Companies, but also private individuals, collect important data on electronic storage media. However, memory cards, external disks, magnetic tapes, DVDs, floppy disks or microfilms can be damaged, especially at high temperatures. They are also exposed to the unwanted actions of third parties. There is a proven way to protect these items and the information stored on them.
Individuals and companies can choose from a wide range of media safes. Compared with standard safes, these offer more than just burglary protection. One of their distinguishing features is high-quality fireproofing. Special fillings together with seals provide a barrier to flames, smoke and fire extinguishing agents. This is extremely important for buyers, as high temperatures pose a threat to electronic storage media.
Media safes undergo fire and shock tests. They are first heated to 1090 °C for 60 or 120 minutes. They are then dropped from a height of 9.15 m onto a gravel base and remain in the heated room for half an hour. This simulates the collapse of the ceiling during a fire. The impact test weakens the safe's structure and only then can we find out if the safe passes the test, as it is returned to the furnace at a temperature of around 1000 °C for the entire cooling down phase. During the entire test, which lasts approximately 24 hours, the temperature inside the safe must not exceed 30°C. This is an extremely demanding test, which is why when buying a fireproof safe it is essential to ensure that the safe was certified in accordance with the PN-EN 1047-1 standard. Only then do we have a guarantee of the safe's quality, as most other tests are limited to heating the safe for 1 hour at a much lower temperature, which does not simulate the features of a real fire.
In the case of the products offered by Hartmann Tresore, the tests take place at the Technische Universität Braunschweig (Brunswick University of Technology). If a product passes this test, it is certified by the Building Materials Testing Institute. Information on compliance with the standards is available to the purchaser.
In addition to the double protection – burglary protection and fire protection – a wide range of accessories remains an advantage. A useful solution is the so-called panic lock. If a fire breaks out in a room, all you have to do is push hard on the door and it will automatically slam shut. They can be opened to the left and/or right and also slide forward. Single and double door models are available, with an opening angle of 180 degrees.
The so-called data safes make it easier to organise media. Customers appreciate the adjustable and compartmentalised shelves, among other things. Depending on the size, between approx. 100 and even more than 200 DVDs/CDs can be stored in this way.
The loss of valuable data can cause various problems, including legal and financial ones. It is in the interest of both the individual and the company to ensure that they are adequately protected. Some situations cannot be foreseen, but it is worth reducing the risk associated with the consequences of various events, including fire. Investing in a suitable safe for data carriers will certainly not be an unnecessary expense.
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