NFPA 96
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – 96 – Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations
Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations. This standard provides the minimum preventative and operative fire safety requirements related to the design, installation, operation, inspection and maintenance of all public and private cooking operations with the intent to reduce potential fire hazards. NFPA 96 includes requirements for (1) clearances from combustibles for the hood and duct system; (2) requirements for the operation of the extinguishing system; (3) proper configuration of the hood, duct, filter, extinguishing equipment; and procedures for use, inspection, testing and maintenance of the equipment.
UL 300
Underwriters Laboratory – UL 300
UL 300 is a standard established by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for fire suppression systems designed to protect commercial cooking areas, particularly those using commercial-grade cooking appliances that produce high amounts of grease-laden vapors. Here are the key requirements for a fire suppression system to be qualified for UL 300:
- Agent Type
The fire suppression system must utilize a specific type of extinguishing agent that has been tested and approved to meet UL 300 standards. The required extinguishing agent is a wet chemical agent specifically designed to combat grease fires in commercial cooking environments. - Coverage
The fire suppression system must provide sufficient coverage to protect all cooking appliances and cooking surfaces within the protected area effectively. It should be designed to deliver the extinguishing agent directly onto the cooking surface and into the hood and ductwork areas where grease fires are most likely to occur. - Activation
The fire suppression system should be automatically activated when a fire is detected. The detection can be achieved through various means, such as fixed temperature sensors, fusible links, or pneumatic detection systems, which are triggered when exposed to high heat levels. - Shut-Off of Fuel and Power
The UL 300 compliant fire suppression system should include the capability to shut off the fuel and power supply to the cooking appliances automatically when the system is activated. This helps prevent reignition of the fire and reduces the risk of spreading. - UL Listing
The fire suppression system components, including the extinguishing agent, detection system, and releasing devices, must be tested and listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to meet the UL 300 standard. The UL listing indicates that the components have undergone rigorous testing and comply with the safety and performance requirements. - Installation and Maintenance
The fire suppression system must be installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure the system remains in optimal working condition and is ready to respond effectively to a fire event.
