TR19 Compliance: Everything You Need to Know
8 min read
The Fire Risk in Commercial Kitchens
Commercial kitchens are one of the highest fire-risk environments in any building. Grease-laden vapour from cooking accumulates in extraction systems, creating a highly flammable coating that can ignite from a simple flare-up on the hob.
According to fire service data, cooking-related fires account for a significant proportion of commercial property fires in the UK, with many originating in poorly maintained extraction systems.
How Extraction Cleaning Reduces Fire Risk
Professional extraction cleaning removes the accumulated grease that acts as fuel for fires. A clean system means that even if a flame enters the canopy, there is minimal grease to sustain or spread the fire.
Regular cleaning also ensures that fire dampers and safety systems within the ductwork are functioning correctly and not obstructed by grease buildup.
Insurance Implications
Most commercial kitchen insurance policies include conditions around maintenance and fire safety. If your extraction system hasn't been professionally cleaned to TR19 standards, your insurer may:
- Refuse to pay out on a fire claim
- Increase your premiums at renewal
- Add exclusions to your policy
- Cancel your cover entirely
Protecting Your Business
The best protection is a combination of regular professional cleaning, proper documentation and certificates, staff training on fire safety procedures, working fire suppression systems, and regular inspections between full cleans.
CKC Approved cleaners provide full TR19 documentation with every clean, giving you the evidence you need to satisfy both insurers and fire safety inspectors.
