What is a Two-Way Communication System, or as otherwise known as Area of Refuge (AOR)?

As per NFPA 1031.8, two-way communication systems for areas of refuge shall be inspected and tested on a yearly basis to verify that all components are operational. Where and if required, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of the fire code official. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.

NFPA 1031.8 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require that all public-accessible buildings include design features to support people with disabilities. But what if there is a fire emergency? Evacuation plans are usually designed for speedy, orderly exits–and often aren’t easily accessible to those with disabilities.

That makes areas of Two-Way Communication System, or as otherwise known as Area of Refuge (AOR)refuge, or AORs, critical for any fire safety plan. Any structure, whether commercial, industrial, residential, or educational, must have at least one AOR.

Building owners should know how to implement an area of refuge plan that complies with applicable codes and regulations and ensures the safety of all building occupants.

Stairs Don’t Work for Everyone

We’ve all seen the signs: “During a fire, don’t use the elevator, use the stairs.” But what about those who can’t?

Elevators deliberately go out of service during a fire. But if tenants can’t use the stairs to evacuate the building, they’ll need another option. Areas of refuge ensure people with disabilities can quickly move to a designated safe space without impediment. From there, they can call to obtain evacuation assistance.

How to Create an Area of Refuge

Buildings come in different sizes, heights, and configurations. Some have sprinklers throughout, others don’t. Requirements for areas of refuge vary to reflect these differences, based on building codes and fire safety standards set by multiple agencies. Specifically, the type of sprinkler system (full vs. partial protection) affects AOR requirements.

However, in all cases, an area of refuge must provide:

• Adequate space on every floor above or below the building’s exit level, reachable within 200 feet. This means larger buildings with higher occupancies typically need multiple AORs on each floor.
• Two-way communication devices with battery backup, placed within AORs and at elevator banks. These can help people call off-site for evacuation assistance.
• Signage that shows each AOR’s location and how to get there, states “AREA OF REFUGE” at the door, and explains how to call for assistance.

Peace of Mind for Owners, Tenants, and Visitors

Area of refuge requirements can be complex—and the details matter. One commonly overlooked part is the two-way communication system. It's code-required NFPA 1031.8, but it's also easy to forget until an inspection flags it (or until there's an emergency and it doesn't work).

Building managers often don’t discover a device failure until an inspection. By then, the system could have been down for months. AOR communication systems need regular maintenance to catch failures early. It keeps you code-compliant, helps protect your tenants, and takes one more thing off your plate.

If you're not sure whether your building's AOR communication system is up to code, or whether it's been tested recently, that's a good place to start. Brothers Fire & Security has the expertise to help create appropriate safe spaces, install the right equipment, and handle ongoing support to ensure you are fully prepared for a fire emergency. Don't leave your occupants' safety to chance—contact Brothers Fire & Security today to schedule an inspection and ensure your Area of Refuge system is ready when it matters most.