{"id":13260,"date":"2026-01-09T11:15:40","date_gmt":"2026-01-09T16:15:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.avire-global.com\/en-us\/articles\/?p=13260"},"modified":"2026-01-09T11:15:41","modified_gmt":"2026-01-09T16:15:41","slug":"what-to-expect-in-building-safety-communications-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.avire-global.com\/en-us\/articles\/what-to-expect-in-building-safety-communications-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect in Building Safety & Communications in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
As 2026 begins, building safety and communications are entering a new era. The industry is being shaped by rapid advancements in technology, evolving safety regulations, and increased expectations for integrated, reliable systems. Staying ahead of these trends is essential for anyone responsible for building safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year will be defined by smarter technology, stronger integration between systems, heightened cybersecurity requirements, and a renewed focus on sustainability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are the top five trends you should be preparing for now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. AI-Driven Predictive Maintenance Expands Beyond Elevators<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technology are no longer limited to predictive maintenance in elevators. These tools are now being applied to life safety communication systems, public safety distributed antenna systems (DAS), and two-way emergency communication networks throughout buildings. AI-based monitoring can detect irregularities before they become system failures, reducing downtime, preventing costly repairs, and improving overall safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to prepare:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Stricter Code Compliance Across Multiple Building Systems<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Building codes are being updated at both the national and local level. Requirements in ASME A17.1, International Building Code (IBC), NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and UL 2525 are driving changes in how emergency communication systems, public safety DAS, and cellular gateways are designed and installed. In 2026, inspectors will be focusing more on interoperability between systems, testing procedures, and redundancy to ensure occupant safety.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to prepare:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. Integrated, Multi-Platform Communication for Smarter Buildings<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern buildings require seamless communication between multiple safety systems. In-car elevator communication, lobby and machine room systems, public safety DAS, and cellular gateways need to work together as one connected network. This integration improves emergency response times, simplifies inspections, and allows facility managers to oversee all safety systems from a single platform.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to prepare:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Cybersecurity as a Core Safety Requirement<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As building safety systems become more connected, they are also more vulnerable to cyber threats. Public safety DAS, IP-based elevator communication systems, and wireless emergency devices must be secured to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. Cybersecurity is now a mandatory consideration during system design and procurement, not just an IT concern.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to prepare:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Sustainability in Safety and Communication Systems<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Energy efficiency and sustainability are becoming key purchasing factors for building safety equipment. Low-power operation, recyclable materials, and products designed for long service life help reduce both environmental impact and operational costs. As ESG reporting gains traction, building owners are expected to\u00a0demonstrate\u00a0sustainable practices in all systems, including emergency communications.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to prepare:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2026, success in building safety and communications will depend on more than just meeting regulations. The most prepared buildings will adopt smarter technologies, integrate multiple systems into a single management platform, secure devices from cyber threats, and operate with sustainability in mind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you manage a high-rise office tower, a healthcare facility, a university campus, or a mixed-use development, now is the time to evaluate your systems and align them with these emerging trends. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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