In the bustling heart of every Scottish restaurant, hotel, and catering facility lies a kitchen canopy—silently collecting grease, day after day, service after service. What many business owners don’t realise is that this unassuming fixture above your cooking equipment represents one of the most significant fire hazards in your entire establishment. The TR/19 guidance document isn’t just another bit of red tape; it’s a vital framework that could quite literally save your business from going up in flames.
The Hidden Danger Above Your Heads
Picture this: It’s Friday evening, your kitchen is operating at full capacity. The sizzle of pans, the shouts of chefs, the heat rising—and above it all, your kitchen canopy is working overtime. But when was the last time you looked inside it?
The kitchen canopy and extraction system in commercial kitchens collect grease particles, which gradually build up over time. This buildup isn’t just unsightly—it’s downright dangerous. The data shows that approximately 70% of all commercial kitchen fires originate in extraction systems that haven’t been properly maintained. These fires spread rapidly and can devastate businesses in minutes.
The TR/19 guidance document, developed by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), provides the industry standard for maintaining cleanliness in kitchen extraction systems. It’s not merely a recommendation; it’s essential for legal compliance, insurance validity, and most importantly, the safety of everyone who walks through your doors.
What Actually Happens During a TR/19 Clean?
Many clients ask us what the process actually involves. A proper TR/19 clean isn’t a quick wipe-down—it’s a comprehensive process that includes:
| Component | Cleaning Approach | Frequency |
| Canopy filters | Removed and cleaned/degreased | Every 1-4 weeks |
| Canopy plenum | Manual and chemical cleaning | Every 3-12 months |
| Extract ductwork | Access panels opened, thorough cleaning | Every 3-12 months |
| Fan units | Disassembled and cleaned | Every 3-12 months |
| Roof outlets | Inspected and cleaned | Every 3-12 months |
The frequency depends on your kitchen’s usage, with high-volume establishments needing more frequent attention. A small café might require thorough cleans every 12 months, while a busy restaurant operating 12+ hours daily would need quarterly cleans.
Beyond Compliance: The Real-World Benefits
While meeting TR/19 standards keeps you on the right side of regulations, the benefits extend far beyond ticking boxes:
- Fire prevention – Eliminating the fuel source (grease) that fires need to spread
- Insurance protection – Most policies require compliance with TR/19 standards
- Energy efficiency – Clean systems operate more efficiently, reducing energy costs
- Extended equipment life – Regular cleaning prevents corrosion and mechanical failure
- Improved air quality – Better ventilation creates a healthier environment for your staff
- Odour control – Prevents kitchen smells from permeating dining areas or neighbouring buildings
One of our clients, a popular Glasgow restaurant, noticed their energy bills dropped by nearly 15% after implementing regular TR/19 cleans. The extraction system wasn’t having to work as hard, which not only saved money but extended the life of their equipment.
The Reality of Non-Compliance
The consequences of ignoring TR/19 guidelines can be severe:
- Invalidated insurance – Most insurers won’t pay out for fires caused by poorly maintained extraction systems
- Legal liability – You could be held personally responsible for injuries or deaths
- Business closure – Environmental health officers have the power to close premises that don’t meet safety standards
- Financial losses – Even a temporary closure can be devastating for margins in the hospitality sector
Warning Signs Your Canopy Needs Attention
How do you know when it’s time for a clean? Watch for these tell-tale signs:
- Visible grease dripping from any part of the system
- Reduced extraction efficiency (smoke lingering in the kitchen)
- Unusual noises from the extraction fan
- Unpleasant odours from the ductwork
- Increased energy consumption
Don’t wait for these warning signs to appear. Implementing a regular cleaning schedule based on your kitchen’s usage is the most effective approach.
Take Action Today: Protect Your Business
TR/19 compliance isn’t just about following rules—it’s about protecting your livelihood, your staff, and your customers. At KA Facilities Management, we see the insides of extraction systems daily, and the difference between maintained and neglected systems is stark.
The cost of regular TR/19 cleans is minimal compared to the potential losses from fire damage, business interruption, or worst-case scenarios. Our certified technicians provide thorough cleaning services tailored to your kitchen’s specific needs and usage patterns.
Don’t let your kitchen canopy become your business’s biggest vulnerability. Contact our team today for a no-obligation assessment of your extraction system and a cleaning schedule that ensures continuous compliance with TR/19 standards. Your business is too important to risk—and proper kitchen canopy maintenance is an investment in its future.
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