Certificates of compliance will be issued at the time of system maintenance as well as initial installation by installers approved by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI).
Approved installers must demonstrate competency during regular NSI audits in the design, installation, commissioning, recharging and maintenance of systems. They must also be authorised by equipment manufacturers.
Kitchen fires are the third most common cause of large fires, with restaurant and cafe fires accounting for 42% of fires in commercial environments, according to figures from BAFE.
Fire in commercial kitchens pose a significant risk to life and financial losses can be substantial – especially without adequate fire suppression measures in place.
“NSI-approved installers will now be authorised to issue certificates of compliance, much like an MOT, to show installations are fit for purpose on an ongoing basis.” NSI CEO Richard Jenkins
BAFE recently launched the Kitchen Fire Protection Systems Scheme (SP206) to raise standards in the area. Chaired by Dr Jim Glockling of the FPA the scheme is the culmination of two years’ work by the independent register of accredited fire safety service providers.
Richard Jenkins is chief executive of the NSI, the leading third-party certification body in the security and fire safety sector.
“We are delighted to be able to offer professional installers of kitchen fire protection systems independent verification of competency,” he said. “NSI-approved installers will now be authorised to issue clients with certificates of compliance, much like an MOT, to show installations are fit for purpose on an ongoing basis and are evidenced to be maintaining standards through regular independent audit.
“We at NSI are committed to such a forward-thinking initiative which has the undoubted ability to significantly reduce risk and raise standards of fire safety in commercial catering.”
Said BAFE chief executive Stephen Adams: “Third party certification for kitchen fire suppression/extinguishing works is long overdue and we welcome independent assessment of competency for this skilled service by NSI.
“BAFE SP206 has taken almost two years to develop, working diligently to ensure it sets a high level of quality and competency for installers.”
The first NSI approvals under the scheme are expected in the first quarter of 2019.
Do you know the legal requirements for sprinkler systems? Do you know when and where should they be used? Download this technical guide from Barbour, coveirng the types, design, maintenance and – most importantly – the legislation surrounding sprinkler systems.
