In commercial kitchens, particularly those within high-occupancy buildings like hotels, fire safety must be a top priority. Many older properties still rely on unlined or outdated brick risers to extract kitchen fumes – systems that no longer meet current fire safety standards.
These voids, often surrounded by bedrooms or living spaces, pose a serious fire risk. Upgrading to fire-rated ductwork is essential not only for compliance but for the protection of lives and property. This case study explores how Rope Access 24 Seven helped a London hotel resolve this issue with a safe, compliant and future-proof solution.
The Situation
A busy hotel in central London was operating with a kitchen extraction system running through an old brickwork riser that extended through the building’s core. This riser was enclosed by guest bedrooms on multiple floors, creating a significant fire hazard and leaving the system inaccessible for inspection or cleaning. The existing infrastructure was both unsafe and non-compliant with modern fire regulations.
The Challenge
Our objective was to reduce the risk of fire by installing new fire-rated ductwork inside the brick void, without compromising the structure of the hotel or causing disruption to guests. Additionally, we needed to ensure the new duct system could be accessed for future cleaning and routine maintenance.
Our Approach
Working closely with a trusted ductwork installation contractor, our aim was to provide a full safety upgrade to the system. This included the installation of fire-rated ducting, access panels and internal support structures – all achieved through rope access to avoid the need for invasive or disruptive construction.
The Process
Initial Assessment: Our team attended site alongside our ductwork contractor to conduct a detailed assessment of the project. This involved mapping the internal route of the brick riser and identifying anchor points for rope access.
Specialist Installation: We worked in close coordination with the ductwork contractor to install the new fire-rated ductwork riser, carefully positioning it within the existing brick flue. The work was completed with minimal disruption to hotel operations and surrounding rooms.
Peace of Mind: All rope access tasks were carried out by IRATA-trained technicians, ensuring safety and precision at height. Our Ventilation Hygiene Technicians are fully qualified or working towards industry certifications, and our company maintains ongoing training across all teams and disciplines.
Final Outcome: The hotel now benefits from a fully enclosed fire-rated kitchen extraction system. The new riser not only reduces fire risk but also includes integrated access panels, enabling full system cleaning and long-term maintenance in line with current fire safety regulations.
The Outcome
This project delivered a complete transformation of an outdated and hazardous system into a safe, compliant and maintainable ductwork riser. By using rope access building maintenance methods, we avoided disruption to hotel operations, maintained the integrity of the existing structure and dramatically reduced fire risk – all without the need for costly or invasive building works.
Conclusion
This case reflects a widespread problem across the UK: ageing brick risers that have been neglected for years due to limited access and budget constraints. Many of these systems now present serious fire hazards – risks that are often overlooked until it is too late. At Rope Access 24 Seven, we are providing a proactive solution, giving commercial property owners a safe and compliant path forward through specialist rope access building maintenance and fire-rated ductwork installations.
We offer a full range of specialist rope access services – for more information, or to discuss your project, call us on 0203 640 8247 or email info@24sevengroup.co.uk.