Data Center Safety

Site Readiness Planning

Safety must be a primary consideration in planning installation of VSM5 system equip- ment, and is reflected in such choices as where equipment will be located, the rating and capability of electrical, HVAC, and fire-prevention systems that support the operating envi- ronment, and the level of personnel training. Requirements of local authorities and insur- ance carriers will drive decisions as to what constitutes appropriate safety levels in a given environment.

Occupancy levels, property values, business interruption potential, and fire-protection sys- tem operating and maintenance costs should also be evaluated. The Standard for the

Protection of Electronic Computer / Data Processing Equipment (NFPA 75), the Na- tional Electrical Code (NFPA 70), and local and national codes and regulations can be referenced to address these issues.

Emergency Power Control

The data center should be equipped with readily-accessible emergency power- off switch- es to allow immediate disconnection of electrical power from VSM5 system equipment. One switch should be installed near each principal exit door so the power-off system can be quickly activated in an emergency. Consult local and national codes to determine re- quirements for power disconnection systems.

Fire Prevention

The following fire-prevention guidelines should be considered in the construction, mainte- nance, and use of a data center:

•Store gases and other explosives away from the data center environment.

•Ensure data center walls, floors, and ceilings are fireproof and waterproof.

•Install smoke alarms and fire suppression systems as required by local or national codes, and perform all scheduled maintenance on the systems.

Note: Halon 1301 is the extinguishing agent most commonly used for data center fire suppression systems. The agent is stored as a liquid and is discharged as a colorless, odorless, electrically nonconductive vapor. It can be safely dis- charged in occupied areas without harm to personnel. Additionally, it leaves no residue, and has not been found to cause damage to computer storage media.

•Install only shatterproof windows, in code-compliant walls and doors.

•Install carbon dioxide fire extinguishers for electrical fires and pressurized water extin- guishers for ordinary combustible materials.

•Provide flame-suppressant trash containers, and train personnel to discard combustible waste only into approved containers.

•Observe good housekeeping practices to prevent potential fire hazards.

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