When you’re running a commercial kitchen, installing the right extraction system is not just about comfort—it’s a legal and safety requirement. Canopies and extraction hoods are essential for removing heat, steam, grease, and smoke from the air, keeping both staff and customers safe.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the legal requirements, what happens if you don’t use one, installation costs, and the regulations that apply to commercial catering canopies.
Do You Legally Need an Extractor Fan?
Yes — in the UK, commercial kitchens are legally required to have suitable and effective ventilation under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
In practice, this means most commercial kitchens need an extractor fan system with canopies or hoods positioned directly above cooking appliances. The system must:
- Remove fumes, vapours, and grease-laden air.
- Supply fresh air to ensure safe oxygen levels and efficient combustion for gas appliances.
- Protect staff from heat stress and poor air quality.
Without such a system, your kitchen is unlikely to pass environmental health inspections and may not be granted a food business license.
What Happens if You Don’t Use an Extractor Fan?
Failing to install proper extraction can cause serious problems:
- Health hazards – Staff are exposed to carbon monoxide, excessive heat, and poor air quality.
- Fire risk – Grease particles in the air can accumulate on surfaces and in ductwork, significantly increasing fire hazards.
- Hygiene issues – Without extraction, grease and odours cling to walls, ceilings, and furnishings, making it nearly impossible to maintain safe hygiene standards.
- Legal consequences – Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) can issue enforcement notices, fines, or even close your premises if ventilation is inadequate.
Put simply, no extractor fan = no safe or compliant kitchen.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Canopies and Extraction Hoods?
Costs vary depending on kitchen size, cooking equipment, and the complexity of ductwork:
- Basic canopy and fan installation: From around £1,000 – £3,000 (for small kitchens).
- Mid-range system (larger canopy with ducting): Around £3,000 – £7,000.
- Full bespoke extraction system with canopy, fans, ductwork, and installation: £7,000 – £15,000+.
Factors that influence cost include:
- Kitchen layout and available space.
- Length and route of ducting.
- Whether fire-rated ductwork is required.
- The need for additional noise reduction or odour control systems.
Remember: ongoing cleaning and maintenance are just as important as installation. Failure to maintain your system can invalidate insurance and lead to fire safety breaches.
What Are the Regulations for Commercial Catering Canopies?
Several UK regulations govern the design, installation, and maintenance of commercial kitchen canopies:
- Building Regulations Part F (Ventilation) – Requires effective extraction systems with tested airflow performance.
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – Employers must provide safe working conditions, which includes adequate air quality.
- Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 – Requires sufficient ventilation for gas appliances to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – Fire-rated ductwork and fire suppression systems may be required, depending on your setup.
- Food Safety Act 1990 – Hygiene and cleanliness must be maintained, which includes controlling grease and odours.
Canopies should also:
- Cover the full width of cooking equipment below.
- Be fitted with removable, cleanable grease filters.
- Connect to ductwork designed for grease-laden air (with access for cleaning).
Canopies and extraction hoods are not optional extras—they are a legal requirement and essential for safe, compliant, and efficient commercial kitchens. From protecting staff and customers to meeting building, fire, and hygiene regulations, the right system is an investment in the long-term success of your business.
If you’re setting up or upgrading your kitchen, explore our solutions for commercial kitchen canopies.
