NFPA 96 & ANSI/IKECA

Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Safety Training

Protect kitchens. Reduce fire risk. Train your crew with clear steps and proven methods. Expert Safety Services teaches practical skills your team can use right away.

Table of Contents

What “KEC” Means and Why It Matters

Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning (KEC) removes grease from the entire exhaust path. That path includes the hood, filters, plenum, horizontal and vertical ducts, fan, and termination.
A clean system lowers fire risk. A documented process proves safe work and supports code compliance.

Standards That Drive Safe KEC Work

NFPA 96 (Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations)

  • Sets cleaning frequency by risk and volume (monthly, quarterly, semiannual, annual).

  • Defines roles for the owner, the service provider, and the AHJ.

  • Calls for access openings, hinge kits, guards, and safe clearances.

  • Requires post-service readiness of fire protection equipment.

ANSI/IKECA C10-2021 (Methodology for Cleaning Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Systems)

  • Lays out pre-clean inspection steps.

  • Lists acceptable cleaning methods and safe sequencing.

  • Explains “clean to bare metal” criteria and verification.

  • Details documentation: photos, tags, diagrams, and deficiency notes.

Elevate Your Expertise in Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning

Join us at the ESS Training Center for our Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning (KEC) Training Class. This program provides in-depth instruction on safe practices, compliance with NFPA 96 standards, and proven techniques to perform thorough and professional cleanings.

Take the next step toward advancing your career and ensuring the highest level of safety for your cl

What Your Team Learns in This KEC Safety Program

Crews learn the full path: hood, filters, plenum, horizontal and vertical ducts, fan, and termination. They learn how to confirm that each surface is reachable and how to flag missing access points. Technicians learn how to protect nearby equipment, apply the right cleaner, allow dwell time, agitate correctly, and rinse without spreading residue. They leave with steps they can repeat on the next job.

Safety Practices That Protect People and Property

PPE, Height Control, and Ventilation Protection

Instructors cover safe use of gloves, eye protection, and respirators. They teach ladder and lift control and roof safety. They also show how to protect intakes and sensitive equipment during service.

Chemical Handling and Wastewater Management

Teams learn safe storage and mixing, plus spill control and site protection. They also learn how to capture and dispose of wastewater in line with local rules.

Documentation That Passes Inspections

Photo Evidence and Clear System Diagrams

Participants learn how to take before and after photos with matching angles and labels. They create simple diagrams that show access points, changes in direction, and any areas that need work.

Service Reports and Actionable Deficiency Notes

Crews build short, clear reports that list scope, methods, and findings. They write direct notes that explain issues and the next step an owner can approve.

The Future of Safety Training Starts Here

Safety Advocate Program

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Protect Your Team & Property with Expert Safety Services

From electrical safety in exterior lighting to fall protection and lockout/tagout compliance, we help businesses create safer workplaces and reduce liability risks.

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Ready to Build a Safer, Smarter Workplace?

At Expert Safety Services, safety isn’t just a service—it’s our mission. Whether you’re facing a compliance deadline, preparing for an OSHA inspection, or building a brand-new safety culture from the ground up, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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