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

Code Requirements

Two-Way Emergency Communications Systems for Rescue Assistance

UL 2525 is the safety standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories for two-way emergency communication systems used in areas of rescue assistance. It ensures these systems are durable, reliable, and safe for use during emergencies – especially by individuals who cannot evacuate a building on their own. UL 2525 applies to hardware and systems used in stairwells, areas of refuge, and elevator lobbies in multi-story buildings.

Who It Affects

Manufacturers of two-way emergency communication systems for areas of rescue
System designers specifying code-compliant communication solutions
Electrical and low-voltage contractors responsible for installation and wiring
Life safety and fire protection engineers
Building owners and developers of multi-story or high-occupancy facilities
AHJs reviewing and approving life safety systems for occupancy
Facilities managers maintaining emergency communication systems

Current Code Versions

UL 2525 – First Edition (Published in 2020)

This edition defines the performance, construction, and testing requirements for two-way emergency communication systems used in rescue assistance areas. It includes tests for power supply integrity, audio clarity, visual indicators, wiring configurations, and environmental resilience.

Key updates include:

Established a standardized certification for area of rescue two-way communication systems.
Requires systems to include both audible and visual indicators for call initiation and confirmation.
Mandates battery backup for continued operation during power loss.
Ensures hands-free communication and proper call prioritization.
Introduces environmental and durability testing for reliable use in real-world building conditions.

View UL 2525 Standards

Additional Information

UL 2525 is referenced in NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and IBC, and its certification is often required by AHJs to demonstrate code compliance. It provides assurance that systems used in stairwells, elevator lobbies, and other designated refuge areas will operate effectively during an emergency. AVIRE’s two-way communication products for rescue assistance areas are designed and tested to meet or exceed UL 2525 standards, ensuring dependable performance when lives depend on it. Use of UL 2525-listed systems can streamline approvals and reduce delays during inspections or occupancy certification.