Recognising the special fire risks inherent in commercial kitchen ventilation systems, the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) has released a special safety bulletin for industry.
"Fire safety – Kitchen hood exhaust systems" is a free online technical bulletin that offers an in-depth look at the special fire risks associated with commercial kitchen ventilation systems.
The bulletin aims to highlight the main fire safety issues, promote a common language, and improve understanding of the risks and resulting responsibilities of all participants in the supply chain, from design and installation through to operation and continuing maintenance.
AIRAH CEO, Tony Gleeson, said kitchen exhaust systems continue to feature prominently in commercial building fire events.
“We have been advised there was $30 million worth of damage in just five incidents of businesses burning down in 2014," he said.
"There are simple ways to avoid kitchen fires, and they should be implemented.
“And now, amid recent updates to relevant Australian Standards, as well as recent changes to the maintenance requirements and focus of the NCC, it is more important than ever to help address misunderstandings and misconceptions.”
The technical bulletin was prepared by AIRAH in collaboration with a range of AIRAH members, industry regulatory organisations, state governments, fire authorities and individuals.
Developed with a wide-ranging focus, the bulletin can be used by everyone from technical service providers and facilities managers to operators of commercial kitchens, building surveyors, body corporates, local councils, property assessors and insurance companies.
Divided into 10 sections, the 20-page bulletin covers topics such as inherent risks and the specific maintenance and inspection strategies aimed at mitigating these fire-event risks.
The technical bulletin’s editor Vince Aherne, said the bulletin will improve industry performance and hopefully reduce the frequency of serious fires in buildings.
To download the technical bulletin, go to www.airah.org.au/technicalresources