S 1.24 Avoidance of water pipes

Initiation responsibility: Head of IT, Building Services Manager

Implementation responsibility: Building Services, Administrator

In rooms or areas containing IT devices with primary functions (such as servers), the installation of all types of pipes carrying water should be avoided. The only pipes transporting water in these areas should be cooling water pipes, extinguishing water pipes, and heating pipes, and only if absolutely necessary. Supply lines to radiators should be equipped with shut-off valves, located outside of the room or area, if possible. These valves should be closed when the heating period is over.

If water-carrying pipes cannot be avoided, precautions must be taken to ensure escaping water is detected as early as possible to minimise the negative consequences. A water collection pan or a water drain gutter discharging the water out of the room can be installed under the pipe to provide minimal protection. It is best to install water pipes in the corridor since this enables fast detection of any damage to the pipes. Experience has shown that painting the ceilings with a light colour makes it easier to quickly detect major water leaks and leaky pipes. The existing water pipes must be subjected to regular visual inspections for any leakage.

Consideration should be given to monitoring all water pipes using water detectors. Special alarm cables can be installed underneath the pipes. When connected to a water alarm system, it is possible to quickly detect a water leak and localise it quite precisely. The alarm signals from such a system must be sent to a constantly manned location to enable a fast reaction using corresponding response plans and current documentation. As an option, water detectors with automatic shut-off solenoid valves can be installed. These solenoid valves must be installed outside of the room or area to be protected. In order for the valves to fulfil their protective function during a power failure, they must be closed when no power is supplied (normally closed valve).

An automatic drainage system is also recommended as an additional or alternative safeguard (see S 1.14 Automatic drainage).

All employees in the IT department and in building services should be informed that water pipes in parts of the building containing IT systems with high-availability requirements can cause problems, and they should also be told what to look out for. Response plans should be available describing which safeguards should be taken in case of water leaks.

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