A recent fire at the Yaletown restaurant Elisa involved the rooftop kitchen exhaust system, where grease-laden vapours from cooking operations are discharged.

Photo courtesy of CityNews Vancouver. Click here to view the full report from CityNews Vancouver 

While the exact cause is still under investigation, incidents like this highlight an important reality:

Commercial kitchen exhaust systems are critical life safety systems.

Grease ducts carry flammable vapours. Over time, grease can accumulate inside the ductwork, creating a potential fire path from the kitchen to the roof if conditions allow.

While proper design and installation are critical, safe operation also relies heavily on regular inspection, maintenance, and cleaning by an ASTTBC-certified trade.

Ongoing Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is often one of the most significant factors in preventing grease duct fires. Regular inspection and cleaning are essential to manage grease accumulation over time and reduce fire risk.

NFPA 96 outlines requirements for the inspection and cleaning of commercial kitchen exhaust systems, including the following:

11.4 – Inspection for Grease Buildup
“The entire exhaust system shall be inspected for grease buildup by a properly trained, qualified, and certified person(s) acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction…”

11.6.1 & 11.6.2 – Cleaning of Exhaust Systems
“If, upon inspection, the exhaust system is found to be contaminated with deposits from grease-laden vapors, the contaminated portions of the exhaust system shall be cleaned…”

“Hoods, grease removal devices, fans, ducts, and other appurtenances shall be cleaned to remove combustible contaminants prior to surfaces becoming heavily contaminated with grease or oily sludge.”

Restaurant exhaust systems require consistent attention throughout their lifecycle—from design and installation to ongoing operation and maintenance.

The takeaway isn’t about fault—it’s about awareness.
Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are essential components of commercial kitchen fire safety.

James Hicks P. Eng.
Evolve Mechanical Solutions
236.777.3487
www.evolvesolutions.ca

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