There is a change for cleaning kitchen exhaust hood and ducts that CMS recently brought to the attention of the Fire Marshal’s office. These following requirements will NOT be cited by the OSFM until May 1st giving facilities enough time to come into compliance.
In NFPA 96 2011 edition, it says the hood and duct should be inspected for grease buildup in accordance with 11.4. Most nursing homes will need semi-annual inspections for grease deposits: some hospitals may need quarterly or even monthly inspections, depending on the type of cook.
If the vendor finds there are contaminants in accordance with 11.6.2, by using a depth gauge comb, then the hood and duct shall be cleaned in accordance with section 11.6.
In addition, section 11.7 needs to be pointed out. This section requires cooking equipment that collects grease below the surface, behind the equipment, or in cooking equipment flue gas exhaust, such as griddles or charbroilers, to have annual inspection and cleaning.
Read more information about the code sections, and look up on the spot. Please remember that the OSFM will not start enforcing this requirement until May 1st to give providers time to come into compliance.
