How a Gas Interlock System Works
A gas interlock system sits between your kitchen's extraction system and its gas supply. In simple terms, it works like this: - The system monitors whether the kitchen's extraction fan is running and performing adequately, often using airflow or fan-status sensors - If the extraction system is confirmed to be working, the interlock allows the gas supply to flow to cooking appliances as normal - If the extraction system isn't running, or airflow drops below a safe threshold, the interlock automatically shuts off or restricts the gas supply - Once ventilation is restored, gas flow is reinstated, allowing kitchen operations to resume This means gas appliances simply cannot be used without adequate ventilation in place, removing the risk of staff forgetting to switch on extraction before cooking begins.
Why Gas Interlock Systems Matter
Commercial kitchens produce significant quantities of heat, steam and combustion by-products from gas cooking equipment. Without effective ventilation running at the same time, these by-products can build up rapidly, creating a risk to staff health and safety. Gas interlock systems are widely specified under British Standards covering the installation and maintenance of gas-fired commercial catering appliances, which require ventilation to be confirmed as working before gas equipment is used. Requirements can vary depending on your premises, insurer and local authority, so it's worth checking your specific obligations with your fire risk assessor or building control. Beyond compliance, a gas interlock system offers genuine operational reassurance — it removes reliance on staff remembering to turn on extraction, and it can flag a ventilation fault before it becomes a bigger problem.
When You Might Need a Gas Interlock System
A gas interlock system is commonly required or recommended in situations such as:
Fitting out a new commercial kitchen with gas cooking equipment
Upgrading or replacing an existing extraction system
An insurance, landlord or fire risk assessment requirement
A previous enforcement notice or compliance issue relating to kitchen ventilation
General good practice for any kitchen using gas appliances without one currently fitted
If you're not sure whether your kitchen needs a gas interlock system, our team can assess your setup and advise.