A KFSS is a fixed fire protection system which is fitted within the grease extraction system and over open cooking appliances which produce grease laden vapours in commercial kitchens.

The purpose of a KFSS is to both detect and suppress a fire, should it break out, on a commercial cookline installed beneath a suitable grease extraction canopy.

No, it is not a legal requirement in the UK to have KFSS fitted in commercial kitchens. However certain circumstances may dictate the need to have KFSS fitted. For example, if the commercial kitchen is attached to a sleeping risk, or where evacuation of those with mobility issues can increase the time required for safe escape. Additionally, where kitchens are open to restaurants or other areas within a complex or shopping centre, the landlord may well insist a KFSS is installed. It’s also likely if your property is a listed building that KFSS will be required to satisfy insurance requirements.

When researching, you should consider several factors the most important being “is the system approved?” So, when looking at different systems ensure at the very least the system is compliant to LPS 1223 (LPCB Loss Prevention Certification Board) you can check the system or manufacturer at Red Book Live. In the United States where KFSS is mandatory, the approval required is UL300 (Underwriters Laboratories) UL 300 is considered a more robust approval than LPS 1223 as the fire testing is more rigorous and harder to achieve for manufacturers and therefore the systems which are compliant to UL300 are considered a better choice as they give greater protection. In recent years a new approval has been launched to attempt to increase the standard of KFSS systems, this was initially EN 16282, but more recently a new standard has been released which mirrors the UL 300 standard, this new standard is EN
17446 and ensures you receive a system which is fit for purpose and can be connected to shut downs and
fire alarms as required.

KitchenShield holds full international approvals, it is UL 300 / LPS 1223 / EN 16282 & EN 17446.

No, any fire company fitting these systems must be authorised by the manufacturer to ensure they are trained correctly and are able to stock and supply parts for on-going maintenance, recharge and repair. When choosing an installer, be sure to request a copy of their certificate of authorisation, if you are unsure consult your insurance broker, or contact the manufacturer direct. If you use non-authorised installers, you run the risk of sub-standard workmanship with non-authentic parts and of voiding your insurance should you suffer loss through a fire incident. Sensetech are the UK officially authorised installers and maintainers.

Unless your Kitchen operates 24/7 then the answer is no! Sensetech will work around your kitchen service to ensure your trade is not impacted. Sometimes where larger or multiple systems are required, additional shifts may be required.

If the site is a new build, then generally we would be the last trade in before the deep clean is completed as we will need everything fitted and all kitchen appliances in their final operating positions. If its an existing kitchen then often these can be turned around very quickly, but often a date will be agreed by which time the system can be completed.

Yes, in order to ensure the system is serviceable it must be maintained bi-annually. Certain components must be replaced regularly as they become clogged or coated in grease and residues from the cooking process. Maintenance also ensures the 5 year warranty remains valid.

If the system is maintained and certain items which are subject to harsh conditions are monitored or repaired/replaced as required, then the system will last indefinitely. However, at every ten-year point, any part of the system which is subject to pressure ,such as the tank, must be replaced along with the wet chemical. Normally this is done as a straight swap with new which is the most economically viable option.

Email: kitchenshield@sensetechsystems.co.uk to make an enquiry or gain more information.