Project Audits
A facility audit gives you full information, conclusions and recommendations on how to maintain Data Center continuity. Conclusions are based on a series of tests that check the correct and safe operation of the technical infrastructure.
The service is carried out primarily in existing facilities, to identify operational issues and infrastructure gaps – before a building is purchased, leased or modernized.
How we work
Uptime Institute ATS Accredited Tier Specialist
The BCA Engineering Group team includes an accredited Uptime Institute ATS Accredited Tier Specialist.Preparing for Tier certification
We prepare documentation outlining the requirements that the facility must meet to obtain certification and review the existing documentation.
We ensure the presence of an accredited specialist during the testing process and prepare the required documentation following completion of the certification process.
Uptime Institute compliance audits
We conduct compliance audits against Uptime Institute standards, an independent organization specialising in Data Center research, education and consultancy. Uptime Institute operates in more than 50 countries, focusing on improving the performance and efficiency of Data Center facilities. It is the only organization of its kind to issue certifications for compliance with Tier standards and Operational Sustainability standards.
Tier standards and certification
The Tier classification defines design and investment standards for Data Centers worldwide. These standards are used to determine the level of availability, reliability, return on investment (ROI) and facility performance. The certification process covers two areas: Tier Certification of Design Documents and Tier Certification of Constructed Facility.
Tier classification levels
The Tier classification applies to the physical infrastructure of Data Centers. Certifications are awarded at four levels:
- Tier IV – Multiple active power distribution paths, with redundant components and fault-tolerant infrastructure. Provides 99.995% availability. No single failure should affect the end user.
- Tier III – Multiple active power distribution paths, with only one path requiring redundant components. Provides 99.982% availability.
- Tier II – A single power distribution path with redundant components. Provides 99.741% availability.
- Tier I – A single power distribution path without redundant components. Provides 99.671% availability. Including planned maintenance, the system may be unavailable for at least 24 hours per year.
We also conduct audits for compliance with the ANSI/TIA-942 standard, one of the most widely used standards for Data Center design. Compliance is verified against approximately 2,600 requirements covering areas such as construction, electrical and mechanical systems, telecommunications and security. These requirements help determine whether a Data Center meets the functions and performance requirements defined for its intended use.
Comprehensive scope of infrastructure audit
The scope of the audit depends on the condition of the facility and its systems. A standard report includes an assessment of the building, HVAC systems (ventilation, cooling and air conditioning), power supply, cabling, telecommunications, fire protection, plumbing and infrastructure efficiency, as well as losses in transformers and UPS systems.
PUE and DCIE energy efficiency assessment
The results of the power audit can be used to determine Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) or Data Center Infrastructure Efficiency (DCiE).
A comprehensive audit enables to assess the condition of the infrastructure, its reliability and the Data Center's energy efficiency.
During audits and consultations we apply guidelines set by independent international organizations:
