Focus: Fire-Life Safety / Column

Regulations, Codes & Standards Q&A: Exit enclosure antenna

Brad Keyes discusses regulations for an exit exclosure antenna

By Brad Keyes / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today


 

Q: I have been reading about stairwells and what the code addresses. I am interpreting that the AHJ's are stringent of what can be placed in a stairwell. Is it permissible to install wireless access points (antenna) in the stairwell? We have no phone coverage in the stairwells because of the absence of these antennas. I believe without phone coverage creates a safety issue. If an emergency would arise in the stairwell we do not have access to contact anybody.

A: Well… section 7.1.3.2.1 (10)(b) of the 2012 LSC does say electrical conduits serving the exit enclosure are permitted to penetrate the exit enclosure, but the Annex section clarifies that the only electrical conduits permitted to penetrate the exit enclosure are those serving equipment permitted in the exit enclosure, such as security equipment, PA systems, and fire department emergency communication devices. Wireless access point antennas typically are not considered essential equipment in the stairwells and does not meet the intent of the list identified in the Annex section.

While you may get a local AHJ to approve such an installation, I think you will have trouble with national AHJs for accreditation. I suggest you install your antennas outside of the stairwell.

Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.

 

 



November 28, 2018


Topic Area: Regulations, Codes & Standards


Recent Posts

Texas Law Limits Backup Power Mandates for Senior Care Facilities

As Texas relaxes generator mandates, healthcare facility managers now face tough decisions about emergency power investments and resident safety.


Cyber Crossfire: Why Healthcare Is Becoming a Battleground in Global Conflicts

As geopolitical tensions escalate, hospitals and critical suppliers are increasingly targeted in cyberattacks.


UPMC Presbyterian Receives $65 Million Gift for New Bed Tower

The tower is projected to open for patient care in early 2027.


Premier Health Partners Falls Victim to Cyber Incident

The incident occurred in July 2023.


Backup Power's Expanding Role in Emergency Preparedness for Healthcare

Manufacturers discuss design strategies, code shifts and lessons learned from real-world disasters.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.