I am looking for a standard that provides the structural design criteria for data centers based on the tier system. I would like to follow a standard for both the gravity loads and lateral environmental loads. Is this information provided in the TIA-942 document? Are there any other industry standards that define structural loading and design criteria for Data Center design?

Thanks,

Find out from the equipment supplier what they require for support as well as cabling requirements. I've done a few centres where they have the equipment 'self-supported' on their own frame/rack and the floor system is proprietary with an elevated walking surface and a 1'-6" clear elevated platform system... also done them with equipment on an upper floor with bar grating and a floor below.

Dik

AggieDoggie,

The short answer is yes. I recommend getting hold of this document as it also covers other important design considerations such as the structural framing system, floor slab thickness & construction, fire rating of structural elements.

Major Data Centres generally need to be serviceable after a disaster event (earthquake, flood etc.)and therefore the design approach should be no different to a critical post disaster facility such as a hospital or fire station.

Some of the larger Data Centres providers their own design brief so if the client hasn't already provided this, I would adopt TIA-942 and maybe issue a Return Brief to your client for their approval before proceeding any further.

Thanks for your help.

AD