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

IBC/ICC

Code Requirements

International Building Code / International Code Council

The International Building Code (IBC) is a model building code developed by the International Code Council (ICC). It provides minimum safety standards for the design and construction of buildings, including requirements for emergency communication systems, accessible means of egress, and areas of refuge. The IBC is adopted by most U.S. jurisdictions and often references other standards such as ADA, NFPA 72, and ASME A17.1 to guide compliance.

Who It Affects

Architects and building designers
General contractors and construction managers
Code consultants and compliance officers
Electrical and low-voltage contractors
Building owners responsible for new construction or renovation
AHJs reviewing construction documents for code compliance

Current Code Versions

IBC 2021 (most widely adopted) 
IBC 2024 (latest edition, adoption timelines vary by jurisdiction)

The IBC 2021 edition reinforces emergency communication requirements in areas of refuge, stairwells, and elevators. It mandates two-way communication systems that are accessible to individuals with disabilities and aligns closely with ADA, NFPA 72, and ASME A17.1 standards. This version is the most widely adopted by U.S. jurisdictions as of now.  

The IBC 2024 introduces refinements to accessibility and emergency communication requirements, including enhanced integration of visual and auditory alerts and updates to system performance expectations. It continues to align with evolving federal standards like the ADA and NFPA, with added clarity on multi-tenant and high-rise applications. Adoption is in progress across jurisdictions.

Key updates include:

Emergency two-way communication is required in areas of refuge for buildings with inaccessible floors.
Areas of refuge must include signage, visual indicators, and hands-free communication devices.
The code clarifies how elevator emergency communication must align with ASME A17.1 and ADA requirements.
Strengthened alignment with NFPA 72 and ADA 2010 Standards to ensure consistent life safety design.
Additional accessibility provisions for high-rise buildings and multi-tenant facilities.

View IBC Codes

Additional Information

The IBC is updated every three years and serves as the foundation for most state and local building codes in the United States. Compliance with the IBC is required for new construction and major renovations, and it is often used in conjunction with related codes from ADA, NFPA, and ASME to ensure integrated life safety systems. Emergency communication requirements outlined in the IBC apply to buildings with elevators, stairwells, and designated areas of refuge – especially in high-rise and multi-occupancy structures.