What is required when a grease duct serving a Type I hood penetrates a ceiling?

When a grease duct serving a Type I hood penetrates a ceiling, it is essential to have an enclosure for several important reasons. Enclosing the duct helps prevent the spread of grease-laden vapors and smoke, which are typically produced during cooking processes. This is especially important because these vapors can be highly flammable and pose a significant fire risk.

An enclosure also aids in maintaining the necessary temperatures within the duct to minimize the risk of ignition, ensuring that the grease will not accumulate and lead to potential fire hazards. Additionally, it provides a means of protecting the duct from corrosion and physical damage, which could further compromise its integrity and safety.

While access panels, support brackets, and fire dampers are important components in different contexts of ductwork installation, the specific requirement for an enclosure directly addresses the hazards associated with grease ducts penetrating ceilings, aligning with safety and building code standards. Enclosures help to manage and contain the grease-laden air, thereby providing a safer environment in kitchen settings where Type I hoods are utilized.