NFPA 96 - Grease duct access size
NFPA 96 - Grease duct access size
(OP)
Hi All,
I have a vertical grease duct serving commercial kitchen equipment that is 18x30 running up through 5 stories to the roof and wondered if that is too small to permit "personnel entry" for cleaning as per Section 7.4.2.1, Vertical Ducts in NFPA 96-2004, or elsewhere? I.e., will I need to install access hatches on each floor instead?
Thanks in advance.
Dooped
I have a vertical grease duct serving commercial kitchen equipment that is 18x30 running up through 5 stories to the roof and wondered if that is too small to permit "personnel entry" for cleaning as per Section 7.4.2.1, Vertical Ducts in NFPA 96-2004, or elsewhere? I.e., will I need to install access hatches on each floor instead?
Thanks in advance.
Dooped





RE: NFPA 96 - Grease duct access size
So for a vertical opening I would say at a minimum those dimensions should hold, but realistically even that might be too small to accomodate the equipment used to descend/acent the duct.
Since your minimum dimension is only 18" I would say that is too small and you should put an access door on each floor.
RE: NFPA 96 - Grease duct access size
4-3.4.4 Acess panels shall be rated for 1500°F
Panels meeting NFPA 96 & UL are Flamegard.com and ductmate.com Others may meet the standards, these 2 I am familiar with. Don't forget to use listed access panels for the enclosure.
If access for personnel is desired, make sure the hole in the top is large enought for a person wearing a harness, and there is a frame to support that person as there are lowered into the hole.
If there is a large panel at the top of the shaft, that is what the hood cleaners will use. The 2004 calls for access panels every 10 or 12 feet, but probably will be used for inspection only. Access to the access panels will need to be furnished. Hood cleaning is normally done at night, when every other business is closed, so access can be difficult.
There are companies who specialize in cleaing duct systems such as yours. You might check the Yellow pages and contact a cleaning company doing large systems. I could furnish some names for you, but I doubt that is allowed on this board.
Fireguy
RE: NFPA 96 - Grease duct access size
Thanks for all the info.
D