B2B Services — ERCES Project Workflow
End-to-End ERCES/BDA Project Services for Licensed Contractors & Integrators
Sentinel Public Safety Systems partners with licensed fire alarm contractors, low-voltage integrators, and general contractors to deliver fully compliant ERCES and BDA in-building public safety systems. We supply the equipment and the technical workflow — from initial signal survey through final AHJ closeout and ongoing monitoring.
All projects follow our proven 9-step process, designed to meet IFC Section 510, NFPA 1221, and local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements.
Our 9-Step B2B Project Workflow
Step 1 — Signal Survey
A licensed RF technician conducts a comprehensive signal survey of the building to measure existing public safety radio signal strength across all required frequency bands (700 MHz, 800 MHz, UHF, VHF). Survey data establishes the baseline for system design and is documented for AHJ submission.
Step 2 — System Design
Based on survey results, our engineers produce a full system design including donor antenna placement, BDA/amplifier specifications, signal distribution layout (couplers, splitters, tappers, cable runs), and coverage maps. Design documents are stamped and ready for permit submission.
Step 3 — Permit Submission
We prepare and submit the complete permit package to the local AHJ and fire marshal — including system drawings, equipment cut sheets, frequency coordination documentation, and the signal survey report. Sentinel handles all correspondence with the reviewing authority.
Step 4 — Revisions
If the AHJ requests design revisions or additional documentation, we turn around updated drawings and resubmit promptly. We track all revision cycles and maintain a complete permit history for each project.
Step 5 — Permit Approval
Upon receiving written permit approval from the AHJ, we issue a notice to proceed for installation. No equipment is ordered or installed prior to written approval — protecting your license and the building owner's certificate of occupancy.
Step 6 — Installation
Equipment is staged, kitted, and delivered to the job site. Your installation crew installs per the approved drawings. Sentinel provides technical support throughout installation, including field questions on cable routing, connector termination, and component placement.
Step 7 — Testing & Commissioning
Post-installation, a licensed RF technician performs full system commissioning — including signal level measurements at all required test points, BDA gain adjustment, and verification that coverage meets the AHJ-required signal strength thresholds throughout the building. A complete test report is generated.
Step 8 — AHJ Closeout
We prepare and submit the closeout package to the AHJ — including the commissioning test report, as-built drawings, equipment cut sheets, and any required regulatory signage documentation. We coordinate the final inspection walkthrough and address any punch-list items.
Step 9 — Monitoring & Maintenance
Post-acceptance, Sentinel offers ongoing system monitoring and annual testing services to maintain code compliance. As building use changes or frequencies are updated by the jurisdiction, we provide modification assessments and re-commissioning as needed.
Who We Work With
Our B2B services are available exclusively to licensed fire alarm contractors, low-voltage systems integrators, general contractors with licensed subcontractors, and building owners working with a licensed installer.
Get Started
Ready to scope a project or request a signal survey? Contact our team with your building address, square footage, occupancy type, and target jurisdiction. We'll respond within one business day.