What Is an Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS) and Why NYC Buildings Need One
When it comes to life safety in New York City, fast and reliable communication can mean the difference between containment and catastrophe. That’s why the FDNY now requires Auxiliary Radio Communication Systems (ARCS) in many new high-rise buildings—and why building owners and developers must understand how these systems work, when they’re required, and who to trust with their installation.
At IRL Systems, we specialize in the design, installation, and maintenance of ARCS systems that meet all FDNY codes and pass inspection the first time.
What Is an ARCS?
An Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS) is a wireless communication system designed to allow FDNY first responders to maintain radio contact throughout a building during an emergency—especially in complex structures like high-rises or large commercial facilities where radio signals can degrade or drop entirely.
The system includes:
- A radio base station (typically located in the building lobby or fire command center)
- Bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) and distributed antennas to ensure full coverage
- Battery backup and monitoring panels for 24/7 system integrity
These systems ensure that firefighters, EMS, and other emergency personnel can communicate effectively even in areas where concrete, steel, and glass would normally block or weaken signals.
“In high-rise emergencies, clear communication saves lives. ARCS keeps first responders connected from the rooftop to the basement.”
Why Did NYC Make ARCS Mandatory?
Following the communication breakdowns during 9/11, New York City revised its building and fire codes to prioritize radio coverage in tall and complex buildings. Local Law 26 and related amendments now require ARCS in most newly constructed high-rise buildings and certain major renovations.
Without ARCS, first responders may lose signal in stairwells, basements, or behind thick concrete walls—creating dangerous blind spots during evacuations or search and rescue operations.
Which Buildings Require ARCS?
According to FDNY and NYC DOB requirements, you must install an ARCS system if your building meets any of the following criteria:
- It is a new high-rise building or vertical expansion
- It is undergoing a major alteration that affects life safety systems
- The DOB plan examiner specifically requires ARCS based on your occupancy classification and height
The system must be installed by an FDNY-approved vendor (like IRL Systems), tested with proper radio frequency (RF) mapping, and approved before a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued.
How Does ARCS Work During an Emergency?
Let’s say there’s a fire on the 17th floor of a residential high-rise. FDNY crews arrive and enter the stairwell—but the concrete and steel interfere with their radio signal. Without ARCS, their radios may drop, creating a dangerous communication gap between teams on the ground and those on the fire floor.
With ARCS, the system captures their radio signal through a rooftop antenna, amplifies it, and redistributes it via internal antennas and cabling—ensuring a seamless, reliable communication path.
“ARCS gives first responders the real-time connection they need when seconds matter most.”
Why Work with IRL Systems?
IRL Systems is a licensed and FDNY-approved ARCS installer serving all five boroughs of NYC. We handle everything from initial RF testing and system design to installation, DOB filing, FDNY inspection prep, and system maintenance.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Code-compliant designs built for FDNY approval
- Experienced coordination with filing engineers and architects
- Turnkey project management from start to finish
- No long-term service contracts—just dependable, transparent work
- 24/7 inspection-ready reporting
We’ve helped dozens of NYC buildings navigate ARCS compliance smoothly—and we’re here to help you, too.
Call Today to Schedule an ARCS Consultation
Whether you’re working on new construction or facing an FDNY inspection deadline, IRL Systems is ready to design and install an ARCS that meets all NYC requirements—and helps protect your building when it matters most.
📞 Call IRL Systems today at (718) 491-0642 for a complimentary consultation.
FAQ: Auxiliary Radio Communication Systems (ARCS)
Q: What’s the difference between ARCS and a BDA system?
A: ARCS is specific to NYC and FDNY requirements and includes a base station and internal infrastructure designed for FDNY radio frequencies. A BDA (bi-directional amplifier) is a component of the ARCS system.
Q: How long does ARCS installation take?
A: Depending on your building’s size and construction phase, installation typically takes 2–6 weeks, including testing and filing.
Q: Is ARCS required for existing buildings?
A: Generally no, unless the building is undergoing major renovation or a change in occupancy type that triggers new code requirements.
