TR19® Grease 

Comprehensive Guide to TR19® Grease: Standards for Ventilation and Grease Extraction Cleaning

TR19® Grease is the leading standard in the UK for cleaning and maintaining grease extraction systems. Developed by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), TR19® Grease specifically addresses hygiene and fire safety in commercial kitchens and other facilities with high-risk ventilation systems. Below, we explore this standard in-depth, covering its purpose, guidelines, cleaning frequencies, compliance steps, and the benefits of adhering to TR19® Grease.

1. What is TR19® Grease?

TR19® Grease is a branch of the broader TR19 guidelines, focusing solely on the cleaning of kitchen grease extraction systems. It aims to reduce the risk of fire caused by the buildup of grease and to improve hygiene in high-use kitchen environments. TR19® Grease is widely recognized as the industry standard for kitchen ventilation cleaning, setting clear requirements for cleaning schedules, inspection protocols, and documentation.

2. Why TR19® Grease is Important

Commercial kitchens generate significant amounts of airborne grease and oils, which can settle in ventilation ducts. This accumulation poses serious risks, primarily:

• Fire Hazard: Grease is highly flammable, and its buildup in ductwork can lead to catastrophic fires, which spread quickly and are difficult to contain.

• Air Quality: Uncleaned grease extraction systems may reduce airflow efficiency and create an unhealthy environment for staff and patrons.

By following TR19® Grease, establishments can ensure a safer, cleaner, and more compliant workspace, reducing the likelihood of fire and health issues.

3. Key Components of TR19® Grease

The TR19® Grease guidelines cover several key areas, including:

a. Grease Extraction Cleaning Standards

TR19® Grease specifies that all parts of the grease extraction system, from the canopy to the ducts, fans, and discharge points, should be cleaned regularly to remove grease buildup. It sets cleanliness standards that help evaluate when cleaning is necessary:

• Visual Inspections: Routine inspections are crucial for identifying grease levels and planning necessary cleanings.

• Deposit Thickness Testing (DTT): This method involves measuring grease buildup using specialized tools to ensure it remains below a maximum allowable level.

b. Cleaning Frequencies

The frequency of cleaning under TR19® Grease is determined by kitchen usage, broken down as follows:

• Heavy Use (12–16 hours per day): Cleaning is recommended every 3 months.

• Moderate Use (6–12 hours per day): Cleaning every 6 months is advised.

• Light Use (2–6 hours per day): Annual cleaning is typically sufficient.

These schedules are recommendations, and actual cleaning needs may vary based on specific operational factors and periodic inspections.

c. Documentation and Reporting

TR19® Grease places a strong emphasis on documentation, as this serves as proof of compliance. Essential documentation includes:

• Certificates of Compliance: Provided after each cleaning, detailing the areas cleaned, methods used, and inspection results.

• Post-Cleaning Reports: Comprehensive reports with before-and-after photos, DTT measurements, and a summary of the cleaning process.

• Record Retention: All documentation should be retained for at least two years for audit or insurance purposes.

4. Steps to Achieve TR19® Grease Compliance

Meeting TR19® Grease standards involves following a structured process to ensure that all ventilation components are regularly inspected, cleaned, and documented. Here are the primary steps:

Step 1: Conduct an Initial System Assessment

A TR19® Grease-certified professional should assess the entire grease extraction system, identifying high-risk areas where grease is likely to accumulate.

Step 2: Establish a Cleaning Schedule

Based on the assessment, create a cleaning plan that aligns with the recommended frequencies under TR19® Grease, tailored to your kitchen’s usage levels.

Step 3: Perform Routine Cleaning and Inspection

Engage certified technicians to perform cleanings using approved methods, such as steam cleaning, scrubbing, and degreasing, and conduct DTT measurements as needed.

Step 4: Maintain Documentation and Reports

After each cleaning, ensure you receive and retain a detailed cleaning report and certificate of compliance. Keep these records on file to demonstrate compliance during audits or inspections.

Step 5: Perform Regular System Inspections

Periodic inspections between cleanings can help identify grease buildup early, enabling timely interventions. These inspections also help adjust cleaning frequencies if grease levels are found to increase unexpectedly.

5. Benefits of Adhering to TR19® Grease

Following TR19® Grease provides a wide array of benefits for commercial kitchens and any facility using grease-laden extraction systems. Key advantages include:

• Enhanced Fire Safety: Reduces the risk of kitchen fires by keeping grease levels below dangerous thresholds.

• Better Indoor Air Quality: Maintains efficient airflow, removing particulates and contaminants from the air.

• Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrates adherence to health and safety regulations, helping avoid potential fines and legal issues.

• Insurance Coverage: Compliance with TR19® Grease is often a requirement by insurance providers, and following these guidelines can lower premiums and simplify claim processes in case of a fire.

• Operational Efficiency: Clean ventilation systems improve kitchen efficiency, reduce energy costs, and create a safer working environment.

6. Choosing a TR19® Grease-Certified Cleaning Provider

It is crucial to choose a provider certified by BESA or other relevant authorities to ensure compliance with TR19® Grease. Certified providers have specialized training, equipment, and expertise to handle complex grease extraction systems effectively.

When selecting a provider, consider the following:

• Certification: Verify that the provider holds TR19® Grease certification.

• Experience: Look for a provider with experience in handling ventilation systems similar to yours.

• Documentation: Ensure they provide post-cleaning reports and certificates of compliance.

• Regular Communication: Choose a provider that will work with you to monitor grease buildup and recommend cleaning adjustments as needed.