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Mould Treatment in Data Centres
IT'S NOT JUST IN YOUR SHOWER
WHAT IT IS?
Naturally occurring and practically everywhere, mould spreads via spores. These tiny particles are light enough to disperse widely before settling on surfaces. If a spore lands where it finds a reliable source of moisture and nutrients at the right temperature, a new colony will grow. Comms rooms typically do not have the CRAC units which data centres use to regulate room temperature and humidity. Some are even quite dusty, providing a food source for growing mould pores.
WHY YOU SHOULD BE CONCERNED?
News reports have called mould “the new asbestos”, saying that exposure to it can adversely affect human health. Mould in the workplace has gone from just being unsightly and smelly to becoming a WHS issue.
Fig 1: Mould is unsighlty and a WHS hazard
HOW TO MINIMISE THE RISK
Precautions must be taken immediately to limit mould growth.
- Investigate, then eliminate or at least control
the source of elevated moisture levels.
- Adjust room air conditioning throughout the year to avoid condensation developing on surfaces.
- Direct air vents to the floor and away from the walls and rack surfaces, giving incoming cooler air more time to equilibrate with warmer room air, thus reducing the potential for condensation to occur.
- Engage a professional technical cleaning company with experience in mould treatment to remove mould growth on accessible moisture-tolerant surfaces using a proven mould-treating chemical compatible with data centres.
- After cleaning, repaint the room with a mould- and mildew- resistant paint such as one used in high-humidity environments like bathrooms and kitchens to inhibit the development of future mould growth.
- Avoid storing unnecessary boxes and items in the room which can impede air flow and create areas for mould to grow back.
Fig 2. Mould - before cleaning
Fig 3. Mould - after cleaning
USEFUL PRODUCTS