If you run a commercial kitchen, proper ventilation isn’t just about comfort—it’s a legal requirement. Poor ventilation can lead to:
❌ Fire hazards due to grease build-up
❌ Legal penalties for non-compliance
❌ Kitchen closures if regulations aren’t met
Here’s what UK law says about keeping your kitchen compliant.
🔥 1. TR19 Grease Compliance
The TR19 standard is the gold standard for kitchen ventilation cleaning in the UK. It ensures that kitchen extraction and ductwork systems are cleaned regularly to prevent grease accumulation, which is a major fire risk.
How Often Should You Clean?
Cleaning frequency depends on how often your kitchen operates:
| Cooking Hours Per Day | Minimum Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| 12+ hours per day | Every 3 months (high risk) |
| 6–12 hours per day | Every 6 months (medium risk) |
| 2–6 hours per day | Every 12 months (low risk) |
💡 Not sure how often your system needs cleaning? Take our free TR19 Compliance Quiz to find out!
🔥 2. Fire Safety Regulations (BS 9999:2017)
All commercial kitchens must take fire risks seriously.
According to BS 9999:2017, grease-laden extraction systems must be:
✅ Fire-resistant to stop flames from spreading
✅ Regularly cleaned to remove flammable grease deposits
✅ Designed properly to ensure airflow prevents overheating
🔴 Non-compliance can lead to fines or closures under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
💡 Tip: Many fires in commercial kitchens start due to grease in ventilation systems. Regular cleaning reduces this risk significantly.
☠️ 3. COSHH Regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
Under the COSHH Regulations, kitchen owners must control hazardous substances in the air.
Poor ventilation can lead to:
⚠️ Grease vapour accumulation – leading to poor air quality
⚠️ Carbon monoxide build-up – which can cause serious health risks
⚠️ Respiratory issues for staff due to airborne contaminants
If you don’t comply, you could face:
❌ Legal action from employees affected by poor air quality
❌ Increased sickness & staff turnover
✅ A properly maintained extraction system ensures a safe working environment.
🛡 4. Insurance Requirements – Are You Covered?
Did you know? Most insurance companies require proof of extraction cleaning.
💰 If a fire occurs and your system wasn’t cleaned properly, your insurance claim could be rejected.
To stay covered, make sure you:
✔ Keep records of all ductwork and extraction cleaning
✔ Hire professionals for TR19-compliant cleans
✔ Check your policy’s ventilation maintenance clauses
🔴 Failing to meet insurance requirements can cost your business thousands in damages.
✅ How to Stay Compliant & Protect Your Kitchen
To avoid legal trouble, fire hazards, and insurance issues, make sure you:
✔ Book regular TR19 extraction cleaning (at least every 3, 6, or 12 months)
✔ Install correct ventilation and grease filters
✔ Keep records of all cleaning and maintenance work
Not sure where to start? Take our free TR19 Compliance Quiz to check if your kitchen is meeting the correct cleaning schedule.
🔥 Stay compliant, stay safe, and avoid costly fines! Need a professional TR19 clean? Get a free inspection today.