Commercial Kitchen Fires are a pressing cause of concern for all those involved in running a restaurant. They can prove to be hazardous not only for property but also for the safety of the business’s employees and its customers. However, the good news is that kitchen fires are entirely preventable. The following are some of the ways to stave off fires:
Kitchen Fire Hood Suppression System
One of the things that a restaurant is required to install by law is a Kitchen Fire Hood Suppression System. A Kitchen fire hood suppression system detects a fire and puts it out before any significant harm can come to a property or business’ employees. It is an absolute must and should be a part of every commercial kitchen and regularly maintained for optimum use.
Degrease the Kitchen and the Ventilation System
Grease is commonly found everywhere in commercial kitchens. It can serve as potent fuel for the fire in case of an unfortunate accident. It is imperative to clean all kitchen surfaces regularly. Scrape and clean all the grease daily. It is easy for kitchen grease to build up on surfaces and in the ventilation system. The ventilation system can serve as a trap for grease. It quickly accumulates there because of its proximity to the stove. And in case of a fire, grease build-up is the catalyst that causes kitchen fires to spread far and wide. Inspect and regularly clean the ventilation system, including the fan, the ductwork, and the hood
Train Your Employees
Employees that work in and around the kitchen should go through a rigorous and detailed fire safety training program. The program will teach them the essentials of what to when there is a grease fire. The program will teach them the location of all the fire extinguishers and how to use them. They should also be assigned daily duties which can minimize the risk of a fire. The responsibilities include thoroughly cleaning surfaces. They should know where and how to store any flammable liquids commonly found in kitchens safely. For safety purposes, employees should be aware of the location of all the business’ emergency fire exits. They should know how to use them effectively and have a seamless plan of action in emergencies. And undergo regular fire drills. Sometimes during the heat of the moment, people tend to make poor choices that can ultimately be very harmful. Employees should know better than to throw water on a grease fire. In such a situation, water will only make matters worse.
Dress Code of the Employees
Employees should also take care to maintain a proper dress code that includes wearing an apron so that they are tucked away in case they have any loose clothing. Employees sporting a longer length of hair should always have it properly tied back.
Maintain Cooking Equipment
Cooking equipment must be cleaned and maintained under the guidelines issued by the manufacturer of the Fire Suppression Systems. Suppose all equipment is maintained and up to date. In that case, it can be the difference-maker between a fire that remains localized and one that spreads and destroys property. Suppose the systems are all in place and installed adequately per the manufacturers’ specifications. If there is a fire, they will immediately shut down all gas and electricity inside the kitchen to mitigate the damage.
While installing kitchen equipment, it is essential to follow the guidelines that the manufacturer has provided. Ovens, deep fryers, and all other such equipment should be installed according to the provided instructions and used with care. It is never a good idea to cut corners while establishing and maintaining a kitchen system. You may think you are saving money by cutting these corners. Still, you are brewing much more significant trouble for yourself and others.
Back up Fire Extinguishers
Even if all other systems are in place, place backup Class K fire extinguishers around the kitchen. Place Class A fire extinguishers around the restaurant’s dining rooms. According to the type of fires likely to erupt in the kitchen, install the correct class fire extinguishers. For the seating areas of the restaurant where the dining takes place, install ABC fire extinguishers. While inside kitchens where the likelihood of a grease fire is maximum, Class K fire extinguishers should be placed.
Well Maintained Sprinkler Systems
Suppose the automatic system detects a fire large enough to warrant the activation of a sprinkler system. In that case, the system will turn on and start diffusing the fire by water. When the fire is large and out of control, sprinklers can be the last defense. However, this type of sprinkler system can not work for several reasons. Reasons it may not work are corrosion and recent repair or remodeling work knocking it offline. Regular inspections and maintainenace will ensure the restaurants’ sprinkler system is in good working order,
Secure the Kitchen at Night
Secure the kitchen properly at closing time each night. Turn off all electrical appliances. Make it the duty of one employee to double-check and turn off all stoves safely. Set up a closing checklist and make it mandatory the list is checked off at closing time completely
Conclusion
For the safety of employees and the protection of property, Commercial Kitchens must take care to implement all the suggestions. By employing these methods, they can prevent fires from erupting. With meticulous planning and vigilance, you can ensure the safety of your restaurant.