TE 3.7 Computer Room construction.doc

T E 3.7 SP3300-10-R-0020

DLA J6N

Computer Facility Requirements Policy

1. Purpose: This document provides guidance/policy concerning the planning, construction and maintenance of Computer Facilities within the J6N support activities. This guidance specifies the minimum safeguards and standards required for the construction of Computer Facilities.

2. Scope and Applicability: This policy applies to the construction and maintenance of all computer facilities within J6N supported activities.

3. Policy: All computer facilities will be constructed and maintained in such a manner as to provide the appropriate level of security to the computer assets and information maintained. Construction materials will be used that will make it obvious if forced entry is attempted.

4. References: DoD 8500.1, DoDI 8500.2

5. Facility Construction:

a. Walls: Walls will be of substantial construction using wood or 3/4 inch wallboard or other materials that offer resistance to, and evidence of, unauthorized entry into the area, and extend from the floor to ceiling.

b. Ceiling: The ceiling will be of substantial construction using wood or 3/4 inch wallboard or other materials that offer resistance to, and evidence of, unauthorized entry into the area. If the walls do not extend to the true ceiling 18 gauge expanded metal or wire mesh maybe placed above the false ceiling to inhibit entry from adjoining space.

c. Doors: Doors will be at minimum solid core with a fire rating of 1 hour and a width of 36 inches or more.

d. Locks: At a minimum, a cipher lock will be placed on all access doors to the computer facility. Card Reader access is recommended.

e. Windows: Windows lower than 18 feet from ground level will be barred or covered to inhibit entry. Windows will be opaque or have blinds or coverings that prevent observation.

f. Alarm system: It is highly recommended that the computer facility have an alarm that is activated during non-duty hours that notifies the servicing police or security force of attempted access to the facility.

g. Facility size: The size of the computer facility should be such that there is, at a minimum, 36 inches of clearance in front of and behind each server and equipment rack. Space must be provided to enable the maintenance and movement of computer equipment in and out of the computer room without coming in contact with existing computer equipment.

6. Cable Management:

Cables must be maintained in a manner to limit the possibility of accident or cable breakage through the use of raised floors, ceilings or cable racks.

7. Environmental Controls:

a. Temperature: Automatic temperature controls will be installed to prevent temperature fluctuations potentially harmful to personnel or equipment operations. It is highly recommended that the computer facility have dedicated heating/air conditioning system. At a minimum, the thermostat that controls the temperature of the computer facility will be locked and access provided to authorized personnel only.

b. Humidity: Automatic humidity controls will be installed to prevent fluctuations potentially harmful to personnel or equipment operations. The local environment will dictate the requirements for humidifiers/dehumidifiers. Generally, air conditioning equipment will be sufficient to maintain an acceptable humidity level; however a highly humid environment may require additional dehumidifiers while an exceptionally dry environment may require a humidifier.

c. Emergency Lighting: An automatic emergency lighting system will be installed that covers all areas necessary to maintain mission or business essential functions, including emergency exits and evacuation routes.

8. Access:

a. Access to computer facilities is provided only to individuals with a valid requirement for access.

b. An access roster will be created and posted on each door to the computer facility listing authorized personnel.

c. A visitor register will be maintained that will include the name of the visitor, purpose of visit, time of entry and departure and name of escort.

9. Fire:

a. Detection: Battery operated or electric stand alone smoke detectors will be installed in each computer facility.

b. Suppression: Handheld fire extinguishers or fixed fire hoses will be available should an alarm sound or fire is detected. It is highly recommend that an automatic fire suppression system that activates when heat or smoke is detected be installed.

c. Notification: Automatic notification must be received at the servicing fire department on activation of either the smoke detectors or automatic fire suppression system.

10. Power:

a. Power supply: The power supply to the computer facility will be separate from the rest of the building with a master power switch or emergency cut-off switch located near the main entrance of the computer facility, labeled and protected by a cover to prevent accidental cut-off.

b. Emergency Power: The computer facility will at minimum, maintain an uninterruptible power system for each server, switch and router. It is highly recommended that the entire computer facility be placed on an emergency generator.