What should be the primary focus of datacenter redundancy and contingency planning?

The primary focus of datacenter redundancy and contingency planning is to ensure the safety and continuity of operations, particularly in emergency situations. While all options are important in a comprehensive strategy, the emphasis on health and human safety underscores the critical need to protect personnel and visitors during incidents that may disrupt normal operations.

In the context of datacenter operations, if human safety is compromised, the ability to maintain other facets of the datacenter becomes secondary. For example, even if the infrastructure and power systems are robust, serious incidents like fires, floods, or pandemics necessitate immediate attention to the well-being of those present. Health and human safety protocols must be integrated into contingency plans to mitigate risks, plan evacuations, and provide necessary medical attention.

This focus also aligns with broader best practices in risk management, emphasizing that any redundancy and contingency measures implemented should not only safeguard data and systems but also prioritize the health and safety of all individuals involved. Therefore, as organizations develop their strategies for datacenter redundancy, placing a priority on safety transcends other operational concerns, reflecting a commitment to responsible management and ethical considerations in the workplace.