Life Safety: First Responder Radio Testing

JDRM Engineering is an Independent First Responder Radio Testing Consultant.

JDRM follows the 2024 Ohio Building Code (OBC) and test to the latest standards of NFPA 1221. The Ohio Fire Code (OFC) requires all new buildings and remodeled buildings to be tested for First Responder Radio Signal. The code now allows fire code officials to enforce this code in existing structures they know that the public safety radio coverage does not work.

When do buildings need to be tested?

Anytime a building is constructed or any modifications and expansions are done to the building.

How often do buildings need First Responder Radio Testing?

If a bidirectional amplification (BDA) is added to the building to enhance the signal the system must be tested ANNUALLY.

What happens if a building fails a first responder radio test?

JDRM can recommend a reliable partner to design a bidirectional system that meets code compliance. This type of amplification system will be required to be tested annually. JDRM will assist with this annual test.

The Ohio Building Code Section 918

Requires, “Emergency responder radio coverage shall be provided in all new buildings in accordance with section 510 of the fire code.” JDRM uses PCTEL’s public safety network testing solutions and has a PCTEL certified public safety tester with 40+ years’ experience on staff.