Why architects and contractors need to tackle the chimney blind spot in data centre construction.

Chimneys are a critical part of building a resilient data centre.They allow the back- up generators to function properly in the event of a mains outage, keeping servers powered and important digital services available to the millions of users seeking to access them.

 But flues are not just important to the building owner or operator; they also have a direct impact on the construction of new data halls.There are hundreds of contractors involved in a typical project, and each will require certain phases to complete before they can begin work on site. Leaving flues to the last moment – as some do – significantly raises the chance of errors just as the building is nearing completion.This will not only delay sign off and payment but will also damage the developer’s standing in a market where work is often awarded on recommendation. This oversight is the ‘chimney blind spot’.