Server Rack Filling Instructions to Prevent Tipping Hazards
Server Rack Filling Instructions to Prevent Tipping Hazards
While server racks allow an efficient way to stack servers, they can also create an unsafe environment by falling over if the servers are not distributed correctly on the rackrails. It is important that you load the server rack correctly to avoid tipping problems.
To prevent a server rack from tipping you should not from the top down. The following guidelines can prevent accidental tipping:
Load from the bottom:
It is always advisable to load from the bottom and continue mounting up. This keeps the weight at the bottom so the server rack does not become top heavy.
Place Heavy Equipments at the Bottom:
Always place all the heavy equipments at the bottom. Heavier the equipment, lower should it be placed for better safety operations. Also this would prevent health hazards, like lifting heavy equipments and hurting your back. This also ensures better stability for your server rack. Also try to bolt the racks to the floor, if it is possible.
Set all cabling at the top:
After all the heavy equipment is placed at the bottom of the server rack, you can put the lighter but important equipments and accessories at the top. This is precisely the reason why the cabling should be placed right at the top as they are relatively light. Accordingly, lightweight rackmount powerstrips can be placed at the top for better management.
These instructions are time tested and they have indeed proved to be very helpful for proper maintenance and management of server racks. They have also helped in reducing accidents related to server rack tipping. However, if you cannot load in the suggested manner, you may want to consider using anti-tip pull-out feet on the base of the rack.