Fire codes require commercial kitchens to install fire suppression systems to protect exhaust equipment and cooking appliances.
A kitchen fire is something restaurateurs fear. Even with proper fire prevention practices, there’s always a risk something may go wrong. Fire codes require commercial kitchens to install fire suppression systems to protect exhaust equipment and cooking appliances. Like any other system, kitchen fire suppression systems must be inspected regularly. Whether your suppression system is new or a few years old, here are some things to know about fire suppression system inspections.
Professional Inspections Occur Semi-Annually
NFPA codes require that kitchen suppression systems be inspected by a certified technician every six months. Not only will this help ensure the system is operating correctly, but a certified professional will have access to replacement parts. Fire suppression professionals will conduct inspections and testing of every component of the system, including:
- Duct, appliance, and blow-off caps
- Link line and detectors
- Remote pull stations and control components
- Piping
- Verification of test dates of regulator and cylinders
- And much more
Conduct Your Own In-House Inspection Every Month
While it is required that a certified and trained technician inspect your system twice a year, the restaurant owner should perform a simple visual inspection each month. Here’s what to look for:
- Discharge nozzles must be pointed at the right appliance
- Check for any buildup of grease and dirt in the exhaust hood
- Ensure that the tamper indicator is intact
- Make sure the pull station is accessible and not blocked by boxes or shelving
- Verify the date of the last inspection
Make sure you call your fire protection company if the fire suppression system discharges for any reason.
Keep a Copy of Inspection Results for Insurance and Compliance Records
After an inspection has been completed and the acceptance test has been approved, the fire technician will provide compliance documentation for the restaurant. The documentation includes:
- New marked service tag, visibly attached to the system cylinder
- Notes of repairs that were made or any system discrepancy to be addressed
Make sure to always keep this documentation on hand to maintain compliance with insurance and code requirements. When your number one priority is serving the best food to your guests, the last thing you’d want to worry about is the condition of your fire suppression system. Avoid this by partnering with a fire protection company that will handle all the details for you, from tracking inspection records to completing repairs or maintenance tasks.
Fire Protection Services from Fireline
Whether you need smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or an automatic sprinkler system installed at your commercial property, Fireline has you covered. We have been protecting people and property from fire damage since 1947—and our experience shows in our excellent work! We are known for our superb customer service, our expertise, and our reliability. For more information on how we can help your residential or commercial property, visit us online or give us a call at (800) 553-3405. We are in Baltimore, MD, with a second office in Leesburg, VA. For more fire safety tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.