One item that often seems to be in question when it comes to information technology closets is whether these rooms must be contained with fire-rated barriers, according to an article on the FaciltyCare website.
According to the 2000 Life Safety Code (LSC), there are no requirements to do so simply because they are small rooms with electronic equipment inside. But there are exceptions that may apply, the article said.
If the area of the room is greater than a certain square footage and combustibles are being stored inside, then the room must comply with section 18/19.3.2.1 for hazardous areas.
If the IDF rooms were built after 3/11/2003, larger than 100 square feet, and if combustibles are stored inside, then the walls must be 1-hour rated and extend from the floor to the deck above. The door to the room would have to be ¾ hour fire-rated, self-closing, and positive latching.
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