Fire Protection for Data Centres: Sprinkler System Design and Installation

Why Data Centres Require a Specialised Approach

Data centres are among the most demanding environments for fire protection systems. The value of stored equipment and data, the requirement for continuous operation, and the sensitivity of electronics to water mean that sprinkler system design in these facilities demands specialist knowledge and experience.

At Oskar Sprinkler, we have experience installing fire protection systems in IT facilities across Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, and Germany. We understand how to balance effective protection with minimising the risk of equipment damage.

Fire Hazards in Data Centres

Primary fire hazard sources in data centres include:

• Electrical failures — short circuits, overloads, UPS power supply damage
• Equipment overheating — cooling system failures
• Raised floors — accumulation of cables, dust, and combustible materials
• Batteries — particularly lithium-ion batteries in UPS systems

Pre-Action Systems — The Data Centre Standard

Data centres most commonly use pre-action systems. Unlike traditional wet systems, pipework in pre-action systems is filled with air or nitrogen rather than water.

How Does a Pre-Action System Work?

The system requires dual confirmation of a threat:

• Step 1: A smoke detection system (e.g., VESDA) detects a threat and opens the pre-action valve, filling the pipework with water
• Step 2: Only after sprinkler activation (bulb bursting from heat) does water discharge

This dual barrier minimises the risk of accidental flooding — critical in environments where water damage can rival fire damage.

Advantages of Pre-Action Systems in Data Centres

• Elimination of water leakage risk from damaged sprinkler heads
• Dual threat verification before water release
• Integration capability with early detection systems
• Compliance with IT infrastructure insurer requirements

Installation Challenges in Data Centres

Working in Live Facilities

Installation often takes place in operational facilities, requiring:

• Close coordination with the data centre operator
• Working in access-controlled zones
• Minimising dust and vibration
• Strict adherence to safety procedures

Raised Floors and Suspended Ceilings

Data centres typically feature raised floors and suspended ceilings, demanding:

• Sprinkler installation both above and below suspended ceilings
• Protection of the space beneath raised floors
• Specialised pipework mounting solutions

Standards and Regulations

• EN 12845 — the primary European standard
• EN 50600 — data centre infrastructure standard
• NFPA 75 — Standard for Fire Protection of Information Technology Equipment
• NFPA 76 — Standard for Fire Protection of Telecommunications Facilities
• Insurer requirements (FM Global, VdS)

Complementary Systems

• Gas suppression — FM200, Novec 1230, inert gases (IG-541)
• Water mist systems — lower water usage but requiring specialised installation
• VESDA — very early smoke detection apparatus
• Fire compartmentation — appropriate fire-rated barriers

Conclusion

Data centre fire protection requires specialist knowledge and precision installation. Pre-action systems with smoke detection integration represent the most widely adopted solution. Planning a data centre build or upgrade? Contact Oskar Sprinkler — our team has experience delivering IT infrastructure fire protection projects across Europe.