Importance Of Restaurant Fire Suppression Systems

By Carolyn Green


Fire is one of the worst hazards in any environment. The kitchen is the center of any restaurant. It is also the most likely area that a fire can occur in a restaurant setup. It is of great importance that owners of such businesses ensure they have restaurant fire suppression systems installed. This is a sure step that reduces the damage that fire brings. The systems should be installed, inspected and maintained on a regular basis or as required.

Restaurants that install such systems usually reduce their risk consideration in insurance as well as reducing the fire risk. Insurance companies that cover such businesses look at this as a mandatory requirement in order to provide them with the cover they need. Some of the local and health departments also list this as a basic requirement before a licence can be issued.

In the absence of a fire control measure, the business can be considered a high-risk client. In this case, instead of paying the standard premium, the premium can be increased by up to 300%. This is dependent on the insurer evaluation of the fire risk.

The presence of a fire suppression system in the kitchen is useful in keeping a fire in control. It can focus on the area with the fire without shutting down the entire kitchen. The staff can, therefore, recover easily and get back to work without disrupting the customers.

It is not only important to have the system in place. It becomes even more useful when the staff are trained on safety and how to behave in the case of a fire. The staff should also know the correct reporting procedure whenever they note an issue that could be a potential fire risk to the kitchen. They should be trained to be attentive in their work and look out for faulty kitchen equipment and worn out power cords. Proper outfits should be recommended to avoid them causing a hazard in the kitchen as they cook and serve.

Prevention is always better than cure. Practice is even more preferred. Training and fire drills should be emphasized among all staff. Each one should be aware of what they should do during a fire disaster. This is as important as carrying out frequent fire inspections. Clearly marked doors and fire exits also reduce the danger by ensuring everyone knows how to evacuate the premise in an emergency.

The presence of a fire suppression system also gives comfort to the staff in the restaurant as their safety is taken care of. It not only protects the staff but also protects the property and the entire investment. In its absence, a fire can get out of control and create a negative impact that affects anyone involved in the business and its environs.

With the system installed, the revenue of the business is protected. A long term closure brought about by a fire outbreak is avoided. Staff get to retain their jobs while customers loyalty is maintained. More importantly in this era of social media where bad news travel fast, the business reputation is protected.




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