Introduction to TR19 Certification

TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificates play a crucial role in the realm of restaurant compliance and safety. Developed by BESA (Building Engineering Services Association), these certificates are rooted in the TR19 standard, which outlines the best practices for maintaining kitchen extract systems. Understanding these certificates is essential for restaurant owners aiming to achieve compliance with health and safety regulations. 

The TR19 certification serve several key purposes: 

• Proof of Compliance: They provide verifiable proof that a restaurant has adhered to the stringent cleaning requirements mandated by the TR19 standard. 
• Health and Safety Assurance: These certificates confirm that the kitchen extract system is clean and free of grease build-up, reducing fire hazards and health risks. 
• Insurance Requirements: Often necessary for insurance purposes, TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificates can be critical in validating that a restaurant meets industry standards, which can affect insurance premiums and coverage. 

To obtain a TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificate, restaurants must undergo a thorough cleaning process conducted by VHR-qualified professionals. This involves several detailed steps: 

• Pre-clean Inspection: A comprehensive assessment of the kitchen extract system to evaluate grease levels and identify critical cleaning areas. 

• Detailed Cleaning: Implementing professional cleaning methods to remove all grease deposits from the system, including ductwork, fans, and hoods. 

• Post-clean Inspection: Conducting a final inspection to ensure all grease has been eliminated, meeting the TR19 standard requirements. 

Upon successful completion of these steps, a TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificate is issued. This certificate typically includes: 

• Date of Cleaning: The specific date when the cleaning procedure was carried out. 

• Areas Cleaned: Documentation of all sections of the kitchen extract system that were cleaned. 

• Next Scheduled Cleaning: Recommendations for when the next cleaning should be conducted based on usage and grease accumulation. 

In addition, reputable cleaning companies may use advanced technology, such as video inspection tools, to provide visual evidence of the cleanliness achieved. This added layer of verification helps solidify the credibility of the certificate. 

By adhering to the BESA standards and obtaining the TR19 certification, restaurants can ensure they are upholding the highest levels of cleanliness and safety, thereby fostering a safe dining environment for both staff and patrons. 

Understanding TR19 Certification Standards for Commercial Restaurants 

The TR19 standards are a set of guidelines and regulations instituted to ensure the safe and efficient management of grease and other particulates in commercial kitchen extract systems. These standards originated from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and are widely recognised throughout the UK. Not adhering to these guidelines could lead to various issues, including fire hazards, legal penalties, and hygiene concerns. 

Key Aspects of TR19 Standards 

Regular Cleaning Intervals: 

• Kitchens categorised as “Heavy Use” (e.g., continuous frying or chargrilling) should clean extract systems every three months. 

• “Moderate Use” kitchens must clean every six months. 

• “Light Use” establishments, such as those performing low-volume cooking, are required to clean annually. 

Cleanliness Verification: 

• Post-cleaning, the internal cleanliness of extract ductwork and components must be verified. 

• MIC (Micron Thickness) readings are used to measure residual grease thickness, which must not surpass 50µm for high-risk areas. 

Documentation and Reporting: 

• Detailed records of cleaning must be maintained, including before and after photographs. 

• Verification certificates should be readily available, offering proof of compliance for inspectors and insurance providers. 

Access and Maintenance: 

• Adequate access points must be installed to facilitate thorough cleaning. 

• Maintenance schedules should be strictly followed to minimise risk and ensure systems perform efficiently. 

Fire Risk Management: 

• The buildup of grease and contaminants can elevate fire risks. Regular cleaning as per TR19 guidelines significantly reduces this risk. 

• Compliance offers peace of mind for restaurant operators and aligns with insurers’ recommendations to meet policy requirements. 

Benefits for Commercial Restaurants 

• Improved Air Quality: Ensuring ventilation systems are clean enhances the establishment’s air quality, contributing to better employee and customer comfort. 

