By John Conway, General Manager at Kitchen Guard  

As a facility owner or operator, your primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who enters your building. This includes employees, clients, guests and more.   

Regular maintenance is a critical component to ensuring a safe facility, and it can be managed cost-effectively without compromising operational integrity. Drawing from my experience as the General Manager of Kitchen Guard, a company specializing in complete commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning, I have seen firsthand the importance of proactive maintenance in commercial facilities. 

Top 7 Tips to Protecting Your Facility 

1.     Regular inspections are essential for identifying potential issues before they become significant problems. This is particularly crucial in electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC. By scheduling routine inspections during off-peak hours, you can minimize operational disruptions. Using a checklist ensures that all areas are thoroughly examined.  

2.     Fire suppression and safety systems, including sprinklers, fire alarms, and extinguishers, are a necessary defense during fire events but your first defense against fire-related disasters is fire prevention through the maintenance and service of these systems including commercial kitchen hoods and fans. Regular testing and maintenance of these systems are crucial and may be required by law. Implement a protocol that includes inspections and preventative maintenance to ensure all systems are in working order and certified.  

3.     A well-maintained HVAC system ensures a comfortable environment and prevents mold growth and energy inefficiency. Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule that includes filter changes, coil cleaning, and system checks can reduce energy costs and extend the life of your equipment.  

4.     A damaged roof or exterior can lead to water leaks, structural damage, and increased energy costs. Conducting seasonal roof inspections to identify and address issues like loose shingles, clogged gutters, and cracked masonry is essential. Consider using drones for hard-to-reach areas to save on labor costs.  

5.     Faulty electrical systems can lead to fires, power outages, and equipment failures. Having a licensed electrician perform annual inspections and promptly address any issues. Upgrading to energy-efficient lighting and smart systems can reduce long-term costs.  

6.     Leaks and clogs in plumbing systems can cause significant damage and disrupt operations. Regularly checking for leaks and clogs and addressing them immediately can prevent costly repairs. Installing water-saving fixtures can reduce water usage and lower utility bills.  

7.     Cracks, uneven surfaces, and structural issues can pose safety hazards and lead to costly repairs. Conducting regular walk-throughs to identify and address issues can help. Preventive measures like sealants and coatings can protect surfaces from wear and tear.  

The Benefit of My Experience 

At Kitchen Guard, we have provided fire safety services to numerous commercial kitchen facilities. One of the most common issues we encounter is the buildup of grease and soot in kitchen exhaust systems, which can ignite and cause a fire. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent these incidents. 

For example, a local restaurant we worked with had a near-miss fire due to a clogged exhaust hood. After a thorough inspection and cleaning, we identified several areas of concern, including a grease buildup in the ductwork and a malfunctioning fire suppression system. By addressing these issues, we not only prevented a potential fire but also improved the overall safety and efficiency of the kitchen. 

Cost-effective solutions include scheduling cleanings of all maintenance systems as recommended by your equipment provider or service provider and following through on your preventive maintenance programs. Providing regular training for maintenance staff on proper cleaning techniques is also crucial. Quarterly inspections of critical systems, such as fire suppression systems, ensure they are compliant and in good working order to prevent down-time. 

By paying close attention and conducting due diligence, you can protect the lives of your employees and customers, safeguard your property, and ensure the smooth operation of your business. 

John Conway is the General Manager of Kitchen Guard, a franchise company with more than 50 territories across the United States.  John has a career creating operational excellence as a certified lean six sigma black belt in both manufacturing and large scale field service operations. 


posted on 3/24/2025