Running a restaurant or commercial kitchen comes with many responsibilities—none more critical than fire safety and compliance. One of the most overlooked but essential requirements is certified hood cleaning, which not only keeps your kitchen safe but also ensures compliance with NFPA 96 standards.
In this article, we’ll explain what NFPA 96 is, why certified hood cleaning matters, and how it protects your business from costly risks.
What Is NFPA 96?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 96 standard is the fire code for ventilation control and fire protection of commercial cooking operations. In simple terms, it sets the rules for keeping your kitchen hood, ducts, and exhaust systems clean and fire-safe.
NFPA 96 requires:
- Regular hood cleaning by trained professionals.
- Proper documentation of cleaning and inspections.
- Removal of grease buildup to reduce fire hazards.
- Compliance checks to protect customers, staff, and property.
Failure to follow NFPA 96 can lead to fire code violations, higher insurance premiums, or even business closure.
Why Certified Hood Cleaning Matters
1. Fire Prevention and Safety
Grease buildup in exhaust hoods and ducts is one of the leading causes of restaurant fires. Certified cleaners use specialized tools and techniques to remove dangerous grease, significantly reducing the risk of a grease fire spreading through your ventilation system.
2. Legal and Insurance Compliance
Most insurance companies require proof of NFPA 96 compliance. Without certified cleaning, you may face denied claims in the event of a fire. Certified hood cleaning provides the documentation you need to stay covered and avoid liability.
3. Health and Hygiene Standards
Beyond fire safety, grease buildup creates health hazards, including bacteria, smoke contamination, and poor air quality. A certified cleaning ensures your kitchen stays safe, sanitary, and compliant with health inspections.
4. Protecting Your Investment
Restaurants and kitchens are expensive to operate. Certified hood cleaning helps protect your equipment, staff, and reputation by keeping your kitchen running smoothly and avoiding shutdowns or costly repairs.
How Often Do You Need Hood Cleaning?
According to NFPA 96 guidelines, the frequency depends on your cooking volume:
- High-volume kitchens (24/7 or fast food): Monthly cleaning.
- Moderate-volume restaurants: Quarterly cleaning.
- Low-volume kitchens (churches, seasonal facilities): Semi-annual to annual cleaning.
Certified hood cleaners will inspect and recommend the right schedule to keep you compliant.
Certified Hood Cleaning vs. Unqualified Cleaners
Not all cleaning services are equal. Choosing uncertified or unqualified cleaners may result in:
- Incomplete cleaning that leaves dangerous grease behind.
- No compliance documentation for inspectors or insurers.
- Increased risk of fire and liability.
By hiring certified hood cleaners, you ensure your business meets NFPA 96 standards and passes inspections with confidence.
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Final Thoughts
Certified hood cleaning isn’t just a box to check—it’s a critical part of protecting your business, staff, and customers. By following NFPA 96 standards, you reduce fire risks, stay compliant with insurance and health inspections, and safeguard your reputation.
👉 If your kitchen is due for a hood cleaning, don’t wait until an inspector or insurance company forces your hand. Schedule a certified hood cleaning service today and keep your business safe, compliant, and thriving.
Now Serving More Locations
TruShine Services is growing to serve you better! 🚀 We’re excited to bring our certified hood cleaning and NFPA 96 compliance services to new locations across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Conyers, Georgia.
📞 Contact us today to schedule service at any of our locations and protect your business with certified fire safety and compliance.
