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Legal Ventilation Requirements for Gas Equipment in Mobile Catering Units

by Ed Ford
(UK)

I am converting a Double Decker bus into a mobile catering unit. The kitchen is on the top deck of the bus at the front. I have a Gas double tank fryer, a salamander grill and a gas griddle all operating from gas.

I have had various confusing answers in regards to ventilation. Do I need a hood covering ALL the gas equipment or is this ONLY necessary to cover the fryer?

I have a large window which opens fully right next to the fryer, and also have installed an Xpelair GXC9 extraction fan which extracts air at a rate of 153 l/s.

However do I need a hood by legal requirements?

Comments for Legal Ventilation Requirements for Gas Equipment in Mobile Catering Units

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Jan 25, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Mobile Catering Info
by: David-

Your tradesman is correct to a degree, but don’t worry, this isn’t as complicated as it might sound.

Different boroughs (or local authorities) in the UK have varying regulations regarding extraction systems, especially for mobile catering. However, this mostly applies to fixed pitches where you’ll be cooking regularly in one place, rather than festivals or events. Let’s break it down so you can confidently move forward:

1. Why Extraction Systems Are Important
Extractor fans are necessary in mobile catering to:

Remove cooking fumes, grease, and smoke.
Comply with health and safety regulations (e.g., ventilation requirements).
Keep your workspace safe and comfortable to work in.

2. Fixed Pitch vs. Events
Fixed Pitch (e.g., a specific roadside spot or market):
Local councils may require a high-spec extraction system, including features like grease filtration and odour control, especially if you’re close to residential areas or other businesses.

Some councils also require proof that your system complies with DEFRA guidelines for emissions.
Events and Festivals:

At festivals, event organizers generally don’t expect complex extraction systems because the cooking takes place in open areas. A standard extractor fan with a grease filter is typically sufficient unless specified otherwise.

3. Extractor Fan Requirements
To avoid further delays, ask yourself:

What is my main cooking method?

If you’re deep-frying or using griddles frequently, you’ll need a stronger extraction fan to handle the grease and fumes.

If you’re only warming or steaming food, a lower-spec system might be acceptable.
Where do I plan to trade most often?

If you’re targeting festivals and events, stick with a good quality but standard extraction system.
If you might explore a fixed pitch in the future, check the specific borough’s environmental health requirements to avoid having to replace your system later.

4. What To Ask the Tradesman
To make sure you’re getting the right setup, ask:

Is this system compliant with general UK mobile catering regulations?
A reputable installer should already know this.

Does it include a grease filter?
Essential for trapping grease and preventing buildup in the ductwork.

What is the fan’s extraction rate?
For mobile catering, you’ll usually want at least 60-100 litres per second (L/s) per appliance.

Is the overhang sufficient?
As you’ve already mentioned, 30cm is standard for good coverage of cooking areas.

5. Cost and Value
£1800 onwards is reasonable if the system is high-quality and fully installed.
Double-check that this price includes:
The fan itself.

Filters.

Ducting.

Installation.

If the quote doesn’t include these, ask for a breakdown and compare prices to ensure you’re not overpaying.

6. Tips for Moving Forward

Speak to Environmental Health:
Call or email the Environmental Health team at your local council for clarity. They can confirm if your extraction system meets their requirements.

Focus on Events First:
Since you’re planning to do festivals, a standard system will likely suffice for now. You can upgrade if you settle on a fixed pitch later.

Plan for Maintenance:

Extraction systems need regular cleaning to stay effective and comply with hygiene regulations. Ensure the one you install is easy to access and maintain.

Bottom Line

Your tradesman is right to advise caution because regulations can vary, but if you’re focusing on festivals, a standard grease-filter extractor should work just fine. Once installed, get it certified by a qualified engineer to keep everything above board. Don’t stress – you’re almost there!
Mar 27, 2022
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starstarstarstarstar 		Help and advice
by: Kemar

Hi, I purchased my towable trailer a couple months ago as I want to eventually quit my 12hr night shift job and take a chance on myself. Call me crazy but I didn’t research this as much as I should of. I still don’t have a pitch or an actual location in mind as my entire adult life has just been centred around my young family and work ( aka I really should get out more) enough waffle, long story short I’ve invested basically 10k already and can’t afford to fail. I’ve slowly manage to re-build inside to my liking and I’m at the final hurdle which is the extractor fan. Now I’ve managed to find someone to build and install it for £1800 however I was told by him depending on where I want to put the trailer/borough I might need a different type of extraction system to the one I’m looking to have installed. All sounds logical enough but I honestly didn’t think of any of this, I just thought about the overhang of the extractor and making sure there is at least 30cm extra spacing on both ends of the extractor. My question is, is the trades man correct or not necessarily as I really can’t take another delay I just want to get this last job done. P.s I’m planning on doing as many festivals as I can this summer.
Oct 08, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Charcoal grill
by: Anonymous

Hi I need some help, I am looking to convert a shipping container into a food outlet.

My issue is the extraction system as I want to have a charcoal grill 1200mm width by 700mm does the charcoal grill need to be closed extractor as in side covered like what you get on a mangal grill,
As I have been looking at a extractor just above it


Thank you
May 30, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Legal Ventilation Requirements
by: David

Hello Ed,

The purpose of a canopy is to effectively remove the products of combustion, heat, steam and oil vapour from the atmosphere to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for catering workers. The canopy must overhang the appliances in order to achieve this.

The standard for mobile catering states that fryers need to be under a canopy, the wider catering standards for non mobile catering state all appliances must be under a canopy. The final decision should be made based upon the load placed on the canopy (type and quantity of food being produced), not on least cost.

The ventilation requirement for mobile catering vehicles is 25cms2/kw divided equally between high and low level, the specification is that the ventilation is fixed and permanent - an openable window is not suitable and would be classed as 'at risk' by any inspecting engineer, which would severely limit your choices of events.

Mechanical ventilation must be interlocked, meaning if you rely on fans for ventilation, they must have a supervision device that will not allow you to use the gas until the fan has proved as working.

A note of caution, most caterers using classic vehicles trailer them to events due to reliability issues. These vehicles and airstream caravans pose challenges when installing equipment due to low, curved roofs and construction unsuited to having large hole formed for ventilation.

Route master buses I have worked with have kitchens downstairs for stability (important where friers are concerned), access to stock, fridges, washing up areas which can be built off the rear etc and ease of installing. The larger seating area above also presents the opportunity of greater seating capacity.

Please ensure you consult and use a properly qualified engineer to avoid costly mistakes.

It sounds an interesting project, the issues are easily overcome, let me know if I can be of further assistance.

Thanks,
Brian

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