A Communication Need

THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

Now being enforced, requires a Rescue Assistance System in all newly constructed multi-story commercial buildings and public accommodations to provide a means to request evacuation assistance in emergencies. The ADA also applies to significant renovations of existing multi-story facilities.

CALL STATIONS TO REQUEST ASSISTANCE

Highly intuitive, vandal-resistant call stations are typically placed in each stairwell or adjacent to the elevators to provide hands-free emergency voice communication at the press of a button. A tone and flashing light assure the caller their call for help has been received, and a voice confirmation response assures them help is on the way.

CALLS ARE COMMUNICATED TO A MASTER PANEL OR TO OFFSITE EMERGENCY RESPONSE CENTERS

When the call is activated it is indicated on the master panel—typically located near the building entrance, Fire Alarm Panel or in the Security office. Some buildings will mount additional panels at secondary building entrances (or at all entrances). The person hearing the tone selects the alarm zone calling for assistance, talks to the caller and indicates when help will arrive. If the call is not responded to in a time set by the system, the call is forwarded to an offsite 911 emergency response center.

A 24VDC POWER SUPPLY

The system is centrally powered with a battery backup to ensure operation in times of emergency.

CABLING

Custom cabling is available in plenum and non-plenum styles, along with Fire Resistant Cable for the 4200-analog system.

AREA OF RESCUE SIGNAGE

ADA-compliant signage is required in three forms:

• Directional signs to show the way to the alarm station and safe refuge area
• Lighted Room Location signs to identify the refuge area
• Instruction signs indicating how to operate the alarm station to call for assistance