Commercial Kitchen Grease Trap Service Safety Checklist

Is a current vehicle inspection report available and up-to-date, including brakes, lights, and tires?

Does the vehicle's parking brake effectively hold the vehicle on an incline?

Are wheel chocks available and used when parking on sloped surfaces during pumping operations?

Inspect suction hose for cuts, abrasions, or kinks before each use. Replace if damaged.

Are hose restraints (e.g., straps, chains) used to prevent uncontrolled hose movement if a coupling fails?

Is the vacuum pump equipped with a functioning emergency shut-off switch, easily accessible to the operator?

Is adequate lighting (minimum 5 foot-candles) provided around the work area and vehicle, especially during night operations? (Use portable lighting if needed)

Is a spill kit readily available on the vehicle, containing absorbent materials, PPE, and disposal bags?

Is a fully charged and inspected fire extinguisher (minimum 20-ABC rating) present on the vehicle?

Is the vehicle horn operational?

Are walkways and work areas free of slip, trip, and fall hazards (e.g., grease spills, water, debris)?

Are 'Wet Floor' signs prominently displayed in areas where cleaning or pumping operations create a slip hazard?

Is there adequate ventilation in the area around the grease interceptor to prevent the buildup of toxic fumes (H2S, methane)?

If entry into the grease interceptor is required, is a confined space entry permit in place, including atmospheric testing, ventilation, and rescue plan?

Is adequate traffic control in place to protect workers from vehicle traffic (e.g., cones, barriers, flaggers)?

Is the suction hose routed safely to avoid creating trip hazards or obstructing walkways?

Is there a plan and equipment in place to contain any effluent spills during pumping operations?

Are all electrical cords and equipment properly grounded and free from damage?

Is there adequate overhead clearance for the vacuum truck and hose boom?

Has the restaurant manager been notified of the service and any potential disruptions?

Are safety glasses or goggles worn to protect against splashes and debris?

Are chemical-resistant gloves worn to protect against contact with grease and effluent?

Is respiratory protection (e.g., half-face respirator with appropriate cartridges) worn if there is a risk of exposure to toxic fumes (H2S, methane)?

Are slip-resistant and chemical-resistant safety boots worn?

Is high-visibility clothing (e.g., safety vest) worn to increase visibility to vehicle traffic?

Is hearing protection (e.g., earplugs or earmuffs) worn if noise levels exceed 85 dBA?

Inspect all PPE for damage (tears, cracks, etc.) before each use. Replace damaged PPE immediately.

Ensure all PPE fits properly and is worn correctly.

Is a hard hat worn if there is a risk of head injury from falling objects?

Are all hose connections properly tightened and secured to prevent leaks or accidental disconnections?

Monitor the vacuum gauge during pumping to prevent over-pressurization or damage to the system.

Avoid kinking or sharp bends in the suction hose, which can restrict flow and damage the hose.

Implement spill prevention measures during hose connections and disconnections (e.g., drip pans, absorbent pads).

Monitor the tank level on the vacuum truck to prevent overfilling.

Use hose supports or stands to prevent the hose from dragging on the ground and becoming damaged.

Establish clear communication protocols between the technician operating the vacuum truck and the technician handling the hose at the interceptor.

Verify the vacuum truck's pressure relief valve is functioning correctly.

Visually inspect the hose during pumping operations for any signs of leaks or damage.

Are Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) readily available for all chemicals used during the service?

Are training records available to verify that all technicians are trained in safe grease trap service procedures, confined space entry (if applicable), and hazard communication?

Is an emergency contact list readily available, including phone numbers for emergency services, the restaurant manager, and the company's safety officer?

Has a site-specific risk assessment been conducted before starting the service, identifying potential hazards and control measures?

If the grease interceptor is classified as a permit-required confined space, is a valid entry permit completed and posted?

Are equipment maintenance logs maintained for the vacuum truck and pumping equipment?

Is there a documented incident reporting procedure in place?

Obtain customer sign-off on the service report, acknowledging completion of the work and any observed issues.