Code Requirements

Meeting code requirements isn’t optional – it’s essential.

National and regional codes exist to ensure the safety, accessibility, and reliability of critical communication systems during emergencies. Whether it’s enabling life-saving communication in an elevator cab, ensuring public safety in a stairwell, or replacing legacy phone lines with compliant cellular gateways, adherence to code protects both people and property. At AVIRE, we design every solution with code compliance at the forefront. Our products are engineered and tested to meet or exceed applicable regulations. We actively track code updates and make product enhancements to ensure you stay compliant.

See all the codes

Compare codes at a glance

Code Standard	Life Safety	Elevator Safety	Public Safety	Cellular Communications
ADA
ASME A17.1
CSA B44
E911
FCC
IBC/ICC
NFPA 70 (NEC)
NFPA 72
NFPA 101
NFPA 1221/1225
U.S. Pool Phone Laws
UL
UL 2524
UL 2525

ADA

ASME 17.1

CSA B44

E911

FCC

IBC/ICC

NFPA 70 (NEC)

NFPA 72

NFPA 101

NFPA 1221/1225

U.S. Pool Phone Laws

UL

UL 2524

UL 2525

ADA

Code Requirements

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a U.S. civil rights law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It guarantees equal access to public spaces, services, and facilities – including communication systems in buildings – by requiring accessible features like visual indicators, audible signals, hands-free operation, and clear signage.

Who It Affects

Public entities (state and local governments)
Private entities that own, lease, or operate places of public accommodation
Architects and facility designers
Building owners and operators
Contractors involved in new construction or alterations
Any facility required to provide accessible communication features

Current Code Versions

2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Effective Date: March 15, 2012

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are federally enforceable guidelines that define how buildings and communication systems must be designed, constructed, or altered to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. These standards cover features like elevator communication, signage, reach ranges, and visual and audible alerts, ensuring equal access in public and commercial facilities.

Key updates include:

Emergency communication systems must be usable without voice and accessible to individuals with hearing or speech
disabilities.
Elevators and areas of rescue must provide both visual and audible indicators during emergencies.
Operable parts like buttons and emergency controls must be within accessible reach and require minimal force to use.
Tactile characters and Braille are required for elevator controls and accessible route signage.

View PDF

Additional Information

These standards are enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice and apply to state and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities. They are often cross-referenced by other codes such as the IBC and NFPA 101, reinforcing the need for accessible emergency communication systems. Non-compliance can result in legal penalties, loss of occupancy approvals, or civil litigation. AVIRE products that meet these standards help customers ensure building accessibility and public safety.