- Author
- Hall, J. R., Jr.
- Title
- Special Analysis Package Computer Equipment and Computer Areas.
- Coporate
- National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA
- Keywords
- computers | electronic equipment | fire statistics | statistical analysis | fire protection
- Abstract
- Computer equipment and computer areas are not uniquely identified in the national fire incident data bases. Instead, computer equipment is part of a larger category of electronic equipment, which also includes telephone equipment and some other types of equipment that will be factors only in a few select types of properties (e.g., radar, x-ray equipment, transmitter). Similarly, computer or data processing areas are coded as part of a larger category of electronic equipment areas which also includes telephone equipment rooms and telephone booths, control centers, and radar rooms. This statistical analysis therefore unavoidably covers all electronic equipment rooms and electronic equipment. The incidents that follow in the illustrative narrative section, however, have been screened for computer-related fires only. Note, too, that computer equipment (or other electronic equipment) need not be located in a room or area dedicated to such equipment. Conversely, a fire in a room that is dedicated to such equipment need not start with the equipment. For example, fire could start in trash or in the room's wiring system.