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Alexis Colquhoun

TR19 Kitchen Cleaning Compliance: What It Is and Why It Matters

Updated: Nov 1

Introduction

TR19 compliance is a crucial standard for commercial kitchen cleaning that regulates the cleanliness and maintenance of kitchen extraction and ventilation systems. Over time, these systems can accumulate grease, which poses significant fire safety risks if left uncleaned.

A sign saying TR19 Kitchen Cleaning

Following TR19 compliance keeps your kitchen safe, lowers fire risks, and ensures legal adherence.

Regular maintenance of kitchen ventilation systems reduces fire hazards and enhances airflow and energy efficiency, which is crucial for the smooth operation of any commercial kitchen.

What is TR19 Compliance?

TR19 originated as a best practice guide from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and has become a recognised industry standard for commercial kitchen cleaning. The standard ensures that kitchens maintain cleanliness in their ductwork and ventilation systems to prevent fire safety hazards. Removing extraction and ventilation systems from grease is critical in TR19 kitchen cleaning compliance, especially for busy commercial kitchens.


Levels of commercial kitchen operation and the frequency in which each one should be getting a commercial clean and TR19 certification.

TR19 compliance is measured based on the grease accumulation level and the frequency of kitchen usage. Depending on these factors, businesses may receive certification for up to 12 months. However, high-traffic commercial kitchens—such as those in restaurants, hotels, and care homes—may need to schedule professional kitchen cleaning services every 3 to 6 months to remain compliant and uphold fire safety standards.


Compliance is not Optional!

Compliance with TR19 kitchen cleaning standards is not optional—it's a legal requirement for any business operating a commercial kitchen. Non-compliance can lead to fines, closures, and even increased insurance premiums. For companies like restaurants, hotels, nursing homes, and other businesses, staying compliant with TR19 regulations ensures a safe environment for staff and customers, significantly reducing fire hazards.

Clipboard with ticks to signify compliance with commercial kitchen safety.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Neglecting TR19 compliance can result in severe financial and operational consequences for commercial kitchens. Grease buildup in ventilation and duct systems increases the risk of fire and affects the efficiency of your kitchen's airflow. This leads to poor performance and higher energy costs and can even cause safety violations during a fire safety inspection. Non-compliance with TR19 standards could also lead to fines and insurance problems, especially if a lack of proper kitchen cleaning is discovered.

Real-Life Examples of Non-Compliance

Many businesses have faced devastating consequences due to negligence in maintaining TR19 compliance. For example, commercial kitchens have been shut down due to fire hazards caused by grease buildup in ventilation systems. One incident involved a popular restaurant that suffered a fire because of neglected kitchen cleaning, resulting in major damage, a prolonged closure, and significant revenue loss. These examples illustrate how critical regular TR19-compliant cleaning is for preventing fire and operational risks in commercial kitchens.

Man working in a commercial kitchen.

The Role of Professional Cleaning Services

Hiring a professional kitchen cleaning service specialising in TR19 compliance ensures that your business stays safe and within legal requirements. Professional services bring expert knowledge to inspect and clean kitchen extraction systems, ducts, and ventilation to eliminate grease buildup. These professionals provide maintenance plans tailored to your specific kitchen needs, helping you consistently meet TR19 kitchen cleaning and fire safety standards while reducing risks.

Conclusion

Investing in TR19 compliance goes beyond avoiding fines; it’s about protecting your kitchen from dangerous fire hazards and maintaining smooth operations. A professional commercial kitchen cleaning service ensures your kitchen remains safe, compliant, and efficient year-round. Schedule regular cleanings and compliance checks with professionals experienced in TR19 standards to keep your business running safely and smoothly.

Working with an expert TR19-compliant cleaning service also ensures your business is prepared for surprise inspections, safeguarding your reputation and maintaining operational continuity.


Don't risk non-compliance book a TR19 consultation today!


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