Enterprise Data Center Design and Methodology

From the very earliest design phases of the data center, the most important concern in disaster avoidance and recovery is for human health and safety. Equipment is important, but it always comes second to people.

Manual controls for various data center support systems should be conveniently located. Controls for fire, HVAC, power, abort or silence, and an independent phone line should be grouped by appropriate doorways. All controls should be clearly labeled, and concise operating instructions should be available at each station.

Keep the following human safety guidelines in mind when planning the data center.

• Keep room personnel to the absolute minimum

• Authorized personnel should be trained to respond to emergency situations

• Monitor air quality in the room

• Ensure that personnel are able to exit the room or building efficiently

• Avoid blockages and doors that won't open easily from the inside

• Avoid long rows of racks or equipment with no breaks

• Clearly mark fire extinguishers and position them at regular intervals in the room

• Clearly mark first aid kits and position them at regular intervals in the room