• Cost Efficiency: Regular maintenance according to TR19 standards helps prevent costly repairs and avoids potential fines related to non-compliance. 

• Health and Safety: Reduces the risk of fire and contamination in the kitchen, creating a safer workplace. 

• Reputation Management: Compliance reflects professionalism and dedication to maintaining high operational standards, positively impacting the restaurant’s reputation. 

Understanding and implementing TR19 standards is crucial for all commercial kitchen operators. These guidelines provide the framework for ensuring safety, compliance, and operational efficiency, paramount in maintaining a successful restaurant business. 

The Role of Grease Cleaning in Commercial Kitchen Safety 

In commercial kitchens, the regular cleaning of grease plays a critical role in ensuring both the safety and operational efficiency of the establishment. Accumulated grease in kitchens can lead to several hazards that compromise safety. 

Fire Hazards 

• Grease is highly flammable. When it accumulates in kitchen exhaust systems, it significantly increases the risk of kitchen fires. 

• Regular grease cleaning helps in reducing the build-up in hoods, ducts, and fans, mitigating the potential for fire outbreaks. 

Air Quality 

• Clean kitchen exhaust systems contribute to better indoor air quality. 

• Grease accumulation can trap odours and smoke, making the kitchen environment unpleasant and potentially harmful to health. 

Health and Hygiene 

• Accumulated grease fosters bacterial growth, which can contaminate food and surfaces. 
• Clean kitchens reduce the likelihood of foodborne illnesses. 
• Regular maintenance ensures compliance with health codes and regulations, preventing potential fines and closures. 

Efficiency and Maintenance 

• Clean exhaust systems operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption. 

• Regular grease removal extends the lifespan of kitchen equipment. 

• Maintenance costs are lowered as systems perform optimally with reduced risk of malfunction. 

Staff Safety 

• Grease spills on floors create slippery surfaces, posing a slip-and-fall hazard. 

• A clean kitchen environment reduces the risk of accidents, promoting a safer workspace for staff. 

Periodically cleaning grease not only ensures a safer environment but also contributes to the overall maintenance and longevity of the kitchen infrastructure. It is imperative for commercial kitchens to incorporate regular grease cleaning schedules to uphold safety, hygiene, and efficiency. Interested stakeholders should consult the TR19 grease certification guidelines to ensure compliance and optimal kitchen operations. 

Regulatory Requirements: Why TR19 Compliance is Mandatory 

TR19 compliance is critical for restaurant operations. The TR19 guidelines, established by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), set the standard for the cleanliness and maintenance of kitchen extract systems. These standards are essential to ensure safety and regulatory adherence. 

Fire Safety 

Kitchen extract systems accumulate grease, which poses a significant fire hazard. TR19 compliance mandates regular cleaning and maintenance to minimise this risk. Fire outbreaks originating from grease-laden ductwork can lead to severe property damage, injuries, and fatalities. 

Legal Obligations 

Restaurants are legally required to adhere to health and safety regulations, encompassing the TR19 standards. Non-compliance may result in hefty fines, lawsuits, and potential closure of the business: 

• Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974: This Act obligates employers to ensure the safety of their workers and the public. 

• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: Requires proper management of fire risks, which includes maintained extract systems. 

• Food Safety Act 1990: Enforces hygiene standards to avoid contamination and health hazards. 

Insurance Requirements 

Insurance providers often demand proof of TR19 compliance before offering coverage. Without compliance, insurance claims for fire damages may be denied, leaving businesses financially exposed. Regular inspections and cleaning documentation should be maintained to satisfy insurers’ prerequisites. 

Restaurant Hygiene 

Grease build-up isn’t just a fire risk but also a hygiene issue. Poorly maintained extraction systems can lead to grease dripping onto cooking surfaces, contaminating food and violating food safety standards. TR19 compliance is therefore also critical for maintaining a clean and safe kitchen environment. 

