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The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is pleased to announce the first exam for the new In-Building Public Safety Communications (IB-PSC) certification program is available now.

IB-PSC Technician Level I is the first of the three progressive technician levels, which along with the single level IB-PSC Design track will establish minimum qualifications for engineering technicians engaged in the detailing and layout, installation, and maintenance, and/or designing of in-building public safety communication systems. The Design track is expected to be available in the coming weeks and Technician Level II and III later in 2021. These emergency responder communications enhancement systems (ERCES) are critical to providing coverage inside buildings and due to their connection with the broader network must be implemented properly to eliminate interference.

While NICET developed the certification program, the Safer Buildings Coalition (SBC), in parallel but independently, is creating the study guide and reference. This collaboration between NICET and SBC is expected to establish the value and credibility of proper training and certification with the goal of increasing competency across all industry stakeholders. Hundreds of practitioners and industry leaders have participated in the initial study, job task analysis, question writing/review process, establishing passing scores, and determining experience and performance requirements. The technical areas covered include knowledge of radio frequency theory, equipment mounting requirements, delivered audio quality scale, business software and mathematics, communications using project specifications and documents, site survey data and design tools, and interpretation and evaluation of surveys. See https://www.nicet.org/IB-PSC

"We are so pleased to be able to partner with NICET in developing this essential credentialing program that finally establishes true qualifications for personnel involved in the design and installation of emergency responder communication enhancement systems (ERCES)," said Chief Alan Perdue, Safer Buildings Coalition's Executive Director. "AHJs, building owners, and the industry as a whole have long sought evidence of competency that goes beyond the FCC General Radiotelephone Operators License (GROL)."

"Launching this new program is due to the efforts of dedicated industry practitioners, subject matter experts, SBC, other stakeholders, and NICET staff," explained NICET Senior Director, Chip Hollis. "It is their effort and flexibility during these challenging times that made it happen. I am honored that NICET can be part of the solution to ensure communications coverage for emergency responders."

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About NICET: The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), a division of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), provides an independent and rigorous evaluation of knowledge and experience among individuals in the fields of engineering technology. Founded in 1961, NICET serves as a respected personnel certification authority in many technical fields; and has certified more than 155,000 technicians and technologists. For more information, please visit www.nicet.org.

About Safer Buildings Coalition: The Safer Buildings Coalition (SBC) is the leading trade association advocating for improved indoor safety through the use of available technology. From our inception before the FCC in February 2012, SBC has been at the forefront advancing ideas, codes and standards to make buildings safer for Public Safety personnel and the public they serve. Our members include Industry, Public Safety, Wireless Carriers, Trade Associations, Building Operators and other End Users. SBC is an independent, 501(c)4 non-profit organization. For more information, please visit www.saferbuildings.org.

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Contact:  Chip Hollis, chollis@nicet.org, 703-548-1518