Commercial kitchens are subject to regulation because of the ventilation that is required and the risk of fire that they can pose if correct guidance is not followed. To stay on the right side of your legal requirements, it’s vital to be familiar with commercial kitchen regulations in the UK. This will help you avoid stepping over gas safe regulations and will guarantee that your cafe, restaurant, or catering establishment is fully legit and meets all expectations.
Here are some answers to common questions on the ventilation of commercial kitchens. Whilst it is impossible for this article to be a complete resource, it should answer a number of common questions and it does point to further more detailed resources.
What is a gas interlock system?
It’s probably not surprising that commercial kitchen ventilation is a must. Gas Interlock Systems are designed to shut off the gas supply to commercial kitchens in the event of a fan failure. They also help to ensure that the airflow rates achieved by commercial kitchen extraction systems meet the minimum standards as set out by the Building & Engineering Services Legislations DW/172 (The Specification of Kitchen Ventilation Systems).
In short, a gas interlock system is a device that is used to prevent commercial gas equipment being used unless there is adequate canopy extraction.
It must be specifically designed to work according to gas interlock system regulations to ensure that the commercial kitchen is safe and hazard-free for all employees, clients, and partners. As a result of the work of gas interlock systems, the build-up of carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide is minimized, leading to the reduction of gas-related accidents.
How does a gas Interlock system work?
Gas interlock systems operate by monitoring the operation of the fan or fans within the extraction system. This can be achieved by two methods. Firstly, a differential air pressure switch can be used, this senses the static air pressure, the pressure switch can be set to different levels of sensitivity to achieve a shut off at the required level of air throughout. Alternatively, an electrical current sensor can be used instead of an air pressure switch, this monitors the electrical current to the fan to achieve the same objective.
Most gas interlock systems will be equipped with an inbuilt sensor that is responsible for tracking airflow and making sure that the duct systems within the ventilation system are functioning to the fullest capacity. Considering that the airflow is good and the system is working with no flaws, the sensor will permit gas to enter the appliances and circulate.
To make sure that everything is working properly, it’s best to rely on a professional commercial kitchen gas interlock system kit that will meet all regulations and legal requirements.
Is a gas interlock system a legal requirement?
So why do you need a gas safety interlock system? Are there any gas regulations that you must be aware of – in short, yes.
According to the UK’s gas safety regulations and the British Standard BS6173, any food business operating a commercial kitchen must install a gas safety interlock system. Therefore, you need to have a gas safety interlock system fitted to comply with the law. There are certain gas installation regulations in the UK that you should be aware of.
Gas Safety Regulations and Obligations
There are a number of gas safe requirements that all owners of cafes, restaurants or other similar businesses should be aware of to avoid fines and operational disruptions. Let’s explore the gas regulations in the UK and the obligations according to the Gas Safety (installation and use regulations) 1998 and the Gas Appliance (safety regulations) 1995.
- All commercial kitchen owners must make sure that all gas appliances, pipework, fuels, as well as safety devices are safe and hazard-free to use. All devices must be in perfect working conditions and without any flaws.
- All gas appliances must be inspected once a year at a minimum. How often your equipment must be inspected also depends on the appliance type, how you use it and how often it is used, and more. However, the once-a-year inspection is a requirement for all.
- It’s essential that all employees operating gas appliances are thoroughly instructed and trained on using the appliances. They must also be confident to visually inspect and examine for any flaws and potential threats.
- It’s a requirement that you choose professional, experienced, and most importantly – certified experts for the installation of gas appliances. A certified expert will have passed the GSIUR examination and will have the legal right to carry out his work.
By installing a gas safety interlock system in your kitchen, you’re making sure that you meet the requirements and regulations. It’s also vital to be aware of commercial gas pipework installation regulations, gas isolation valve regulations, and more.
Commercial kitchen ventilation regulations and requirements
When it comes to commercial kitchen gas regulations in the UK, there is a lot to remember. Inability to guarantee the gas safety of your commercial kitchen or inability to meet all kitchen ventilation requirements and regulations could lead to:
- Prosecution by HSE (Health and Safety Executive).
Mandatory business closure until you fully meet all gas safety regulations and install all the necessary safety systems. - A range of health and safety risks.
