XIRI Facility SolutionsData Center Sub-Floor Zinc-Whisker Remediation
Microscopic zinc whiskers from galvanized floor tiles cause short circuits. We identify, remediate, and prevent recurrence.
Corporate Office
Nightly Commercial Cleaning
What Are Zinc Whiskers?
Zinc whiskers are microscopic metal filaments that grow from galvanized steel floor tiles. They break off, become airborne in sub-floor plenums, and cause short circuits in IT equipment. A single whisker can take down a server. Most data center operators don't know they have a zinc whisker problem until equipment fails.
Our Remediation Process
We inspect sub-floor plenums for zinc whisker contamination, HEPA-vacuum affected areas with H14-grade filtration, assess galvanized tiles for replacement priority, and implement ongoing monitoring protocols. All work follows ASHRAE TC 9.9 and iNEMI guidelines.
Compliance Checklist
Sub-floor plenum inspection and HEPA vacuuming
ASHRAE TC 9.9
Zinc whisker identification on galvanized tiles
iNEMI Guidelines
HEPA-H14 filtered airborne particle control
ISO 14644-1
Anti-static protocols for equipment proximity work
ANSI/ESD S20.20
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my data center has a zinc whisker problem?
If your data center has galvanized steel floor tiles (common in pre-2005 builds), you likely have zinc whiskers. We perform a sub-floor inspection with magnification and particle sampling to assess severity.
Can zinc whiskers be permanently eliminated?
The whiskers themselves can be removed with HEPA vacuuming, but they regrow from galvanized surfaces. Long-term solutions include tile replacement with non-galvanized alternatives and ongoing HEPA maintenance cleaning.
💰 Estimate Your Cleaning Cost
Use our free commercial cleaning cost calculator to see what janitorial services should cost for your office, medical facility, or commercial space.
Try the Cost Calculator →Ready to Upgrade Your Protocol?
Book a free site audit. We'll assess your facility and build a compliance-ready cleaning protocol.
Get Your Free Site Audit