The Design and Organization of Data Centers/Fire Protection

Fire alarms systems are designed to detect and notify building occupants of a possible fire condition, so that proper reactive steps can be taken.

Some examples of fire alarm equipment include the following:
 * Smoke Detectors
 * Heat Detectors
 * Beam Detectors
 * Pull Stations
 * Sprinkler System Monitoring Equipment
 * Audible and/or Visual Notification Appliances

Sprinkler systems
Water and computers don't mix. A damaged sprinkler head will spray water regardless of a fire, and smoke detectors can be set off by dust.

Avoid sprinkler systems that hold water, instead use a pre-action sprinkler system, preferably a double-interlocked pre-action system. With a double-interlocking pre-action valve, water is prevented from entering the sprinkler piping until two different kinds of heat/smoke detecting devices trigger the valve to open. The typical devices used are pneumatic actuation by a sprinkler head activating and releasing pressurized air stored in the piping and an electric actuation from heat or smoke detectors.

Halon
Not used any more

Energen
More expensive, but free refills, non-toxic

May require separate under-floor nozzles, and ceiling tiles restrained with clips.

Fire Extinguishers
Special fire extinguishers

Low residue

Expensive

Power and Air conditioning issues
Emergency shut off for power and air conditioning

Very Important stuff.
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