NFPA 96 Hood Cleaning Checklist for Fort Lauderdale Restaurants

Fort Lauderdale's coastal location and year-round tourism create unique challenges for restaurant hood cleaning compliance. With over 2,000 restaurants in Broward County, fire inspectors are vigilant about NFPA 96 violations that can result in immediate closure orders and fines up to $5,000. This comprehensive checklist covers all NFPA 96 requirements specific to Fort Lauderdale restaurants, including exhaust fan maintenance and professional hood cleaning services available throughout Broward County.

Fort Lauderdale restaurant kitchen hood cleaning compliance checklist

Pre-Cleaning Inspection Checklist

Before any cleaning begins, conduct a thorough inspection to identify potential issues and ensure safety compliance.

Safety First

Turn off all cooking equipment and gas supply
Ensure proper ventilation during cleaning
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
Have fire extinguisher readily available
Check for electrical hazards

1. Hood System Assessment

Check hood dimensions and coverage area
Verify proper installation and mounting
Inspect for structural damage or corrosion
Test hood lighting and electrical connections
Measure grease accumulation levels

2. Filter Inspection

Remove and inspect all filters
Check for excessive grease buildup (>1/16 inch)
Look for damaged or missing filter sections
Verify proper filter fit and sealing
Document filter condition with photos

3. Ductwork Examination

Inspect ductwork for grease accumulation
Check for proper slope and drainage
Look for leaks or damage
Verify adequate access panels
Test damper operation

Fort Lauderdale restaurant kitchen ductwork inspection and cleaning

Cleaning Process Checklist

Follow this step-by-step process to ensure thorough cleaning and NFPA 96 compliance.

4. Filter Cleaning

Remove filters and soak in degreaser
Scrub with appropriate cleaning tools
Rinse thoroughly with hot water
Allow filters to dry completely
Reinstall filters properly

5. Hood Interior Cleaning

Apply degreaser to all interior surfaces
Scrub with appropriate brushes
Remove all grease and food particles
Rinse with hot water
Wipe down with clean cloths

6. Ductwork Cleaning

Access ductwork through proper panels
Remove accumulated grease
Clean all accessible surfaces
Ensure proper drainage
Replace access panels securely

7. Exhaust Fan Maintenance

Clean fan blades and housing
Check motor operation
Lubricate moving parts
Test fan performance
Verify proper airflow

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Post-Cleaning Verification

After cleaning, verify that all requirements have been met and document the process.

8. Final Inspection

Verify all surfaces are clean
Check for remaining grease
Test all equipment operation
Ensure proper reassembly
Document cleaning completion

9. Documentation

Complete cleaning log
Take before/after photos
Record cleaning date and time
Note any issues found
Schedule next cleaning

Fort Lauderdale-Specific Requirements

Broward County has specific requirements that restaurants must follow for hood cleaning compliance.

Broward County Regulations

Monthly cleaning required for high-volume restaurants
Quarterly cleaning for moderate-volume establishments
Annual inspection by certified technician
Proper documentation must be maintained
Violations can result in immediate closure

Common Violations to Avoid

Understanding common violations can help prevent costly fines and closures.

Insufficient cleaning frequency
Incomplete grease removal
Missing or damaged filters
Improper ductwork maintenance
Lack of proper documentation
Inadequate access panels
Poor exhaust fan maintenance
Insufficient lighting in hood area

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should hood cleaning be performed in Fort Lauderdale?

Cleaning frequency depends on cooking volume. High-volume restaurants require monthly cleaning, while moderate-volume establishments need quarterly cleaning. Always follow NFPA 96 guidelines and Broward County requirements.

What are the penalties for NFPA 96 violations?

Violations can result in fines up to $5,000 and immediate closure orders. Repeat violations may lead to permanent closure. Proper documentation and regular cleaning help prevent violations.

Can I clean the hood system myself?

While basic cleaning can be done in-house, professional cleaning is recommended for thorough compliance. Certified technicians have the proper equipment and knowledge to ensure complete grease removal and system maintenance.

What documentation is required?

Maintain cleaning logs, before/after photos, technician certifications, and inspection reports. Documentation should include dates, cleaning methods, and any issues found during the process.

How do I know if my hood system needs cleaning?

Signs include visible grease buildup, reduced airflow, unusual odors, and increased cooking times. Regular inspections help identify when cleaning is needed before problems become serious.

What should I look for in a hood cleaning service?

Choose certified technicians with proper insurance, appropriate equipment, and experience with commercial kitchen systems. Verify they follow NFPA 96 standards and provide proper documentation.

How can I prevent grease buildup?

Regular cleaning, proper filter maintenance, adequate ventilation, and staff training on grease management help prevent excessive buildup. Follow manufacturer recommendations for your specific system.

What happens during a fire inspection?

Inspectors check hood system condition, cleaning documentation, filter condition, ductwork, and exhaust fan operation. They verify compliance with NFPA 96 and local regulations.

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