11/09/2026 10:00-16:00
As part of our commitment to quality and continual improvement, Iomart will be conducting a Black Building Test at our Manchester Data Centre (DC13) on 11 September 2026.
This activity is required to verify the correct operation of our power backup systems and to carry out dynamic and functional testing of the switchgear breakers.
What Will Happen?
The following checks and activities will be completed by the combined project team:
- Prior to the commencement of work, all systems will be inspected and serviced to ensure they are operating correctly and that no issues are present.
- Mains power to the site will be isolated by opening the main incomer breaker.
- Site infrastructure will automatically transfer the site load to the standby generator.
- IT services will remain operational throughout this process, supported by UPS battery backup.
- The site load will remain on generator supply for approximately 60 minutes before being transferred back to mains power.
- Once testing has been completed, the mains power supply will be reinstated, and site infrastructure will return to its normal operating configuration.
- A full site inspection will be carried out to identify and investigate any issues that may have arisen during the test.
Following the return to normal operations, the project team will conduct comprehensive plant checks to confirm that there are no active alarms and that all systems are operating normally.
The work will be carried out on the 11th September 2026, between 1000 to 1600hrs, however, the expected duration of this activity is approximately 6 hours.
Our specialist contractors Vertiv and Vital, and Sudlows will also be supporting this activity alongside our DC Operations Engineers
Disruption
As with any maintenance activity, there is a degree of risk; however, the Black Building Test is expected to be non-service affecting.
Should the risk to site operations increase at any stage during the test, the activity will be immediately aborted, and mains power will be reinstated.
