As per Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) regulations, all commercial kitchens with an exhaust system and open flame must be equipped with a wet chemical kitchen hood fire suppression system.
What is a Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System?
A wet chemical fire suppression system is specifically designed to extinguish fires caused by cooking oils and fats, commonly found in commercial kitchens. It uses a potassium-based liquid agent that rapidly cools flames and forms a soapy layer (saponification) to prevent re-ignition.
The system can be activated automatically or manually and discharges through nozzles positioned over cooking appliances. Wet chemical systems are essential for kitchen safety, effectively protecting people, equipment, and property from fire hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. I’m a new F&B owner with a kitchen exhaust system and open cooking. How do I apply for a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)?
To start operations, you must engage a Qualified Professional (QP) or Professional Engineer (PE) to assist with the Fire Safety and Shelter Department (FSSD) submission to obtain your Fire Safety Certificate (FSC).
The process typically involves:
✅ Designing and obtaining approval for three plans:
Additionally, you must engage an MV contractor to install an MV panel.
2. Why do I need an MV panel if I already have an ON/OFF button for my exhaust fan?
During a fire, when the wet chemical fire suppression system activates, two additional systems must shut down simultaneously:
You will need to coordinate with your gas contractor to run the necessary wiring for automatic gas shutoff.
3. What documents are required from my QP/PE?
Fiready requires AutoCAD drawings from your QP/PE. After installation, we will provide a flow calculation report, which your QP will submit as part of the SCDF application.
4. How long does the FSC submission process take?
The SCDF submission process typically takes 3 to 5 weeks, depending on processing time.
✅ You can start renovation once SCDF releases the Notice of Approval (NOA) for your QP-designed plans.
✅ After completing all fire protection works, a Registered Inspector (RI) will inspect the site to ensure compliance with the Code of Practice before issuing the final Fire Safety Certificate (FSC).
5. How often should I maintain my wet chemical fire suppression system?
SCDF regulations require annual maintenance to ensure the system is in working condition.
Regular maintenance checks will help detect:
✔ Grease blockages in nozzles
✔ Damage to discharge piping or fusible link detection lines
✔ Low pressure in the suppression cylinder
A fire protection service engineer will inspect the system and recommend necessary replacements to keep it functional.
Conclusion
A wet chemical kitchen hood fire suppression system is a mandatory safety measure for commercial kitchens in Singapore. Ensuring proper installation, timely submission of plans, and regular maintenance will help keep your kitchen safe and compliant with SCDF regulations.
For professional consultation and installation, feel free to reach out to Fiready (email: [email protected] and whatsapp: 96550256).
Be ready against fire, whenever, wherever!
What is a Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System?
A wet chemical fire suppression system is specifically designed to extinguish fires caused by cooking oils and fats, commonly found in commercial kitchens. It uses a potassium-based liquid agent that rapidly cools flames and forms a soapy layer (saponification) to prevent re-ignition.
The system can be activated automatically or manually and discharges through nozzles positioned over cooking appliances. Wet chemical systems are essential for kitchen safety, effectively protecting people, equipment, and property from fire hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. I’m a new F&B owner with a kitchen exhaust system and open cooking. How do I apply for a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)?
To start operations, you must engage a Qualified Professional (QP) or Professional Engineer (PE) to assist with the Fire Safety and Shelter Department (FSSD) submission to obtain your Fire Safety Certificate (FSC).
The process typically involves:
✅ Designing and obtaining approval for three plans:
- Building Plan
- Fire Plan
- Mechanical Ventilation (MV) Plan
✅ Passing the Registered Inspector (RI) inspection
✅ Receiving the final Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)
Additionally, you must engage an MV contractor to install an MV panel.
2. Why do I need an MV panel if I already have an ON/OFF button for my exhaust fan?
During a fire, when the wet chemical fire suppression system activates, two additional systems must shut down simultaneously:
- The exhaust system – The fan must stop to prevent flames from spreading through the duct network.
- The gas system – The gas supply must be cut off to fully extinguish the fire.
You will need to coordinate with your gas contractor to run the necessary wiring for automatic gas shutoff.
3. What documents are required from my QP/PE?
Fiready requires AutoCAD drawings from your QP/PE. After installation, we will provide a flow calculation report, which your QP will submit as part of the SCDF application.
4. How long does the FSC submission process take?
The SCDF submission process typically takes 3 to 5 weeks, depending on processing time.
✅ You can start renovation once SCDF releases the Notice of Approval (NOA) for your QP-designed plans.
✅ After completing all fire protection works, a Registered Inspector (RI) will inspect the site to ensure compliance with the Code of Practice before issuing the final Fire Safety Certificate (FSC).
5. How often should I maintain my wet chemical fire suppression system?
SCDF regulations require annual maintenance to ensure the system is in working condition.
Regular maintenance checks will help detect:
✔ Grease blockages in nozzles
✔ Damage to discharge piping or fusible link detection lines
✔ Low pressure in the suppression cylinder
A fire protection service engineer will inspect the system and recommend necessary replacements to keep it functional.
Conclusion
A wet chemical kitchen hood fire suppression system is a mandatory safety measure for commercial kitchens in Singapore. Ensuring proper installation, timely submission of plans, and regular maintenance will help keep your kitchen safe and compliant with SCDF regulations.
For professional consultation and installation, feel free to reach out to Fiready (email: [email protected] and whatsapp: 96550256).
Be ready against fire, whenever, wherever!
