Maintaining a pest-free environment in data centres is essential for keeping equipment running smoothly and protecting valuable data. Unfortunately, pests can find their way into even the most well-maintained facilities, and the consequences of an infestation can be severe.

In this article, we'll take a look at some common pest warning signs in data centres that you need to watch out for and provide tips on how to prevent and deal with infestations.

Spotting Bugs in Your System

Pests can leave various signs that they are present in a data centre. When you know what to look for, you can catch an infestation before it becomes a major problem. Here are some of the most common pest warning signs in data centres:

Droppings

Pest droppings are a telltale sign of an infestation. In data centres, you might find droppings in areas where pests are likely to travel, such as along walls, under desks, and near electrical equipment. Droppings can vary in size and shape depending on the type of pest, but they are generally small and black.

Nests and/or Webbing

Some pests, such as rodents and insects, like to build nests or webs in secluded areas. In data centres, this might include spaces between walls, ceiling tiles, or under raised floors. Look for signs of nesting material, such as shredded paper or fabric, as well as actual nests or webs.

Gnaw Marks

Pests like rodents might chew on cables, wires, or other equipment in data centres, leaving behind distinctive marks. If you see frayed or damaged cables, or if equipment appears to have been chewed on, it's a good indication that pests are present.

Dead Pests

Finding dead pests in data centres is a clear sign that there might be an infestation. It may be possible the pest died from natural causes but it's more likely that it was killed by pest control measures or by another pest. If you find a dead pest, it's important to investigate further to determine if there are more pests present.

Unusual Smells

Some pests, such as rodents or cockroaches, can produce strong, unpleasant odours. If you notice an unusual smell in your data centre, it might be a sign that pests are present. Keep in mind, however, that some electrical equipment can also produce odours, so it's important to rule out other causes.

Scratching or Squeaking Sounds

If you hear sounds like scratching or squeaking in the walls or ceiling of your data centre, it's a good indication that pests are present. These sounds might be most noticeable during quiet times, such as at night or on weekends.

Footprints or Tracks

Not every pest can leave one but bigger pests might leave footprints or tracks in dust or other materials. Look for signs of footprints or tracks near walls or along floors.

Bite Marks

Some pests, such as bed bugs or fleas, can leave bite marks on humans or equipment. If you or your employees are experiencing unexplained bites, or if you notice bite marks on cables or wires, it's a good indication that pests are present.

Sightings

Actually seeing pests in your data centre is an obvious warning sign. If you see pests during normal business hours, there likely is much more hiding nearby.

Uninvited Guests Wreaking Havoc

The consequences of a pest infestation in a data centre can be severe. Pests can cause damage to equipment, leading to costly repairs or replacements. They can also damage data, leading to data loss or corruption. On top of that, some pests can create health hazards for employees, leading to lost productivity and potential legal liability.

Defending Your Data Centres

Prevention is the best way to avoid pest infestations in data centres. Here are some tips for keeping pests out:

Keep the data centre clean: Regular cleaning can help prevent pests from finding food, water, or shelter in your data centre.

Seal off entry points: Pests can enter through even the tiniest cracks or gaps. Ensure all entry points, such as doors, windows, and vents, are properly sealed.

Store food and waste properly: If your data centre has a break room or kitchen, make sure that all food and waste are stored in sealed containers.

Remove clutter: Piles of boxes or other clutter can provide hiding places for pests. Keep the data centre clear of unnecessary items.

Keep landscaping well-maintained: Overgrown bushes or trees can provide a pathway for pests to enter the building. Keep landscaping well-trimmed and away from the building.

Don't Let Pests Crash Your System

Despite your best efforts, pests may still enter your data centre. If you suspect an infestation, it's important to act quickly to minimize the damage. Here are some steps to take:

Call a commercial electrician: Before any pest control measures are taken, it's important to ensure that electrical equipment is not damaged. A commercial electrician can inspect the equipment and advise on any repairs or necessary replacements.

Call a pest control professional: An experienced pest control professional can identify the type of pest and provide effective treatment options. They can do express building and pest inspections to assess an array of defects or areas of concern throughout the centre, including conducive conditions or attacks from pests and structural concerns. They can also help prevent future infestations by identifying and sealing off entry points.

Clean up and disinfect: After a pest infestation has been treated, it's important to clean up and disinfect the affected areas. This can help prevent the spread of disease and remove any remaining pest attractants.

Conclusion

Data centres are crucial investments and the backbone of modern businesses. Maintaining a pest-free environment in data centres is crucial for their smooth functioning and safeguarding of valuable data. It is important to be aware of the warning signs of a pest infestation from droppings to actual sightings. Prevention is key so maintaining cleanliness to keeping the landscape well-maintained are important preventive measures. Though despite our best efforts, pests may still enter data centres that’s why it is essential to do our best to keep them pest-free. With these measures in place, data centres can continue to be the modern equivalent of ancient gold, the lifeblood of businesses.