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

NFPA 101

Code Requirements

Life Safety Code

NFPA 101, developed by the National Fire Protection Association, provides safety requirements for building construction, protection, and occupancy to minimize the risk of life from fire and related hazards. It includes guidance on emergency egress and requires two-way communication systems in areas of refuge for buildings above a certain height or occupancy level. These systems must support both voice and visual communication. NFPA 101 is referenced by IBC and adopted by local building authorities across the U.S. to enhance occupant safety during emergencies.

Who It Affects

Elevator manufacturers and equipment suppliers
Architects and engineers specifying conveyance systems
Elevator contractors and installers
Maintenance personnel
Building owners and facility managers
AHJs overseeing elevator compliance

Current Code Versions

NFPA 101-2024

The 2024 edition of NFPA 101 introduces updated requirements for emergency planning, egress, carbon monoxide detection, modular room use, and fire protection in various occupancies. It emphasizes integrated life safety strategies for both fire and non-fire emergencies, aligning with evolving technologies and healthcare needs. This version ensures safer building design and occupant protection across commercial, educational, residential, and healthcare facilities.

Key updates include:

Emergency action plans must now address both fire and security-related events.
Up to 75% of exit stairs in sprinklered buildings may discharge through interior spaces.
Carbon monoxide detection is required in more occupancies, including healthcare and educational facilities.
New provisions were added for the safe use of modular rooms and sleep pods.
Guidelines were introduced for temporary healthcare facilities, such as alternate care sites.
Increased allowances for alcohol-based handrub dispensers include spill control and maintenance provisions.
Portable fire extinguishers are now required in new and existing assembly occupancies.

View NFPA 101 Standards Overview

Additional Information

NFPA 101 is often enforced by fire marshals, AHJs, and local building officials and is commonly referenced in state and local fire codes. It works in tandem with NFPA 72, ADA, and the IBC to ensure that occupants who cannot use stairs during an emergency – such as those in wheelchairs – have access to code-compliant two-way communication systems in designated areas. These systems must operate independently from the building’s main power supply, include visual and audible indicators, and enable communication with emergency personnel. Compliance is especially important in healthcare facilities, educational institutions, multi-story commercial buildings, and other high-occupancy environments.