Which of the following methods of suppressing a fire in a data center is the MOST effective and environmentally friendly?

A. Halon gas

B. Wet-pipe sprinklers

C. Dry-pipe sprinklers

D. Carbon dioxide gas

Explanation: Water sprinklers, with an automatic power shutoff system, are accepted as efficient because they can be set to automatic release without threat to life, and water is environmentally friendly.

Sprinklers must be dry-pipe to prevent the risk of leakage. Halon is efficient and effective as it does not threaten human life and, therefore, can be set to automatic release, but it is environmentally damaging and very expensive. Water is an acceptable medium but the pipes should be empty to avoid leakage, so a full system is not a viable option. Carbon dioxide is accepted as an environmentally acceptable gas, but it is less efficient because it cannot be set to automatic release in a staffed site since it threatens life.