What Does a Kitchen Extract System Audit Involve?

In the UK, commercial kitchens must adhere to strict health and safety regulations. A key part of this is ensuring that ventilation systems, particularly kitchen extract systems, are regularly cleaned and maintained. These systems play a crucial role in removing smoke, steam, and cooking fumes, helping to achieve a safer and more pleasant kitchen environment. A kitchen extract system audit helps ensure that the system is functioning effectively whilst complying with regulations. Read on to learn what this audit involves and why it’s essential for your commercial kitchen’s safety and efficiency.

Key Steps in a Kitchen Extract System Audit

A professional kitchen extract system audit provides a thorough assessment of your system, ensuring it operates efficiently and meets safety standards. Here are the key steps involved in the process:

• Initial Inspection: A kitchen cleanliness audit  begins with a thorough inspection of the extract system. This involves checking all components, including the ducts, filters, canopy, fans, and vents, for any signs of damage or blockages. Detailed photographic images are taken to show the levels of grease build-up, which are often measured in micron readings to ensure precision. A schematic drawing of the system may also be included, providing a clear visual overview.
• Assessing Cleaning and Maintenance: One of the primary goals of the audit is to ensure that the system is being cleaned and maintained properly. Grease build-up within the system not only compromises air quality but can be a significant fire hazard. The audit will confirm that grease management has been carried out according to the necessary standards, with cleaning practices that meet TR19® Grease guidelines.
• Airflow and Performance Testing: Proper airflow is crucial for the proper functioning of a kitchen extract system. The audit will include airflow testing to confirm that the system is removing smoke, steam, and cooking fumes effectively. Restricted airflow due to grease build-up can lead to poor ventilation and pose a fire hazard. Identifying any airflow issues during the audit can help to ensure the system operates at its best.
• Risk Assessment and Fire Safety Measures: A key aspect of the audit involves assessing the risk of fire within the kitchen extract system. This involves assessing the system for potential fire hazards related to grease build-up or electrical faults. The audit will identify any areas where fire safety could be compromised, ensuring that all necessary fire prevention measures are in place. This might include checking for the proper installation of fire dampers and fire suppression systems.
• Compliance with Legal and Insurance Requirements: The audit checks that the system is fully compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, along with other relevant fire safety regulations. This helps to mitigate the risk of fire hazards whilst ensuring the safety of employees and customers. By ensuring compliance with these legal requirements, the audit helps businesses maintain a safe kitchen environment as well as avoid potential legal issues or penalties.A kitchen extract system audit is a vital part of ensuring a safe and efficient commercial kitchen environment. Get in touch with the team at Swiftclean to discuss your requirements.