Installation Requirements
Two-Way Communication
Emergency lift phones must enable uninterrupted two-way voice communication.
Communication must connect directly to a permanently attended location, such as:
MDF (Main Distribution Frame) Room
IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame) Room
Building Manager’s Office
Lift shafts are generally not considered permanently attended locations.
Power Supply Backup
Systems must remain operational during power outages with a backup power supply lasting at least two hours.
Backup systems should alert the monitoring location if power capacity drops below one hour.
Secondary Communication Path
A secondary pathway is mandatory if the primary system may fail during power outages. Options include:
Cellular (4G/5G) connectivity
NBN-based connections (e.g., TC-4 service)
Compliance with IPND Requirements
Emergency lift phones must comply with Integrated Public Number Database (IPND) regulations to ensure accurate location data is available during emergencies(C555_2020).
Compliance Guidelines
Regulatory Standards
Systems must meet Australian standards such as AS 1735.12 for lift operations and safety.
Compliance with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and Telecommunications Act is mandatory.
Licensed Cablers
Only licensed professionals should install or modify lift phone communication systems.
Certification of compliance must be issued upon completion.
Inspection and Validation
Validate new installations for operational safety before use.
Conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance and functionality.
Migration to Digital Systems
As legacy copper networks are phased out:
Transition to digital systems such as NBN or cellular networks with robust secondary backup options.
Collaborate with lift service providers to identify the most suitable migration path.
Best Practices for Building Managers
Collaborate with Professionals: Work with lift service and telecommunications providers to ensure compliance and uninterrupted service.
Testing and Maintenance: Regularly test systems post-installation and during scheduled maintenance.
Record-Keeping: Maintain detailed records of installations, inspections, and maintenance activities.
By following these guidelines, building managers and stakeholders can ensure emergency lift phones are reliable, compliant, and effective during critical situations.