IT and Data Closets

Q: Do IT/data closets need to be fire-rated or smoke-rated? I was having a discussion with one of my colleagues, and he is claiming that it is no longer necessary. I am still thinking that IT/data closets are considered a hazard storage even though it is low voltage. Can you please clarify? Thanks for any help you can provide.

A: If the IT closet is classified as a hazardous area and it is over 50 square feet in size, then it must be protected as a hazardous area in accordance with the new construction or existing condition requirements. That would mean the closet would have to be protected with 1-hour fire-rated construction and be protected with sprinklers if considered new construction, or it would mean the closet would have to be protected with 1-hour fire-rated construction or be protected with sprinklers if it was considered existing construction.

But there is no specific requirement to have IT closets or data closets be classified as hazardous rooms, and there is no specific Life Safety Code requirement for IT closets or data closets to be fire-rated or smoke-rated. However, if the closet is over 50 square feet in size and contains combustible storage, then that’s a different story and would have to be considered a hazardous room.

But check with your state and local AHJs to see if they have any such requirement.