Capitol to Host Safer Buildings Coalition Summit

In the event of a fire or other disaster, reliable communication is essential to saving lives.

Too often, though, first responders face an obstacle: blocked or weak radio signals inside buildings. Such disruptions in communications can place them and building occupants at great risk.

“The problem gets worse the deeper inside a building, in areas like stairwells, elevators, basements, parking garages, and in the building core,” notes John Foley, VP for Operations at the Safer Buildings Coalition (SBC). “The widespread use of certain materials in LEED certified (high energy efficiency) buildings blocks radio signals even more.”

Foley’s organization is working to promote the use of technologies that reinforce radio signals so they can be received throughout a structure.  In some localities, fire codes require buildings to include such technologies, and the SBC is working with stakeholders to make sure the requirement is enforced.

“We’re a not for profit organization that works with the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), the International Code Council (ICC), technology companies, commercial real estate, and government agencies to see these codes are created, adopted and enforced, to provide education for all these stakeholders, and to advocate for safer buildings for occupants and first responders at the level of policy and standards,” Foley notes. “Our mission is essential to protecting life and property. “

On January 24, the SBC will highlight its mission and message at the organization’s annual summit, to be held on the campus of Capitol Technology University.  The university is a perfect setting for the event, Foley says, due to its 319-seat auditorium, exhibit space, audiovisual and technical facilities, on-site catering options, hospitality and networking for guests, and proximity to the Baltimore-Washington metro area.

“As an education-oriented organization, the Safer Buildings Coalition is also excited to be able to include some of the student body in the event, both as learning attendees and as event staff,” Foley said.

“The academic environment sets the right tone for this important work – and the involvement of the students brings a level of mission fulfilment that a more traditional hotel or conference space could not offer. We are excited to host our event at CTU, and we look forward to a very successful experience for our guest, exhibitors, the students, the university, and for the Safer Buildings Coalition,” he said.

Dr. Bradford L. Sims, president of Capitol Technology University, says that events such as the SBC summit are part of the university’s ongoing endeavors to serve the wider community.

“Capitol is known for its focus on engineering and technology, and an important aspect of that is the ability of engineers and technologists to devise solutions that improve the safety and quality of life. Our programs encourage students not only to develop their skills and expertise, but to look at the broader picture – the societal application of what they do,” Sims said.

Want to learn more about the Safer Buildings Coalition? Visit the organization’s website,  e-mail membership@saferbuildings.org, or call  1-888-600-1011.