Air conditioning system ventilation is the process of removing and replacing air in the building. Sometimes supplemental ventilation can be provided by exhaust fans in kitchens.
Tips
- Use extractor fans.
Potential harm
- Breathing issues
Identified hazards and controls
Poor ventilation
Cause
- Poor ventilation leading to food odours, heat and steam build up from cooking.
What workers can do
- Use exhaust fans in areas where cooking produces strong odours or open a window.
What employers can do
- Provide a designated cooking or kitchen area for food preparation.
- Install a ceiling or window mounted extractor fan or a range hood above the stove to disperse smoke.
- Instruct users to switch on the extractor fan or range hood before starting to prepare food, which may burn, smoke or steam.
More information
Guidance
Legislation
- Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 – Refer to part 3.2, division 2 General working environment.
Codes
Page last reviewed: 08 May 2021