Media Storage: Fireproof Safes

When planning for business continuity, it's a common recommendation that you store a full copy of your data backup off-site. Off-site storage helps protect against a backup being caught in the same problem that 'takes out' the computers on which you store your business data.

However, for very small businesses, this recommendation can be hard to follow. Vaulted off-site storage may not be financially wise for small backups. Still, one option available to small businesses is the purchase of a fireproof safe to store backups. While a good safe may not be inexpensive, it's a one-time purchase that offers long-lasting peace of mind.

As a general rule, Imation suggests that you store magnetic and optical media in a safe that meets the UL 125 1-hour fire and impact rating. The internal temperature of a safe that carries the UL 125 1-hour fire rating will not exceed 125º F (52º C) after sitting in a 1700º F (926º C) furnace for 60 minutes. Fire safes that are not manufactured to UL 125 may have their internal temperature exceed the safe storage temperature range for magnetic and optical media.