Stepping into Management Knowledge

Health and Safety

1.20

The flame of the gas hob should burn a bright blue. Yellow flames suggest incomplete combustion of the gas due to either a lack of ventilation or a build up of debris in the cooker rings  If the hob burns yellow and cleaning does not rectify – report fault to your manager  Stop using the equipment immediately .

Risks: When gas is burnt with a yellow flame Carbon Monoxide is given off which is poisonous and can cause asphyxiation in severe cases

Most hobs and ovens have an electronic (Piezo) ignition system fitted for lighting them.  If an electronic lighting system is unavailable, use proper tapers or long gas lighters  Never use paper to light an oven or hob as this can cause burns to hands and body  If the ignition isn’t working and other approved means to light gas are not available, report fault to your manager – do not use the equipment. Remember gas will build up in an enclosed oven if not lit quickly, there is a risk a flash explosion as the gas lights which can cause burns. Do not keep attempting to light an oven, ventilate it for several minutes to allow un-burnt gas to disperse.

Ovens and hobs must be cleaned regularly to remove debris and grease build up. This should be done at least once a week.

Several fires have occurred due to debris and grease build up around oven cavities.

If the stove top of your oven is a sealed unit (does not have removable trays), remove pan stands and burners and undo any screws holding the stainless steel hob base plate in position. Lift up this base plate and clean underneath. Regular removal of grease from this area will help to prevent fires.  Never use tin foil to cover the hob tops. This causes greater grease build up and is a greater risk for fire to start. It can also trap gas underneath in the event of a leak causing an explosion risk.

Grease falls through the gap between the burner and the hob base plate. It must be cleaned to remove the fire risk .

Safety Assurance March 2016

H&S Training 1.20