Well-maintained Commercial fire suppression systems are the first line of defense any kitchen can always depend on when it comes to fire safety 101. While these systems are meant to respond to the first signs of fire, they must be kept clean and well-maintained to ensure they can function properly when needed the most. It is up to the restaurant owner or manager to routinely check on the state of the kitchen’s fire suppression capabilities.
For those who haven’t done a routine check recently, here are a few maintenance tips to keep in mind for the future:
Tip 1: Evaluate The Current System
Due to the demand for healthier cooking alternatives, kitchens and cafes have now switched to using vegetable oil instead of animal-based alternatives. With the switch comes the need to heat oil to a higher temperature which requires an updated suppression system.
Older systems are not capable of extinguishing grease fires that have a higher temperature range. If this is the case for your commercial fires suppression systems, it is time for an update.
Tip 2: Upgrade And Update Regularly
A common mistake that is costly is forgetting to upgrade the commercial fire suppression systems regularly. Just because there is a system in place doesn’t mean it doesn’t require constant upgrading and updating. Fire extinguishers that have never been used can go out of date and fail when finally used. Also check if the fire alarm or smoke detector might need fresh batteries as well.
Don’t get caught off guard when a fire breaks out, upgrade the system regularly.
Tip 3: Maintain A Clean Kitchen
All commercial kitchens should have a strict cleaning routine to ensure food safety. While the kitchen crew works hard to maintain a clean cooking surface, the fire suppression systems are normally forgotten. Oily and greasy counters are major fire hazards that can easily be avoided with constant cleaning.
Making sure the ventilation system isn’t clogged with dust or grease should also be a priority when it comes to kitchen safety. No matter how meticulous the kitchen crew is with keeping their work surface clean, sometimes hiring professional cleaners to clean the kitchen from floor to ceiling is the best investment in safety you can make.
Tip 4: Staff Training
Even if the kitchen has a state of the art fire suppression system it is moot if the staff aren’t trained. Take the time to do fire drills and other kitchen safety drills so that the kitchen crew is prepared in case of an emergency. Everything from how to use a fire extinguisher correctly and where to exit must be rehearsed to prevent panic and recklessness in the event of a kitchen fire.
Tip 5: Regular Inspections
Take the time to check the fire safety equipment that they are updated and working. Also inspect fire exits for any blockages before starting a shift for everyone’s safety. As long as the system is updated and everyone is prepared to act accordingly when a fire occurs, there is a good chance of saving the kitchen in case of a fire without the worry of casualties.
Commercial fire suppression systems can save your most precious business assets — people and equipment. Contact Westminster Fire today and find out what’s the best setup to protect your business.