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Enhancing Data Center Management & Safety: A Closer Look 

August 26, 2024

We know that embracing cutting-edge technologies is crucial for maximizing efficiency and ensuring safety in the fast-changing world of data center management. We utilize many proven technologies and tools across our global data center footprint to optimize performance and provide increased efficiency and visibility across our data center deployments. Read more to learn about one example:     

DataScope has emerged as a game-changer, providing on-site management solutions to optimize field operations and plan, manage, and track team performance. EdgeConneX harnesses the power of this technology across several data centers, including our facilities in Jakarta, Indonesia, Cyberjaya Malaysia, and Santiago, Chile, along with Atlanta, Georgia and Portland, Oregon and many others across the EU, coming soon. We’ve found that these deployments help further drive advancements and ensure smooth operations, especially in large construction sites such as Jakarta, with up to 500 on-site workers. However, if required, this system can manage an unlimited number of workers on larger sites.   

Leveraging The Best Tools for Site Management 

Serving as a comprehensive site management tool in our data centers DataScope integrates various functionalities, such as RFID badge readers and daily activity briefings, to streamline operations. Our contractors can ascertain who is working where, schedule resources effectively, and coordinate trades to ensure optimal workflow. For instance, if a crew performs overhead work, DataScope prevents other personnel from being on the data center floor, thus helping to maintain safety and efficiency. 

“The introduction of tools like DataScope has transformed our site management practices. The real-time visibility into workforce activities ensures we can swiftly address potential issues and maintain a safe working environment.” – Jason Crowell, Director of Environmental, Health and Safety – Burr Computer Environments, Inc (BCEI) 

Customized Solutions Based on Unique Requirements 

The deployment of DataScope in the Jakarta region has led to various improvements. The EdgeConneX team has collaborated closely with the DataScope team to customize the platform to better suit our requirements. These enhancements have had a positive impact on our projects and have also contributed to the overall advancement of the DataScope platform. 

Key functionalities include: 

  • Turnstile & Operations Management System: Utilizing facial recognition in Malaysia and badges in the US to control site access. 
  • Worker Training and Badging: Scanning a badge to verify a worker’s qualifications ensures that only trained personnel perform specific tasks. 
  • Mobile App System: This system facilitates permit-to-work submissions, equipment inspections, safety walk management, risk assessments, and safe action plans right from a smartphone. EdgeConneX team leaders and contractors can create Environmental Health and Safety documents without having to write it down on paper to quickly address inspections, permits, Corrective Action Preventative Action Requests (CPAR). All this documentation and statues can be monitored on live queues and interactive dashboards. It is through this system that EdgeConneX can identify every worker on-site and have well recorded and documented EHS briefings.  

Jackson Menke“EdgeConneX is committed to using the best tools and resources to maintain the highest safety standards and ensure efficient on-site organization. DataScope’s flexibility to meet our specific needs has been a game-changer. Through collaboration, we have customized the platform to fit our unique requirements and improve their tool even further. Implementing the tool on-site in Jakarta and other markets has significantly improved workflow visibility and safety.” – Jackson Menke, Director of Safety – EdgeConneX 

 Operational Benefits and Safety Enhancements 

All contractors on-site have access to DataScope, with supervisors having elevated permissions to ensure proper oversight. The system enables users to: 

  • Track unsafe conditions and log issues for resolution. 
  • Enhance workflow and permit management, providing greater visibility into workforce activities. 
  • Conduct vehicle, scaffolding, and task-specific safety inspections. 
  • Identify disciplinary actions, such as tracking rule violations and deactivating badges. 
  • All contractors and subcontractors can easily communicate the work plan for tomorrow and can coordinate if there are any simultaneous operations occurring. 

The DABs (Daily Activity Briefings) feature is particularly noteworthy. It allows our leadership from all contractors on site, led by our EdgeConneX construction manager, to identify workforce locations and manage activities effectively. This creates accountability and aids in instant investigations when needed.   

During strict COVID restrictions or in similar situations where there is no mixing of contractor groups during construction, DABs coupled with advanced tools help manage and streamline workforce and activities.  

Customer Recognition 

Some of our largest customers in the APAC region have praised our use of DataScope for site management. The platform’s capabilities have garnered positive feedback for improving operational efficiency and further ensuring safety. 

Integrating leading tools in our data centers exemplifies our commitment to leveraging technology for superior site management. By customizing platforms to fit our exacting needs and enhancing functionalities, we have set new standards for efficiency and safety.