TR19 Compliance Checklist for Commercial Kitchens

Maintaining a safe and efficient commercial kitchen involves more than just preparing delicious food. One critical aspect often overlooked is the cleanliness of the kitchen’s ductwork and ventilation systems. Ensuring compliance with TR19 specifications is essential for fire safety, hygiene, and operational efficiency. This blog provides a comprehensive TR19 compliance checklist for commercial kitchens to help you stay on top of necessary maintenance and avoid potential hazards.

What is TR19?

TR19 is a set of guidelines created by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) for the cleaning of ventilation systems, particularly in commercial kitchens. These guidelines are designed to reduce fire risks, improve indoor air quality, and ensure the efficient operation of ventilation systems.

Why is TR19 Compliance Important?

  1. Fire Safety: Grease buildup in kitchen ductwork is a major fire hazard.
  2. Health and Hygiene: Clean ventilation systems prevent the spread of contaminants.
  3. Regulatory Requirements: Many local authorities and insurance companies mandate TR19 compliance.
  4. Operational Efficiency: Properly maintained systems run more efficiently, saving energy and reducing wear and tear.

TR19 Compliance Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure your commercial kitchen meets TR19 specifications:

1. Regular Inspections

  • Frequency: Conduct inspections at least every 6 months, or more frequently depending on the level of usage and type of cooking.
  • Scope: Include all ductwork, hoods, filters, and extraction fans.
  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of all inspections, including dates, findings, and any remedial actions taken.

2. Cleaning Schedule

  • High-Use Kitchens: Clean ductwork every 1 to 3 months.
  • Moderate-Use Kitchens: Clean every 6 months.
  • Low-Use Kitchens: Clean annually.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: Increase cleaning frequency during high-use periods (e.g., holidays).
  • Insurance Adjustments: Your insurance provider may provide a cleaning schedule for you to maintain that will specify the frequency to comply with your insurance policy.

3. Cleaning Methods

  • Manual Scraping: For removing heavy grease deposits.
  • Rotary Brush Cleaning: Effective for duct walls and hard-to-reach areas.
  • Steam Cleaning: Sanitizes and removes tough grease buildup.
  • Chemicals: Use TR19-approved, non-toxic cleaning agents.

4. Ventilation Components

  • Hoods: Clean hoods and filters regularly to prevent grease buildup.
  • Filters: Replace or clean filters regularly depending on usage to maintain effectiveness.
  • Fans: Inspect and clean extraction fans to ensure they are functioning properly.

5. Documentation and Certification

  • Before-and-After Photos: Document the condition of ductwork before and after cleaning.
  • Inspection Reports: Maintain detailed reports of each inspection and cleaning session.
  • Compliance Certificates: Ensure you receive and file certificates of compliance from your cleaning service provider.

6. Professional Cleaning Services

  • Choose Certified Professionals: Hire BESA-certified cleaning services to ensure compliance with TR19 standards.
  • Verify Credentials: Check the qualifications and certifications of the cleaning service provider.
  • Regular Contracts: Set up regular maintenance contracts with your cleaning service to ensure consistent compliance.

7. Employee Training

  • Awareness: Train kitchen staff on the importance of food hygiene & fire compliance and proper cleaning procedures.
  • Procedures: Ensure staff know how to handle spills and clean hoods and filters between professional cleanings.

8. Fire Safety Measures

  • Fire Suppression Systems: Install and maintain fire suppression systems in the kitchen.
  • Fire Extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers readily accessible and ensure staff are trained to use them.
  • Emergency Plan: Develop and regularly update an emergency response plan for kitchen fires.

9. Maintenance of Cooking Equipment

  • Regular Cleaning: Ensure cooking equipment is cleaned daily to reduce grease accumulation.
  • Preventive Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for all kitchen equipment to prevent malfunctions that could lead to grease buildup.

10. Compliance Review

  • Annual Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of your TR19 compliance annually.
  • Audit: Consider hiring an external auditor to verify your compliance with TR19 standards.

Conclusion

Ensuring TR19 compliance in your commercial kitchen is essential for safety, hygiene, and operational efficiency. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment, reduce fire risks, and meet regulatory requirements.

At Andromeda we specialize in TR19-compliant ductwork and ventilation system cleaning for commercial kitchens. Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to helping you maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or cleaning service and ensure your kitchen stays TR19 compliant.

Keep your kitchen safe, clean, and compliant with Andromeda – your trusted partner in commercial kitchen duct cleaning.

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