If you have a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) in your facility, you have likely installed the BDA based on the requirements of your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
It is your responsibility as the building owner to ensure your system continues to meet the emergency radio requirements in order to protect first responders and the people they serve.
We recommend that you ensure your BDA system is connected to or supervised by central station reporting equipment that provides notification to you or the responsible party if any malfunction takes place.
Remember BDAs require annual scheduled inspections and maintenance by a certified provider to make sure your equipment performs as it is designed to and continues to provide reliable communication coverage to emergency responders. Routine maintenance will also ensure that the equipment continues to be compatible with emerging radio network technologies and changes.
Having a properly functioning Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system is critical for the safety of first responders and the people they serve. It is important to remember that the installation of a BDA is only the first step. It is crucial to also maintain the system and ensure it continues to meet the emergency radio requirements as set forth by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
One of the best ways to maintain the proper functioning of your BDA system is to schedule annual inspections and maintenance with a certified provider. During these inspections, the provider will check the equipment for any malfunctions or problems and make any necessary repairs. This routine maintenance will also ensure that the equipment continues to be compatible with emerging radio network technologies and changes.
Another way to ensure the proper functioning of your BDA system is to have it connected to or supervised by central station reporting equipment. This equipment will provide you or the responsible party with notifications if any malfunctions occur, so you can take prompt action to fix the problem.
In conclusion, as a building owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of first responders and the people they serve by maintaining a properly functioning BDA system. If you have any questions or concerns about your BDA system or need to add emergency radio enhancement in your building, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Tech Tips - Make sure your BDA meets emergency responders signal needs
Jun 7, 2021 5:10:57 PM / by Sean Rawlings
Tags: bi-directional amplifier, code requirements, maintenance, certified technician
Written by Sean Rawlings
Sean has a deep commitment and keen passion for all aspects of the life-safety, security, and systems integration world. He has spent a lifetime dedicating his occupational path to the industry and has extensive experience developed from his 18-year career. He officially entered the field as an apprentice technician at 19 and has had a wide range of opportunities, disciplines, and duties throughout his tenure. He joined the team at Absco Solutions in October of 2018. While advancing in his profession, Sean has continually expanded his knowledge and expertise while fulfilling roles of increasing leadership successfully. Sean has been certified in the Installation, Testing, and Service of In-Building ERCES, Honeywell Class B Public Safety Signal Boosters/ BDA since early 2019. In addition to factory certifications from our Solutions Partner Companies; Sean maintains Washington State 06 Specialty Electrician and 06 Administrator licenses and is a Level IV NICET certificate holder.