Special Hazard (Dry & Wet Chemical)

Tailored chemical suppression systems for high-risk environments where water is either ineffective or destructive.

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Stainless commercial kitchen exhaust hood with wet chemical suppression nozzles

What is a special hazard chemical system?

Special hazard systems utilize chemical agents specifically tuned to a unique fire risk. Unlike water-based sprinklers, these systems deploy dry or wet chemical agents to achieve rapid knockdown and prevent re-ignition in high-energy or chemically sensitive environments.

Wet chemical systems are the industry standard for commercial cooking oils (Class K fires), while dry chemical systems are engineered for industrial processes involving flammable liquids, spray booths, and volatile fuel dispensing areas where water would cause splashing or ineffective cooling.

Types of chemical systems

Wet Chemical (Kitchen Hood)

UL 300 listed systems designed for commercial kitchens, cooling fats and forming a soap-like layer to prevent re-ignition.

Dry Chemical (BC & ABC)

Uses specialized powders to interrupt the chemical chain reaction of fire; ideal for industrial liquid hazards.

Pre-Engineered Systems

Standardized components for common hazards like restaurant hoods or small paint booths.

Engineered Systems

Custom-designed hydraulic networks for complex industrial facilities and large-scale flammable liquid storage.

Why it matters

Chemical suppression is not just about extinguishing the flame; it is about protecting high-value equipment and ensuring business continuity through specialized interlocks and rapid response.

  • Comprehensive appliance and hood coverage for commercial cooking.
  • Critical fuel and gas shutoff interlock coordination.
  • Compliance with UL 300 standards for high-temperature cooking oils.
  • Effective suppression of Class B flammable liquid hazards.
  • Regular semi-annual maintenance and link replacement requirements.

How Lacuna approaches it

01

Review

Detailed review of hazard types, equipment layout, and fuel sources.

02

Design

Precise agent calculation and nozzle placement for total coverage.

03

Coordinate

Coordination of electrical interlocks, gas shutoffs, and alarm integration.

04

Submit

Complete AHJ submittals including floor plans and isometric riser diagrams.

05

Support

Support through final puff testing, inspections, and certification.

Applicable codes & standards

NFPA 17Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems.
NFPA 17AStandard for Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems.
NFPA 96Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations.
UL 300Fire Testing of Fire Extinguishing Systems for Protection of Commercial Cooking Equipment.
IBC / IFCInternational Building Code and International Fire Code requirements for specific hazards.
FM Global Data SheetsProperty-insurer criteria for special-hazard, process, and cooking protection, where FM Global–insured.

All designs are coordinated with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Where it's used

Commercial KitchensRestaurantsIndustrial ProcessSpray/Paint BoothsFuel Dispensing

Protect your special hazards today.

Get code-compliant chemical suppression designs for your highest risks.

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