- Substantial fines.
- A potential threat to the future of your business is you are unable to pass the mandatory commercial gas safety inspection.
What is a CP42 certificate?
A CP42 certificate (Commercial Gas Safety Inspection (non-domestic)) is the official name for the safety certificate that is issued annually by a registered Gas Safe engineer to cover all installation and appliances in commercial kitchens. These typically cover all gas appliances, pipework, extraction & interlock systems. These certificates specifically target commercial kitchen facilities. Included in these regulations are:
- Restaurants & Cafes
- Take-away shops
- Catering businesses
- Staff canteens
- Food production centres
Do I need a CP42 Gas Safety Certificate?
Yes, if you have a commercial kitchen with gas appliances. You have a legal duty to ensure that any gas equipment on your premises is checked and certified by a gas safe qualified engineer at least once every year. Your insurance cover will almost certainly depend on you having a current CP42 Gas Safety Certificate.
If you lease your property, don’t assume this is the responsibility of the Landlord. Usually, leases include clauses that pass responsibility for gas safety to the leaseholder.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Gas Safety Interlock System
If you’ve decided that it’s time to invest in a gas safety interlock system, there are a few factors that it’s vital to consider:
- Price – Price is perhaps one of the most important factors when investing in a gas safety interlock system. After all, you don’t want to invest more than you can afford or put your whole business at risk. However, keep in mind that too inexpensive systems could also mean low quality. It’s best to find the perfect balance and check the reputation of the manufacturer you’ve set your eyes on.
- Longevity – Next, you should always consider durability. The food sector is an immensely dynamic industry and you ought to make sure you have durable products and systems that won’t cause any unexpected disruptions. The installation of the system can impact how long it will survive and continue functioning. This is why it’s vital to rely on a professional for the installation process.
- Performance – Performance is also at the top of the funnel when it comes to the factors that should influence your decision making when buying a gas safety interlock system. Check that it functions efficiently and is compatible with the gas appliances that you have in your commercial kitchen. It’s also a good idea to inspect the efficiency of the sensor.
- Meeting regulations – Another fundamental factor to think about is whether the system meets all gas safety directives in the UK and Europe. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your employees, clients, and partners are always safe and comfortable at work.
Who is qualified to Install Or Repair A Gas Safety Interlock System?
Only professionals who have passed the GSIUR or the Gas Safety Installations and Use Regulations examination are qualified and have the legal right to install or repair a gas safety interlock system. This guarantees that the expert is trained and fully aware of all necessary regulations to follow and will perform a great job, minimizing risks of hazards.
How much does an interlock system cost?
Gas interlock systems to not need to be expensive. Ducting Express offer such a system for £101.40 + VAT
What will I need to connect a gas interlock system?
The gas interlock system will be connected to a gas solenoid valve (sold separately) and must be configured to close off the main gas supply if the fan is not running or there is insufficient extraction air.
Please note that gas interlock systems can only be legally installed by a certified person.
If you require a kitchen gas interlock system, please feel free to give Ducting Express a call. We are experts in the design & installation of extraction & ventilation systems & can advise as to what is the best solution to meet your goal. We provide gas interlock systems & baffle filters for commercial kitchens and can advise of their best & most economical use in your system.
Gas Safety Interlock System Maintenance tips
As a commercial kitchen owner, it’s important to make sure that your gas safety interlock system is working according to expectations and is able to fully clean and support your ventilation system. Thorough and consistent cleaning and servicing of your ductwork, fans and ventilation systems are vital measures that can avoid the undesired scenario of frequent interlock failures resulting from inadequate airflow.
In addition, the interlock system will also require routine servicing conducted by a qualified and certified gas engineer to confirm that it is functioning correctly and according to all standards. The system’s components, including valves, sensors and pipework ought to be thoroughly inspected to ensure it is operating efficiently.
Further Resources:
For more information, here are some resources:
The Health & Safety Executive’s information on Gas Safety in catering & hospitality
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cais23.htm
The BESA’s Specification for kitchen ventilation systems:
https://www.thebesa.com/knowledge/shop/products/dw-172-specification-for-kitchen-ventilation-systems/