The possibility of a fire in a server room can be just as disastrous as a fire anywhere else in the building. That is why fire suppression is so significant.
Data centers contain multiple highly valuable computer systems. However, sometimes a business or commercial enterprise is not large enough to warrant having an entire building dedicated to its systems. That’s why many businesses use server rooms instead. However, the possibility of a fire in a server room can be just as disastrous as a fire anywhere else in the building. That is why fire suppression is so significant. Here is a look at some pertinent issues that must be addressed before it is too late.
Faster Airflow
Faster airflow can make a difference. The more that is available, the faster a fire can grow. Airflow is essential for keeping computer systems cool enough to operate without overheating. But even so, fires can still break out, and faster airflow can hamper the efforts of the fire suppression systems whenever they need to activate. Plus, when the air is moving faster, it also disperses the smoke. Without enough concentrated smoke, the fire suppression systems might not be able to detect the right time to turn on. Likewise, clean agent fire suppression systems are highly useful for extinguishing fires in server rooms. But the increased airflow can affect how the suppressants spread out, which means they might not be able to contain the fire at all.
Different Patterns
The direction that the air moves in a server room are also important. Many times, building owners and managers will overlook this simple fact, dismissing it as a non-issue. This can allow the smoke to move in unpredictable ways, rising higher in the hot aisles of your room and sinking in the cold aisles. When smoke plumes form in unusual ways, it can also interfere with the appropriate operation of your fire suppression systems.
Additional Barriers
It is time to think about the type of fire barriers that are installed in commercial server rooms. Fire barriers and FireStop methods are used to help control fires and stop them from spreading. These barriers can also slow down the transmission of heat and smoke. The problem is that they can block the nozzles of clean agent fire suppression systems as well. This means that they might take longer to deal with the fire and allow it to spread out of control.
Fire Protection Services from Fireline
Whether you need smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or an automatic sprinkler system installed at your commercial property, Fireline has you covered. We have been protecting people and property from fire damage since 1947—and our experience shows in our excellent work! We are known for our superb customer service, our expertise, and our reliability. For more information on how we can help your residential or commercial property, visit us online or give us a call at (800) 553-3405. We are located in Baltimore, MD, with a second office in Leesburg, VA. For more fire safety tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.