Commercial kitchen fires due to improper canopy cleaning or kitchen exhaust cleaning practices continue to be a problem for restaurants across Melbourne, with several high-profile fires occurring in 2017. These fires suggest the existence of an ‘awareness’ problem amongst facility managers, restaurant owners and service providers.
All stakeholders must understand the risks to save lives, businesses, and careers. Remember that it’s not just the restaurant that’s in danger. Many restaurants share complex duct exhaust systems with multi-storied residential developments. Commercial kitchen fires often spread through the duct systems and into these residential apartments.
A fire can start due to an issue with the kitchen canopy or a kitchen exhaust system cleaning practises. People often ask us how frequently kitchen exhaust systems should be professionally cleaned. However, this is usually a difficult question to answer as it will depend on kitchen usage and practises within the kitchen.
The Damage
Commercial kitchen exhaust fires can be intense, reaching 1,000 degrees Celsius. Almost 90% of kitchen fires spread into kitchen canopy exhaust systems.
Many restaurants never re-open after a kitchen fire, and many insurance policies reject claims when kitchen exhaust systems and canopies have not been adequately cleaned.
Greasy exhausts and canopies are a significant reason why fires spread. Grease can leak out of duct joints, causing a fire to spread outside the ductwork and through a building.
Grease Filters Need To Be Managed
Grease filters are designed to collect grease and, by their very nature, are fire hazards. A recent ‘Bulletin’ by AIRAH (Australian Institute Of Refrigeration, Ait Conditioning & Heating) states that:
“A fire within the duct system generally occurs due to the ignition of flamable material that has built up at the grease re,mocal device (filters)” AIRAH, 20116
Proper maintenance and management of grease filters will prevent some fires from occurring. Clean Air Filtration offers Australia’s best Grease Filter Cleaning & Filter Exchange Service.
You Are Legally Responsible – We Are Here To Help
The Australian standard AS 1851-2012 outlines the minimum inspection, maintenance and record-keeping requirements for fire kitchen exhaust systems.
Clean Air Filtration understand and ensure your responsibilities are met. Leave the details to us and give us a call.
