Commercial kitchen fire suppression systems are designed to keep a fire that has started on a kitchen appliance such as a stove or deep fat fryer from raging out of control. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 61% of fires in eating and drinking establishments are caused by cooking equipment.
As a restaurant owner, it’s important to know how a kitchen fire suppression system works, where it should be installed, and the peace-of-mind it affords.
How the systems work.
Kitchen fire suppression systems are highly effective fire containment systems. Once a fire is detected, the system’s nozzles discharge wet chemicals from above the appliance. The wet chemicals cover the flames and starve the fire. Once the system is activated, it disconnects the gas line to the appliance. The hood automatically turns on to remove the smoke caused by the fire. The rest of the kitchen remains unaffected with minimal damage caused to the cooking area.
Where systems are installed.
Being able to protect a wide variety of kitchen appliances, a kitchen fire suppression system is typically installed over stove tops, within the cooker hood, in adjacent cupboards, or even above deep fryers. The system’s nozzles are installed in the kitchen hood exhaust in both small and large kitchens.
How you benefit.
The obvious benefit of a commercial kitchen fire suppression system is protecting your employees and patrons from the dangers of a fire. The system works effectively to minimize fire damage, reducing potential repair costs and loss of income during the time it takes to meet code requirements. As a critical fire safety measure to protect your restaurant investment, it is important to remember to keep up with regularly scheduled semi-annual inspections to ensure it can work effectively in the case of a kitchen fire.
For your semi-annual inspections, contact Total Fire Protection. Learn about our kitchen fire suppression systems and services. Call (718) 785-8297 to speak with a fire and life safety specialist.
