Clawson Manor Co-Op Apartments - Public Safety DAS (ERCES)

Client

Clawson Manor Co-op is a fifteen-story, 251-unit high-rise urban senior living community serving a diverse population of seniors who rely on a secure and well-maintained living environment. As part of its renovation and safety efforts, Clawson Manor must comply with stringent emergency radio response signal requirements.

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Challenge

Reliability of emergency radio communication systems is a major safety concern in public buildings, especially in an area as expansive as the Clawson Manor Apartments. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Fire Code (IFC) have set strict standards for emergency radio coverage for new and renovated buildings. The IFC and NFPA require 95% signal coverage in all areas and 99% in critical zones, with a minimum signal strength of -95 dBm. Such standards are in place to protect lives and enable first responders to act quickly during emergencies. 

Upon initial public safety communication survey conducted by WZC Networking, it was found that 77 out of 152 areas surveyed (51%) had weak signals, and only 34% of critical areas had passed the signal benchmarks. 

It was also discovered by the Fire Marshal for the City of Clawson that the building's radio system coverage was significantly below the minimum signal strength required for public safety use. This issue was attributed to the entire exterior being cladded with matter sheeting and low E-coated window glazing, providing a unique challenge for WZC Networking to bring the emergency communications up to code for Clawson Manor Co-op

Solution

Clawson Manor Co-op recognized the importance of complying with the NFPA and IFC regulations, and they sought to partner with a dependable network solution provider. WZC Networking was brought in to enhance signal coverage and achieve full building compliance through advanced RF solutions and expert-driven implementation. ERCES compliance allowed the cooperative to maintain its certificate of occupancy and meet NFPA and IFC standards.

Implementation

WZC Networking conducted a comprehensive public safety communications survey to map existing RF signal strengths throughout the Clawson Manor Co-op Apartments. Advanced diagnostic tools identified 77 out of 152 areas (51%) with weak signal strength, failing to meet the required -95 dBm benchmark. Critical areas, including entrances, emergency exits, and staircases, showed significant gaps, with only 34% meeting NFPA and IFC standards. Test findings informed the precise design and placement of ERCES components.

• An  Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement System (ERCES) was installed, integrating state-of-the-art Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) and strategically placed antennas. Engineered to deliver uniform signal amplification, the system incorporates two-way filtering and precise calibration to overcome the building’s structural challenges. The solution was deployed with minimal disruption to the building’s operations.
• After installation, WZC Networking performed rigorous RF testing throughout the facility using advanced signal measurement equipment, confirming uniform signal distribution.
• The project delivered a significant improvement, raising facility-wide coverage from 51% to 100%. All critical areas meet and exceed public safety communication standards. 

Impact and Testimonial

WZC Networking’s solution enhanced Clawson Manor Co-op’s emergency communication coverage, resolving critical safety vulnerabilities and delivering 100% coverage for the facility’s key areas. The upgraded system improved safety for residents and emergency responders and maintained the facility's compliance with NFPA and IFC safety standards and building requirements.

• 100% of the facility now complies with the -95 dBm signal strength requirement.
• The IFC’s requirement of 95% general coverage and the NFPA’s 99% requirement for critical areas were achieved without exceptions.
• All improvements met the City of Clawson's Office of Fire Marshal requirements.

“The City of Clawson was more than satisfied with the design and installation of the system by WZC Networking and the professional service provided to both the residents of the Clawson Manor and the Clawson Fire/Police and EMS Agencies.”

• John Ruthenbeck, Battalion Chief/Fire Marshal/C.F.I, Clawson Fire Department

“WZC Networking was great to work with on all phases of the project, from initial Grid testing to installation and final inspections of the ERES system. Professionalism, quality, and communication were excellent throughout the entire construction process. We look forward to considering WZCZ Networking for our future communication needs.”

• John Downing, Construction Manager, Clawson Manor Co-op

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