Regulations and Codes for building a foodservice restaurant / bar business
Some common rule books include the:
(1)BC Building Code
(2)NFPA Commercial Cooking Guidelines
(3)BC Gas Code.
These are used by local authorities and municipalities to define compliance. Experienced builders use these resources to optimize results for a slick operation.
Compliant operations ensure safety…PLUS optimal performance of mechanical systems, commercial cooking appliances, and electrical systems. So, it is a good idea to know a little about codes & guidelines and build it right.
BC Building Code applies to all foodservice (restaurant, bar, winery) locations. This provides the basic guidelines for your general construction. Here is one example:
Do I require a customer access washroom? What are the design requirements for a restaurant public washroom? What about handicap washrooms? The answers are all in the BC Building Code. The rules can vary by building classification, and the Public Health Authority will determine the number of washrooms you need per customer seat. It is important to know how the rules and the authorities work together, so you can plan and build with confidence.
NFPA Commercial Cooking Ventilation Code sets out parameters for exhaust hood systems. Everything from fire rating, to ducting, to make up air heaters is covered here. Every restaurant hood system needs an engineered design to obtain a municipal building permit. These designs are created in compliance with the NFPA standard guidelines. The quality of the design work ultimately determines the overall system functionality. Skilled designers at Black Ink Co make sure their engineered commercial cooking hood systems perform the way they are expected to. The fire suppression system is NFPA compliant and inspected by the local fire department using a trip test. Remember that knowing the rules and enforcement authorities helps you keep on track and ensures compliance.
BC Gas Code also applies to all commercial operations with natural gas, propane gas, or any gas. One good example in this code defines ‘safe roof access’ for servicing rooftoop units. In some cases you may require a full gangway with railings, and a caged ladder with a lockable security door; in others you may require a roof hatch with a ladder, and roof anchors for safety harnesses. Make sure to choose a builder that understands Gas Code requirements for commercial hood systems, so you are not surprised with a compliance order by the BC Safety Authority at inspection time. All gas appliances are registered with BC Safety Authority on Black Ink Co construction projects.
This gives you a snap shot of the regulatory requirements, and processes involved when you build your new restaurant. A little knowledge can go a long way!