When it comes to building safety, being prepared for emergencies is crucial. The addressable SmartCommand system from RATH™ by AVIRE is making rescue assistance for trapped building occupants more efficient and reliable. Reflecting its commitment to the highest levels of safety and compliance, the system is fully compliant with NFPA 72® 2022, IBC, and ADA standards and conforms to UL 2525 standards for two-way communication systems.
This blog will walk you through what makes the SmartCommand system an excellent choice for buildings such as university campuses, high-rise towers, office buildings, hospitals, hotels, and more.
What is the SmartCommand System?
SmartCommand is a two-way communication system for rescue assistance designed to establish communication between trapped building occupants and emergency personnel. It uses an efficient daisy-chained setup that connects up to 128 call boxes and is designed to accommodate four separate 2000 ft loops. This means you can easily link multiple call boxes together with less wiring, simplifying installation and lowering costs.
Key Features and Benefits
- Easy Installation: The SmartCommand system is designed with centralized programming, use of a laptop allows for quick, efficient set-up. In addition to the simplified programming, the daisy-chain configuration speeds up installation in comparison to traditional home run systems.
- Advanced Monitoring: With 360° supervision, the system continuously checks itself to make sure everything is working correctly. If there’s a problem, it’s detected and a notification is sent to the fire alarm control panel via a relay output so issues can be resolved quickly.
- Reliable Communication: The system provides hands-free communication through SmartCommand call boxes. These are located in designated areas throughout the building, allowing trapped occupants to contact emergency services directly from their location. The system provides location information and prioritizes calls based on the order they are received for ease of dispatch from the monitoring station or on-site Call Commander.
Safety and Compliance
- Compliance: Not only is the system designed to meet the requirements for NFPA 72® 2022, IBC, and ADA, but also fully conforms to the UL 2525 standard (up to 32 call boxes, 128 pending).
- Pathway Integrity: Pathway survivability requirements state all circuits remain survivable for at least the same time as the fire rating of the building. RATH™ by AVIRE offers 2 Hour Fire-Rated Cable (sold separately) to meet these fire rating requirements that operate in high temperatures and remain fully operational for safe evacuation of building occupants.
- Battery Backup: The system is equipped with a battery backup that lasts for 24 hours on standby and provides 4 hours of active use during emergencies as required by NFPA 72® 2022. This ensures the system remains operational even if there’s a power failure.
- Signage: Signs are an integral part to quickly direct a person into action and ensure that no matter what the situation or emergency, instructions are always understood. Code requirements state that 4 types of proper signage (directions for Call Box Use, Illuminated, Door, and Directional) must be visible to direct individuals to these safe locations.
- Visible and Audible Indications: Each call box audibly and visually indicates when a call has been placed.
The RATH™ by AVIRE addressable SmartCommand system is a major step forward in two-way communication for rescue assistance technology. Its ease of installation and robust features make it an excellent choice for keeping building occupants safe and ensuring that occupants can communicate effectively during emergencies. The SmartCommand system offers a reliable and advanced solution that provides peace of mind and meets current safety standards.
For more information about the full suite of offerings of two-way communication systems, or to get started on your project, contact RATHTM by AVIRE today.