As laundry room workhorses, your commercial tumble dryers need regular servicing to keep them running around the clock.
But their ductwork needs care too, because even a small build-up of lint and debris can restrict airflow, raise operating temperatures, and create the perfect conditions for a fire.
These risks have made duct cleaning a legal requirement for all UK organisations, with a range of regulations you’ll need to meet. This guide outlines why it’s important to clean your dryer ducting, your responsibilities, and the extra benefits of a clean system.
Why duct cleaning matters
Lint is a highly combustible material which can create a serious fire risk if it’s left to accumulate. But dust, bacteria and mould can also build up in ducts, and can potentially affect the air your staff and customers breathe.
What’s more, dirty ducts are likely to make your dryers work even harder, which won’t just shorten their life, but increase your energy bills.
What are the regulations you should know about?
In the UK, several different regulations cover duct cleaning for safety reasons.
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
This legislation expects you to maintain all fire safety systems on your premises – including your ductwork – to reduce fire hazards and protect everyone. Neglecting your dryer ducts could be considered non-compliance, which can expose you to fines or prosecution.
Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
All employers have a duty of care to keep their staff and visitors safe. This includes maintaining critical workplace systems, like ventilation and heating, to minimise hazards. Neglected dryer ducts can accumulate lint and dust, posing fire and air quality risks, which would breach this duty.
Occupiers’ Liability Act 1984
This act extends your duty of care to everyone on your premises, and not just your employees. This covers the maintenance of your air quality through systems including ductwork. And this means that if blocked or contaminated ductwork causes injury or illness, you could be held liable.
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
These regulations stress that workplaces must be properly ventilated with fresh or purified air. Dryer ducts fall under this requirement, which means they must be kept clear and maintained.
COSHH Regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
Under COSHH rules, UK employers need to control exposure to hazardous substances including dust, mould, bacteria and other airborne contaminants. Regular duct cleaning is a vital step in making sure this happens.
More reasons to clean and maintain your ducting
While safety and compliance are the most important reasons to book a commercial dryer duct clean, the advantages don’t stop there.
Free-flowing air means faster drying times and lower energy use, adding up to useful savings. Regular cleaning helps extend the lifespan of your equipment, reducing wear and tear on motors and heating elements while preventing the need for costly repairs and disruptive downtime.
Can JLA take care of it for you?
With 450 engineers based all over the UK and Ireland, plus compliance advice on hand through our helpline, JLA offers all the support you need to keep your dryer ducts clean – and your business compliant. So, why not speak to one of our compliance experts today?
For more expert insights, visit the JLA Knowledge Hub.
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