CERTIFICATION PROTOCOL
Introduction
Experienced cleaners (and company representatives) have a variety of "on-the-job" skills. The Training Portion of this Protocol ensures that all those who are Phil Ackland Certified have received the same consistent level of training. This training consists of basic NFPA 96 (and local Fire Codes) as well as other practical knowledge. Completion of this Training provides registered companies and certified cleaners with the knowledge and understanding of their responsibilities when cleaning kitchen exhaust systems. This provides the AHJ with a recognizable "benchmark."
Goals of Training
This training provides:
- Understanding Fire Codes and Standards related to the exhaust cleaning field
- Recognizing their responsibility when cleaning (What is "properly cleaned?")
- Recognition of basic deficiencies related to accessibility and cleaning
- A protocol of documentation to inform kitchen owners (and others) of the cleanliness and accessibility of the exhaust system
- How to install Listed access panels and grease containment systems
- Becoming familiar with power washers and other tools of the trade
- Recognizing Safety issues inherent to this service
Education Sources
The following publications provide the primary training material for the Training Course:
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 96 Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations 1998/2001 Editions.
- Phil Ackland's Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning and Certification Manual.
- OSHA regulations that relate to the kitchen exhaust industry (found in the Cleaning and Certification Manual).
- International Mechanical Code (IMC).
Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Registration / Certification
The Protocol is two-tiered.
- Company Registration
- Crew Leader Certification
Company Registration (Qualifications)
Company Registration requires proof of necessary documentation; and knowledge of local fire codes and acceptable industry standards. A Company designates a Representative who must go through Phil Ackland Exhaust Cleaner Training, complete the workbook, submit appropriate paperwork and pass the exam. Upon successful completion, the company becomes Registered. They then can recommend their Crew Leaders for certification.
Note: Crew Leaders can take the training simultaneously with the Company Representative; but will not become Certified until the Company has been Registered.
Company Documentation
Companies must submit the following documents prior to qualifying for Registration:
- The "Cover Sheet" of their General Liability Insurance policy
- Federal ID Number (USA)
Crew Leader Certification
A Crew Leader is defined as the individual who represents the company's interests at the actual jobsite at the time of cleaning; this may be a Sub-Contractor or employee. The Registered Company must sign the Crew Leader Certification Application Form stating that their Crew-Leader has experience in cleaning at least ten (10) jobs (Proof of Experience). The Crew Leader has to complete Phil Ackland Exhaust Cleaner Training and pass the exam. Crew-Leader certification remains in effect only as long as the individual works for the company to which they were certified.
Interim Certification
A Crew Leader, who cannot fulfil the Proof of Experience requirement, may still apply for Certification and be granted Interim Certification. Once interim certified, the Crew Leader has one (1) year to submit Proof of Experience (10 jobs). When this is received, full certification will be granted for three years from the time the exam was passed.
Interim Certification is not renewable. After one (1) year, the Crew Leader will have to re-apply for certification.
Duration of Registration/Certification
Registered companies and Certified persons will be provided with a dated Certificate. Registration/Certification is for three years. At the end of which the registered companies and certified Crew Leaders will be required to review changes to Fire Code and/or industry standards.
Testing
The Exam requires at least 80% correct answers in order to pass (subject to modification). The exam is based on the information found in the listed Educational Sources. The Exam consists of: a) completion of the exercises in the workbook, and b) an open book exam to confirm that a cleaner knows where to go to find information on safety, cleaning, NFPA 96 relevant standards; and other key areas of practical knowledge.
Disclaimer
The expression "certified" can have a number of definitions or values. Phil Ackland's Exhaust Cleaners Certification Protocol™ is not suggesting that because someone is "certified" that they are acting in the interests of or representing Phil Ackland Holdings Ltd. or the Authority Having Jurisdiction. However, we are indicating that an individual, who has gained a Certificate through this Protocol, has attained a certain knowledge/skill level in the field of kitchen exhaust cleaning, which should hold them responsible as a competent exhaust cleaner.
Download
Download or print this page Certification Protocol (PDF).
