What Makes Grease Doors and Panels Vital for Your Commercial Kitchen
Commercial kitchen fires remain the number one threat to any restaurant. In the US alone, roughly 8,240 of these fires occur every year. Not only do many of them destroy the building and its assets, but they also lead to serious injuries and even casualties. In addition, these fires are almost always associated with a hood filter, exhaust fan, or a grease duct. When it comes to grease ducts, restaurant owners must adhere to strict codes. That includes proper installment and regular cleaning to reduce the risk of kitchen fires. Each grease duct must also have duct access doors that ensures the duct interior can be accessed for cleaning.
Are Grease Duct Access Doors Mandatory?
According to NFPA 96 standards for ventilation control and fire protection, any commercial kitchen with an exhaust system must have duct access panels. The panel ensures kitchens have proper ventilation as well as protection from fire and smoke. Below are the criteria for grease duct access doors.- Most grease ducts needs at least one access This ensures easy access whenever needed to help keep grease accumulation to a minimum.
- A horizontal exhaust should have an opening that measures 20 inches by 20 inches, if the duct size permits.
- If the grease duct is not large enough to have a 20 inch by 20 inch opening, you’ll need to have doors installed a 12-foot intervals . That way, an individual can easily and safely remove accumulated grease in smaller ducts.
- Both the ductwork and duct access panel or door must consist of the same material.
- All doors must have a grease-tight seal or gasket capable of withstanding up to 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- To eliminate the risk of fasteners poking through the duct’s wall surface, carbon steel and stainless steel are the only two acceptable materials for fasteners.