Environmental Concerns 

Improperly managed grease can enter and damage the surrounding environment, polluting local waterways and harming wildlife. Adhering to TR19 guidelines can prevent such environmental hazards by ensuring systems are adequately maintained and waste is properly disposed of. 

Business Reputation 

Maintaining TR19 compliance reflects a restaurant’s commitment to safety and hygiene. This can enhance customer trust and protect the establishment’s reputation. Reports and certificates of compliance can be shared with patrons, showcasing a dedication to top-tier standards. 

Ultimately, the mandatory nature of TR19 compliance is rooted in safety, legal requirements, insurance, hygiene, environmental protection, and business integrity. 

Key Components of a TR19 Grease Cleaning Procedure 

To ensure compliance with the TR19 standards for restaurant grease extraction systems, several key components must be meticulously addressed. These components are designed to maintain safety, hygiene, and efficiency within commercial kitchens. 

Initial Risk Assessment 

• The process begins with a thorough evaluation of the grease extraction system. 

• Identifies potential hazards and areas requiring attention. 

• Involves checking for the presence of excessive grease build-up, blockages, and wear and tear. 

Preparation and Safety Measures 

• Establishing safety protocols to protect cleaning personnel and kitchen operations. 

• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and goggles. 

• Ensuring fire suppression systems are deactivated and utility connections are secure. 

Disconnection and Inspection 

• System disconnection begins by turning off electrical and gas supplies. 

• Inspection of all components, including ducts, hoods, fans, and filters. 

• Identification of damaged or overly contaminated parts that may need replacement. 

Grease Removal Techniques 

• Utilising methods such as scrubbing, scraping, and vacuuming to remove surface grease. 

• Use of specialised degreasers and cleaning agents to break down grease deposits. 

• Application of steam cleaning or pressure washing to tackle stubborn areas. 

Systematic Cleaning Approach 

• Cleaning of ducts from top to bottom to prevent re-contamination. 

• Ensuring hoods, filters, and fans are thoroughly cleaned, and grease catchment areas are emptied and sanitised. 

• Reassembling and checking all components for functionality. 

Final Verification and Testing 

• Conducting a final inspection to verify cleanliness and operational status. 

• Running tests on the system to ensure that it functions correctly post-cleaning. 

• Documenting the cleaning process and outcomes for compliance records. 

Regular Maintenance Schedule 

• Scheduling regular TR19 compliance checks and cleanings based on kitchen activity and grease production. 

• Maintaining a detailed log of cleaning and maintenance activities. 

• Training staff to recognise signs of grease build-up and the importance of reporting issues. 

Certification and Reporting 

• Obtaining certification upon successful completion of the cleaning procedure. 

• Providing necessary documentation to relevant authorities and ensuring compliance with TR19 standards. 

• Keeping records accessible for inspections by fire safety officials or health inspectors. 

Health Implications for Staff and Customers 

Maintaining a clean and compliant kitchen environment is crucial for the health and safety of both staff and customers. TR19 grease certification ensures that commercial kitchens adhere to stringent standards, preventing various health risks. 

Risks for Staff 

• Respiratory Issues: Accumulated grease can lead to the emission of harmful fumes and particles, increasing the risk of respiratory issues such as asthma. 

• Skin Irritation: Frequent contact with grease and cleaning agents can cause dermatitis and other skin conditions. 

• Slip Hazards: Greasy surfaces are slippery, contributing to a higher incidence of falls and injuries among kitchen staff. 

• Fire Hazards: Grease build-up can serve as a catalyst for kitchen fires, posing severe health risks and potential fatalities. 

Risks for Customers 

• Contaminated Food: Grease build-up can lead to contamination, causing foodborne illnesses like salmonella and E. coli. 

• Poor Air Quality: Untreated grease can affect indoor air quality, leading to discomfort and potential respiratory problems for diners. 

• Allergenic Reactions: Contaminants in grease can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals. 

Preventive Measures 

• Regular Cleaning: Systematic cleaning of hoods, ducts, and other kitchen equipment helps to minimise grease accumulation. 

• Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation systems reduce the circulation of harmful particles and improve air quality. 

• Staff Training: Educating staff on proper cleaning procedures and the importance of TR19 compliance ensures a safer working environment. 

• Routine Inspections: Periodic inspections by certified professionals guarantee that the kitchen remains compliant with TR19 standards. 

In conclusion, obtaining TR19 grease certification is not just a regulatory requirement but also a vital measure for safeguarding the health of both staff and customers. Proper adherence to these standards significantly reduces the risk of health hazards, ensuring a safer and more pleasant dining experience for all. 

Environmental Impact of Grease Build-Up and Proper Cleaning 

Grease build-up in restaurant kitchen ducts and exhaust systems poses a significant environmental threat. The accumulation of grease can lead to several harmful effects on the environment if not managed properly. Key impacts include: 

Air Quality Degradation: 

• Excessive grease in exhaust systems can result in poor air filtration, releasing harmful particulates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. 

• These pollutants contribute to smog formation, impacting urban air quality and exacerbating respiratory issues for city inhabitants. 

Water Pollution: 

• Improper cleaning methods may result in grease entering sewage systems. This can cause blockages and overflows, leading to untreated grease and other contaminants reaching natural water bodies. 

• Grease-contaminated water adversely affects aquatic life and disrupts local ecosystems. 

Soil Contamination: 

• Disposing of grease improperly can lead to soil contamination. This happens when grease is dumped onto landfills or improperly managed soil beds. 

• Contaminated soil not only affects plant growth but also poses risks to the surrounding wildlife and food chains. 

Increased Fire Hazards: 

• Accumulated grease in duct systems can ignite, resulting in uncontrollable fires. This not only endangers human life but also results in the release of toxic gases and significant carbon emissions. 

• Frequent fire incidents strain local fire departments and increase greenhouse gas emissions. 

Proper cleaning of grease build-up is essential to mitigate these environmental impacts. Steps to ensure efficient grease management include: 

• Regular Maintenance: Establish routine cleaning schedules for exhaust systems to prevent grease build-up. 

• Use of Eco-Friendly Cleaners: Opt for biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning agents to minimise water and soil pollution. 

• Professional Cleaning Services: Employ certified professionals who are knowledgeable about safe and environmentally friendly cleaning practices. 

• Grease Traps and Interceptors: Install these devices to capture grease before it enters waste systems, ensuring proper disposal and reducing environmental contamination. 

By adhering to these practices, restaurants can significantly reduce their environmental footprint, enhance safety, and comply with TR19 regulations effectively. 

Steps to Obtain a TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificate 

Obtaining a TR19 Grease Cleaning Certificate is crucial for ensuring compliance with industry standards in restaurant and commercial kitchen environments. These steps outline the process: 

Initial Assessment

The first step is conducting an initial assessment of the kitchen’s ventilation and extraction systems. 

• Engage a Certified Professional: Hire a qualified TR19 certified technician. 

• System Inspection: The technician will inspect components such as hoods, fans, and ductwork. 

Pre-cleaning Report

Before cleaning begins, a detailed report is prepared. 

• Documentation of Current State: Note the levels of grease accumulation and potential hazards. 

• Photographic Evidence: Images are taken to document the status of all equipment and ductwork. 

Cleaning Process

The actual cleaning is performed by trained professionals using specialised equipment. 

• Degreasing the System: Apply industrial degreasers to break down grease deposits. 

• Manual and Mechanical Cleaning: Combine manual scrubbing with power washing or rotary brush systems. 

• Focus Areas: Pay extra attention to hoods, filters, and hard-to-reach ductwork. 

Post-cleaning Inspection

A follow-up inspection is conducted to ensure the cleaning meets TR19 standards. 

• Verification: Inspect and verify that all components are cleaned to compliance. 
• Photographic Documentation: Take after-cleaning photographs for comparison.