An area of refuge, or area of rescue, is a concept established to provide a safe means of egress for handicapped persons that may not be able to exit a building safely on their own. This is addressed and required under the International Building Code (IBC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Areas of Refuge are required on any building with multiple floors, on every floor which is either above or below the ground floor.
IBC, NFPA and ADA Requirements for Areas of Refuge
Under the most recent IBC 2018 code requirements, an Area of Refuge is required in all new construction and in buildings which underwent significant remodels or had a change of building use. These requirements now apply to all buildings whether or not a sprinkler system is in place.
The Areas of Refuge must provide a smoke and fire protected area where people who are unable to use the stairs can call for help to await evacuation assistance from first responders. These areas must provide direct access to an exit stairway and may be located near stairway enclosures or landings with minimum exit width to accommodate a wheelchair.
Requirements of an Area of Refuge include:
● Identification with a sign that includes the term “AREA OF REFUGE” with the International Symbol of Accessibility (ISA)
● Location on every floor above or below the ground floor and clearly marked
● Two-way communication system to a central control point within the building
● Central control point must be staffed 24 hours per day to receive communications or directed to a location that is staffed 24 hours per day
● Communication systems must provide hands-free, two-way communication with visible and audible signals to indicate communication has occurred
● Communication systems must signal the location to the receiver
Jeron Life Safety Communication Solutions for Area of Refuge
Jeron Electronic Systems, Inc. has been a leader in designing quality life safety products and nurse call stations since 1965. Jeron is based near Chicago, IL, with a commitment to designing and manufacturing high-quality products which are “Made in the USA”. For over 50 years, Jeron continually develops new solutions as technology advances.
Jeron’s life safety communications include the Pro Alert 480, a two-way communication solution for Area of Rescue assistance. Jeron helps you meet fire code requirements and keeps your occupants safe with a robust two-way communication system that fulfills all ADA, IBC and NFPA requirements. The Pro-Alert 480 provides off-site calling through the facility’s PBX and comes with simplified wiring for easier installation and maintenance.
HRSS Provides Area of Rescue Solutions and Compliance
High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire, life and safety system company with vast expertise in all code regulations including ADA, IBC and NFPA as well as all city of Chicago code requirements. We offer solutions to building owners, managers and contractors with high-quality, life safety equipment, system design, maintenance and monitoring. HRSS responds quickly to our customers’ needs with a full staff of factory trained field technicians and NICET certified staff.
HRSS offers experienced fire and life safety system solutions to commercial buildings of any size. We are committed to saving lives with fire and life safety systems that meet all code regulations and go above and beyond to maximize safety in your unique structure. Contact us to learn more about our dedicated service and quality products, including the Jeron two-way communication solution for Area of Refuge requirements.
This article was originally published at: https://hrsschicago.com/fire-and-safety-services/fire-safety-consultants/area-of-refuge-what-you-need-to-know-for-compliance/
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