Data center delays do not always begin on site. Often, they begin much earlier – in a factory, a test plan, a documentation gap or a piece of equipment that has not been fully verified before shipment.
For critical systems, such as UPS units, generators, switchgear, cooling equipment and controls, this matters. These assets are often long-lead, highly specified and tightly linked to the construction and commissioning sequence.
Finding issues before they reach the site
Factory acceptance testing (FAT) helps verify that critical equipment meets agreed specifications, performance requirements and quality expectations before it leaves the manufacturer. It gives project teams the opportunity to identify issues when they are easier, faster and more cost-effective to resolve. In fast-track projects, this early visibility can protect the wider schedule.
From factory to site acceptance
Site acceptance testing (SAT) confirms that equipment performs as intended once installed and integrated into the data center environment. Together, FAT and SAT provide a structured approach to supplier quality assurance, supporting smoother commissioning, stronger documentation and greater confidence at handover.
David Tyrrell, Data Center Services Expert at SGS, said: "FAT and SAT are not just technical checkpoints. They provide essential evidence that critical equipment has been built, tested and installed correctly, helping project teams reduce risk before it affects operational readiness."
Reducing commissioning surprises
A defect discovered after delivery can disrupt installation, delay testing and add pressure to already compressed timelines. FAT/SAT helps reduce those surprises by moving critical questions earlier in the process.
Supporting digital trust
Our FAT/SAT services, part of our wider DIGITAL TRUST solutions, reflect the importance of independently verified infrastructure. We help data center stakeholders verify critical equipment through inspection, testing, commissioning and assurance services.
When speed, resilience and certainty are critical, FAT and SAT help ensure essential equipment is ready before it becomes a project risk.
Find out more about our FAT and SAT services.
