ERRC Explained: Codes, Coverage, and Coordination
In this episode of The Coordination Conversation, Andy Smith sits down with Brian Taylor, Director of Low Voltage at Jordan & Skala Engineers, to break down one of the most misunderstood life-safety systems in building design: Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC).
ERRC is often referred to by many names (public safety DAS, two-way radio systems, emergency radio enhancement) but the requirements, enforcement, and implications can vary widely by jurisdiction. In this conversation, we cut through the confusion to explain what ERRC actually is, when it’s required, how codes intersect, and how early planning can prevent costly surprises at the end of a project.
If you’re a developer, architect, or engineer working on mid-rise, high-rise, or urban projects, this episode provides critical insight into how ERRC impacts permitting, construction, and certificates of occupancy.
You’ll learn:
• What ERRC is and why it exists as a life-safety system
• The difference between ERRC, public safety DAS, and cellular DAS
• When ERRC is required versus performance-tested
• How IFC, NFPA 72, and NFPA 1221/1225 work together
• Why backbone survivability drives cost and coordination challenges
• Our three ERRC service approaches
• How early coordination can avoid retrofits, delays, and budget overruns Speakers:
• Andy Smith — President & Licensed Engineer, Jordan & Skala Engineers
• Brian Taylor — Director of Low Voltage, Jordan & Skala Engineers
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
00:29 – What Is ERRC & Why It Exists
04:39 – ERRC vs. DAS vs. Cellular DAS
06:45 – Is ERRC Required in Every Building?
11:28 – How Codes Intersect (IFC, NFPA 72, NFPA 1221/1225)
14:32 – Backbone Survivability & Cost Impacts
19:46 – ERRC Design Options: Advisory, Infrastructure, Full Design
28:34 – Planning Ahead to Avoid Late-Stage Surprises
About Jordan & Skala Engineers (JSE)
We’re a national consulting engineering firm delivering MEP Engineering, Sustainability, and Low Voltage Design—three consultants under one roof—to improve coordination, reduce risk, and deliver better project outcomes.
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Drop it in the comments. #ERRC#PublicSafety#LowVoltageDesign#LifeSafety#FireCode#MEPEngineering#DesignCoordination#AEC
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates. All content is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and information discussed may not apply to your specific circumstances. Viewers should consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions. Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for actions taken based on this content. This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without express written permission.