Evaluating the Effectiveness of Safety Systems in Libyan Data Centers for Protecting Equipment, People, and Buildings from Thermal and Fire Hazards

الملخص

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of safety systems in Libyan data centers across the public and private sectors, in accordance with NFPA standards. The researchers adopted a comparative descriptive-analytical approach, using a questionnaire administered to 55 employees covering four dimensions: early detection, fire suppression, electrical safety and environmental control, and training and readiness. Cronbach's alpha reached 0.91, confirming the reliability of the instrument. The results showed an overall mean of 1.90 out of 5.00, reflecting a 44.1% gap from minimum standards. The training dimension recorded the lowest level (1.42, a 58.2% gap), while early detection scored the best (2.18). The findings also revealed that 55.8% of respondents had never conducted a fire drill, 42.3% lacked a recovery plan, and 13.5% used unsuitable water-based suppression systems. The study recommended installing advanced detection systems, replacing unsuitable suppression media with clean agents, conducting regular hands-on training, and issuing binding national legislation.