Safety First: How Proper Vent Hood Maintenance Protects School Buildings 

Published:
January 9, 2024

CR Systems, Inc.

In the hands of school building managers, safety of students and staff remains a top priority. While they have countless responsibilities, one crucial aspect that often goes unnoticed is the ventilation and roofing systems of school cafeterias and kitchens. Recent statistics reveal that a significant portion of commercial restaurant fires, up to 64%, can be traced back to neglected hood and vent systems. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to clean your vent hoods and explain why having a well-maintained vent hood and roofing system is crucial for the safety of students and staff. 

Understanding the Risks: The Culprit Within

Vents and hoods play a crucial role in removing cooking fumes and particulates from your school's interior environment. However, heavier waste, especially fat, can adhere to both the exterior and interior of ventilation systems, creating a highly flammable buildup. If a fire infiltrates the ventilation system, it becomes exponentially more difficult and dangerous to suppress, often resulting in massive damage throughout the entire building. 

The Protective Role of Roofs: A Barrier Against Fires 

Enter the roof – a silent hero in fire suppression. A well-maintained roof acts as a protective barrier, containing fires and minimizing damage. It is crucial to have a properly functioning ventilation system and professionally installed hoods and roof vents. This ensures that fire suppression becomes a manageable challenge. 

Aside from the foundational understanding of the risks, consider these practical tips to enhance the effectiveness of your vent hood cleaning routine: 

1. Prioritize Grease Traps: Regularly clean and empty grease traps to prevent the buildup of grease within the ventilation system.
   
2. Use Non-Corrosive Cleaners: Opt for non-corrosive, degreasing cleaners to break down grease without causing damage to the hood and ventilation components. 
   
3. Clean Hood Exteriors: Wipe down exterior surfaces regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, contributing to better hygiene. 
   
4. Inspect Fan Blades: Regularly inspect and clean fan blades to ensure they are free from grease buildup, preserving their efficiency. 
   
5. Check for Leaks: Inspect the vent hood for signs of leaks during the cleaning process and promptly address any issues to maintain a dry and safe kitchen space. 
   
6. Consider Steam Cleaning: Incorporate steam cleaning into your routine to break down stubborn grease and provide a deep clean. 
   
7. Document Maintenance History: Maintain a detailed record of all vent hood maintenance activities to track system performance over time. 
   
8. Train Staff on Best Practices: Educate kitchen staff on proper cooking practices and recognizing early signs of vent hood issues. 
   
9. Review Local Codes and Regulations: Stay informed about local fire and safety codes related to commercial kitchen ventilation. 
   
10. Schedule Professional Inspections: Include periodic professional inspections as part of your maintenance plan to identify potential issues.