When a fire hits your building, you must be prepared. To stop flames at their source, many buildings have adopted an automatic sprinkler system in an effort to reduce the amount of damage done to the building, but what about damage done to expensive IT equipment? As companies move to a more technology-based environment, traditional sprinkler systems are proving problematic for protecting IT equipment. Fortunately, there are more effective options.
Today, installing information technology (IT) protection is an essential part of the construction project, including the IT disaster recovery plan. Recovery strategies are based on standards for buildings, hardware, and data protection. The procedures are incorporated into construction design, construction planning and impact analysis. Without the right systems in place, the impact of damage or loss to IT equipment can be very significant. By selecting the right sprinkler system damage can be avoided and controlled.
Traditional Versus Modern Sprinkler Systems
Traditional sprinkler systems work by sending signals to alarm control panels. The panel receives the zone area alert if fire, water or smoke is detected. The actions taken include notifying the external monitoring service, turning off the gas supply and activating the smoke exhausters. Advanced sprinkler systems are capable of providing the exact location of the alert. Newer addressable systems allow you to install more devices to provide a wider range or coverage area. Programmable features allow for door releases, controlled actuations to aid evacuation and delay sprinkler discharges. The evacuation feature for multi-level buildings is part of the building code for some projects.
With the right sprinkler system, you can not only protect your building from fire, but also your IT equipment from fire and water damage. If you need to protect your IT equipment, these 5 tips will help you learn more about your options and allow you to choose the right sprinkler system for your building .
1.) Types of sprinkler systems
Depending on location, building codes, and level of protection required, features and benefits vary. The differences between the systems are time delays, installation and maintenance costs.
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Deluge systems are designed to instantly discharge water over a wide area. This design consists of multiple sensors sending an alert before activating sprinkler systems . The delay is additional protection for IT equipment against false alarms.
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Dry pipe systems work best where freezing temperatures occur. Any exposure to fire opens the value releasing low pressure air allowing water to flow through the system. This release of air delays the discharge of water.
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The pre-action system is a special dry tube design. This system is used in water-sensitive environments housing valuable contents . The pre-action system uses a multi-sensor function to prevent accidental triggering of the fire detection system that activates the sprinklers.
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Wet pipe systems have been the most common. The sprinkler head is sensitive to heat. It uses a check value to send a signal to release water into the system.
Fully irrigated buildings are safer, have lower insurance premiums, and protect your valuables from fires.
2.) Inspections
Regular maintenance and inspection of water systems is essential to protect IT equipment. The biggest problem could be a slow water leak. If left undetected, buildup can cause serious damage. A few drops of water near the equipment can cause a short circuit in electrical systems. The best method to reduce damage is a system that triggers an alert before the water is discharged. Scheduled maintenance reveals small problems that can be repaired and ensures sprinklers and alarm systems are working properly . Routine inspection points should include:
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Internal and external meters
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Proper air and water pressure levels
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Visual examination of sprinklers and piping for wear
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Accurate transmissions to emergency contact points
3.) Programmable Sensors
Once again, advanced technology comes to the rescue. Installing the correct sprinkler system with programmable features helps distinguish between real and false alarms. Not all IT equipment is built to withstand high levels of heat or water damage. If sprinkler systems short out, the heat will quickly intensify, creating higher levels of potential damage. The system program ensures that the correct actions are taken to protect the equipment.
As fire sprinkler systems alert water sensors , the systems are programmed to automatically cut power to IT equipment. The power disconnect command triggers an equipment backup function to protect system data. This programmable feature is a benefit if the condition occurs outside of normal working hours. In case of complete power failure, a backup battery must be installed.
4.) Data center construction
Advances in sprinkler system designs offer a better choice for protecting IT equipment. Sprinkler systems can be customized and adapted to the environment. The aim is to prevent damage to IT equipment, protect building contents and essential data. These water systems offer higher levels of safety for occupants and are cheaper to maintain. Clean agents or inert gases are alternatives as fire suppression.
Both clean agent and inert gas systems require training on handling, maintenance and refills after each discharge. The whole concept of having a sprinkler system is to suppress the fire. Systems can be programmed to release water only when necessary. The process helps reduce potential damage to equipment. Today, the pre-action or dry sprinkler system is most commonly installed.
5.) Building Codes
Building codes and system ordinances are regulated and approved by local authorities. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and local authority have jurisdiction. Failure to comply will lead to insufficient protection, loss of business and heavy fines. In July 1990, the US Congress created the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Its goal is to provide equal access to facilities and services for all Americans with physical disabilities.
Building codes and standards apply depending on where the system is installed and the type of site occupancy. Insurance companies also encourage the correct selection of sprinkler systems. System reliability affects the insurance premium. Working with an experienced installer and engineering firm will ensure systems are compliant.
Key Takeaways
The biggest factor in preventing IT sprinkler damage is recognizing how responsive the system works. Current industry news has proven that sprinklers are extremely protective and cost-effective for design, installation, permits and additional equipment.
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Sprinkler systems are designed to protect the building. Multi-sensor systems have been added to protect equipment.
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Inspection schedules keep your sprinkler system working consistently and reduce the cost of repairs.
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In addition to the property protection benefits, sprinklers reduce infrastructure costs and provide environmental benefits.
If you want more information about automatic sprinkler systems or how to protect your building from fire, our advanced sprinkler system engineering is equipped with all the features to protect your building in the event of a fire. Find out more about our sprinkler system engineering service here and don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.
