Austin Association of Facility & Maintenance Engineers

Date/Time
2/19/2026
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Central
Event Registration
Event Type(s)
Training
Event Description

Reliable radio communication for first responders is not a luxury—it’s a life safety requirement. Modern building materials, energy-efficient glass, and dense construction often block radio signals, creating dangerous dead zones during emergencies.

This session breaks down Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) and explains what building owners, engineers, and managers need to know to stay compliant and protect occupants and responders. Attendees will learn:

  • Why ERCES is required under IFC, IBC, and NFPA codes

  • How building materials impact radio signal strength

  • The various acronyms: ERCES, BDA, and DAS 

  • What triggers ERCES requirements in existing buildings

  • The inspection, testing, and approval process with AHJs

  • Common compliance pitfalls and how to avoid them
Presenter:


Brett Weiss is an owner of ICON Fire and Life Safety and has worked in building-related technology since 2000. A long-time member of the Austin Association of Facilities and Maintenance Engineers (AAFAME) since 2003, Brett has served as Chair for numerous committees and has completed multiple terms as Vendor Director. He became actively involved with Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) in 2017 and is known as an ERCES evangelist focused on practical, real-world outcomes for buildings and first responders. Brett regularly teaches ERCES classes to AHJs, architects, developers, general contractors, property managers, and building engineers, helping teams understand requirements, expectations, and common pitfalls from design through acceptance.
 
Location
Norris Conference Center
2525 W. Anderson Lane
behind the Walmart
Austin, TX 78759

Click here for Google Maps
Details

Registration fees:

  • $40.00 for Engineer & Property Manager members
  • $50.00 for Vendor members
  • $65.00 for Guests who are not members (does not apply to vendors on wait list)
  • Walk-ins day of event will be charged $10 late registration fee
  • 48 hour cancellation notice required for refund
Lunch will be provided prior to training class.  Parking is free!
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