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What are the most common causes of fire in kitchens?
In commercial kitchens, common causes of fire include:
- defective or damaged heating controls
- overheating of cooking oils and fats
- unattended devices
- burners overheating and grease/dirt residue build-up.
Even a small fire is likely to cause damage. This could mean the temporary closure of the premises while a mobile kitchen is sourced, or alternative arrangements made.
Reducing the risk of fire
Good housekeeping, regular maintenance and staff training can reduce but not fully eliminate the risk of fire in kitchens.
Below are some other ways you can use to reduce the risk.
Kitchen extraction
Regular cleaning of the whole extraction system is important. A build-up of fat and grease deposits within extraction canopy systems, filters and ducting pipework poses a significant fire risk.
Cleaning should be undertaken by a contractor certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board LPS2084 or by the BESCA Vent Hygiene Elite Scheme.
The Building Engineering Services Association TR19 'Guide to Good Practice - Internal Cleanliness of Ventilation Systems' should be used for guidance.
Kitchen hood fire suppression
Kitchen hood fire suppression systems are installed in commercial catering facilities across a wide variety of premises and can reduce the impact of a fire.
Ideally, all extraction canopies (including hoods, ductwork, plenums, and filters) covering cooking ranges should be fitted with fixed fire suppression systems complying with an appropriate standard, for example, LPS 1223 or UL300.
Such systems should be installed by a company who are BAFE SP206 Scheme accredited, or by a contractor approved by the manufacturer.
Kitchen equipment maintenance
Equipment that is serviced and maintained regularly is less likely to cause problems. It is essential that you plan inspections and servicing for all kitchen equipment. This should be done in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and by a competent contractor/person. Make sure to include safety devices such as thermostats, temperature control devices, flame supervision devices etc.
You can find more detailed guidance in the documents below.