Are you running a business that requires you to have a large kitchen? If you are, you should know the National Fire Protection Association codes regarding exhaust systems. Over time, your kitchen exhaust system would collect combustible grease that is known to be a fire hazard if left unchecked. The NFPA requires a duct access panel installed, especially in commercial establishments.
Why Have an Access Panel
There are countless benefits to installing an access panel in your kitchen aside from abiding by regulations and codes and preventing a fire. The buildup of grease and other contaminants can become a significant problem in big kitchens. Aside from fires, you could end up dealing with foul odours, health problems, and breaking the hygiene code or requirement in commercial establishments that serve food.
To prevent this, ensure your exhaust systems get the cleaning they need. To avoid any delays or problems during the cleaning, having the right access panel to provide easy entry to your exhaust system is a must. Aside from the cleaning requirement stated in the NFPA code:
“Section 50.5.4 requires the entire exhaust system to be inspected for grease buildup by a properly trained, qualified, and certified person(s) acceptable to the AHJ and in accordance with Table 50.5.4.”
“Section 50.5.6.1 delineates between the inspection frequency and when cleaning is required. It states that if upon inspection, the exhaust system is found to be contaminated with deposits from grease-laden vapours, the contaminated portions of the exhaust systems shall be cleaned by a properly trained, qualified, and certified person(s) acceptable to the AHJ. This requirement delineates between the inspection frequency and when cleaning is required.”
The code also states the requirement of an access panel to enable proper inspection and cleaning:
“NFPA-96 4.1.8: This regulation requires that all parts of an exhaust system have access panels or doors to enable full cleaning of the system.”
The code also states that exhaust systems need a routine inspection by a professional to ensure safety and fire prevention. If the review finds significant problems with your exhaust systems, your business might face foreclosure, or you could end up with fines.
Main Benefits of Access Panels
Aside from easy cleaning, you would also be able to maintain your exhaust systems more routinely with an access panel. Routine maintenance would help you save money on possible costs for replacements and repairs of your ducts and even your kitchen equipment which could deteriorate over time when exposed to contaminants. Listed below are the benefits of having an access panel:
Protect your kitchen equipment: Since your kitchens are in use constantly, the number of contaminants, germs, dirt, and grease is large. Exposure to this would cause diseases and deterioration of your kitchen equipment and components.
Deterioration in the plumbing systems of your kitchen could cause leaks, contamination, and property damage. An access panel separating these integral components from your kitchen would help protect them from deterioration and vice versa.
Easy inspection and cleaning: It is important the ducts, plumbing systems, and wirings of your kitchen have routine inspections and cleaning. Under the code, an expert should do the inspection. Routine inspections help spot possible problems and concerns before harming your property and business.
Fire prevention: The buildup of grease in large commercial kitchens is one of the problems you must consider as it creates a fire hazard. It would be best to separate combustible particles like grease from the wirings of your property. It would also be safer if a fire-rated door could act as a buffer between the grease and the possible components.
Choosing the Right Exhaust Duct Access Panel
You can read the NFPA code regarding exhaust ducts in commercial spaces, especially large production kitchens, to avoid problems with the law and the possible closure of your business. If you plan to have them installed, keep in mind these duct access guidelines to ensure that you install the right access panel.
“NFPA-96 5.1.2: All areas of the system that channel grease and exhaust vapours must have a tight and continuous weld that’s watertight, and this external weld must continue to the lower part of the outermost perimeter of the hood.”
“NFPA-96 7.3.1: Access panels must be located on the sides or tops of ducts–whichever area is more accessible–and where ducts change directions.”
“NFPA-96 7.4.1.1: Horizontal ducts require a 20” by 20” opening to provide human access.”
“NFPA-96 7. 4.1.2: If duct size doesn’t allow a 20” by 20” opening, an opening must be large enough to allow cleaning.”
“NFPA-96 7.4.1.3: Openings on horizontal systems must be accessible by a 10-foot stepladder or a dedicated work platform.”
“NFPA-96 7.4.2.2: If entry isn’t possible, suitable access for cleaning must be provided.”
“NFPA-96 7.5.2.1: All seams, joints, connections and penetrations must have a watertight continuous external weld.”
If you are looking for an access panel that follows the NFPA regulation codes, know that Access Doors and Panels have the one for you. You can request a quote today!
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