FIRE PROTECTION
Kitchen Suppression
UL 300 Compliant
Since 1998 fire code has required kitchen fire suppression systems to be upgraded to the UL 300 standard only when certain conditions were met, this has now changed. Since January 1, 2014, the current version of the fire code (NFPA 96 standard) requires that all systems must be upgraded to the UL 300 standard. In case you are unfamiliar with UL 300, it is worth noting that Underwriters Laboratory introduced a new standard in 1994 for restaurant fire suppressions systems due to the introduction of vegetable oil as a cooking media (in place of lard) and higher efficiency cooking equipment. Additionally, the standard was based on extensive fire testing. The results of the testing revealed that to effectively extinguish a fire, it was necessary to use more agent and a higher agent flow rate, in some situations this was 3 to 4 times greater than the system designs available at the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to inspect my kitchen hood system?
A licensed technician will conduct a semi-annual kitchen inspection for food service businesses that operate year-round following NFPA standards.
What do you check during an inspection?
During an inspection we replace the fusible links semi-annually, considering all system components age and condition. Additionally, we conduct regular testing of all system functions, and our inspection report left with the customer shows a detailed list of all items checked.
How often do the links need to be replaced in my hood suppression system?
Links are replaced semi-annually during inspection.
How does my kitchen suppression system work?
When a fire is detected, the chemical agent tanks activate, dispersing liquid fire suppressant over the protected appliances, as well as throughout the hood and ductwork. When the liquid agent comes into contact with grease and cooking oils, it reacts to produce a protective foam blanket.
Do all kitchens need to have a suppression system?
No, it depends on the type of appliances you are using, if you have appliances that produce a grease laden vapor then most likely you will be required to have a Type 1 hood with a suppression system.
Do I still need fire extinguishers if I have a kitchen suppression system?
Yes, all commercial buildings must have fire extinguishers, if you have a kitchen suppression system, you must also have K-Class fire extinguishers.
Inspections & Service
Kitchen Suppression System Inspection
In this video our technician performs an inspection on a kitchen suppression system.
