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Notifying PSAPs During an Outage: How OSPs Can Comply with FCC Regulations

Notifying PSAPs During an Outage: How OSPs Can Comply with FCC Regulations
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FCC rules for notifying PSAPs of service-impacting issues are enforceable as of April 15, 2025. That means originating service providers (OSPs) have to act now to ensure compliance.

The FCC rules state that originating service providers (OSPs) must deliver timely outage notifications using ‘special diligence’ to maintain accurate contact data. Per the order, special diligence – at a minimum – includes updating your contacts at least once a year, and you must make several attempts to get a response during the outreach process. 

Reliable contact details and consistent communication with PSAPs are critical so contingency plans can be quickly shared with neighboring PSAPs and the public. It allows PSAPs to provide alternative means to engage with 911 services and citizens can continue to receive help in their time of need.

Due to the impending enforceability date and the implications of non-compliance, OSPs must act quickly. Intrado’s PSAP Outage Contact List is an FCC-compliant solution that ensures OSPs have flexible access to the most trusted contact data available.

Stringent Data Collection Methodology

Intrado’s PSAP Outage Contact List leverages a biannual, multistage process designed to keep data complete and up to date, removing the burden of collecting and maintaining this information in-house. Multiple communication channels are leveraged, and each attempt is documented. When no response or validation is forthcoming, our team escalates to the local or state 911 authority for resolution.

The Intrado team, comprised of data collection specialists and former PSAP leaders, has been building relationships and adhering to this process for over 20 years. The result is a highly accurate list of contacts within PSAPs across the United States and its territories. With a meticulous approach for validating contact details to meet the FCC requirements and exceeding the special diligence standard, regulatory rules can be met with confidence.

Comprehensive Data and Flexible Access

PSAP Outage Contact List offers flexible data access with two, primary delivery methods:

  • CSV File Delivery: Data is refreshed every two weeks, reflecting updates committed as of the previous day. The files are delivered securely, ensuring data integrity.

  • Automated JSON Solution: Updated daily, this format allows users to query data in real time or perform wholesale updates, enabling seamless integration with existing systems.

These options allow access to the most current information in a way that suits your operational needs, regardless of technical infrastructure or data management preferences. Data includes, but is not limited to: PSAP name, FCC ID, state, service type, and outage notification contact details like name, phone, email, and more.

FCC Compliance OSPs Can Trust

Our steadfast commitment to public safety and thoroughly vetted processes offer a trusted solution to compliance with FCC 22-88. Intrado has been a public safety leader for over 40 years, during which we developed industry’s first text-to-911 solution, built the largest E911 network, and deployed over 1000 NG911 networks. Our in-house regulatory team proactively engages with the FCC and monitors the latest developments, assuring the public safety community and partners can trust our approach to regulatory compliance.

Failing to meet OSP outage notification requirements could result in fines of several thousand dollars per impacted PSAP. With PSAP Outage Contact List, OSPs will receive reliable information to support their operations, minimize risk, and improve responsiveness. To learn more, contact your account management team or use the form on the right to reach out.

 

 

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