The possibility of a fire breaking out in your data center may seem remote, but the truth is unexpected blazes can happen and catch data center managers off guard. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicate that there are over 1.2 million fires in the United States every year. These blazes result in approximately 14,000 civilian injuries, 3,000 civilian deaths, and $10 billion property damage.
Make sure your data center is prepared for the possibility of fire by having the right fire protection service in place. Fire protection services vary widely but mostly depend on your industry. Here are some of the common fire protection services you can seek from a reliable fire protection company.
1. Fire Evacuation Plan
In your data center, you should make sure that you have a fire evacuation plan. Statistics indicate that only 119 businesses (35%) in the U.S. have an evacuation plan. Experienced fire protection companies know that blazes can get you off guard and destroy your computers and other data infrastructures. A fire evacuation plan is a fire protection service that plays a vital role in giving people a chance to escape in case of fire outbreak. An evacuation plan can be used in saving properties from fire inferno.
2. Fire Protection System Design
Another important fire protection service that you need in your data center is the fire protection system design. Naturally, your fire protection layout must meet the specific needs of your business. Some data managers go for ready-made layouts which might not work. You need a reliable fire protection company to customize your fire system design without mistakes while at the same time avoiding unnecessary expenses.
3. System Installation and Replacements
Fire protection system installation and replacement is a major fire protection service you need in your data center. The most important aspect is to ensure that the installation of fire alarm systems follows the prescribed guidelines. There is a standard code of compliance that needs to be followed during fire alarm installations. For the fire system to work, you need to make sure that everything is done during the construction phase. Replacement of fire protection systems is also a factor that you need to consider if your current system is not working.
4. Fire System Upgrades
Fire protection system upgrade is a necessary fire protection service that you need to consider. In your data center, the current fire equipment may wear out, which forces you to upgrade to new systems. Regulations may change and require you to get fire protection upgrades in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association codes. You need a fire protection company that has sufficient knowledge of the latest code requirements and fire safety technology.
5. System Inspection and Maintenance
When the fire system is established on your data facility, you need to keep it running smoothly while at the same time adhering to the fire protection codes. Routine inspection and maintenance are necessary so that you can counter any problems early enough. You need to use existing inspection codes for fire sprinklers, fire suppression systems, and fire alarms. Your system will only work effectively and efficiently if you can administer regular maintenance and inspection when necessary.
6. Fire Protection System Repairs
As noted above, fire alarm inspections and maintenance play a vital role in preventing system breakdowns and malfunctions. However, fire alarm repair should be done when inspections confirm there are problems. Your fire alarm repair should be done within the same day. If possible, seek emergency fire system repair services to avoid a situation where you are left without working fire protection equipment at any given time.
These are some of the fire protection services you will need in your data center. Before you hire any fire protection service, you need to make sure that you are dealing with an experienced, certified, and licensed fire protection company. You cannot gamble with your data facility. Therefore, your fire protection company must be conversant with fire code compliance and life safety.
