Department of Human Resources
Helping managers to manage
Department of Education
Installation Of Electric Kilns In Schools
Background
There has been confusion in the past regarding the provision and installation of electric
kilns in schools.
Kilns have been ordered prior to a suitable site being found. The provision of a safe site
and electric installation has then caused considerable expenditure and delay afterwards.
A suitable safe location for a kiln should be found prior to purchase and the following are
some factors that need to be considered when siting a kiln.
Advice and guidance can be sought from the Electrical Surveyors, Asset Management
Support Service. Tel: 01274 431771.
1. Nearby Sources Of Ignition
Electric kilns should not be sited in areas that are likely to be subject to a concentration of
flammable vapour or gas. This is usually the case with areas alongside gas-fired boilers.
2. Proximity Of Combustible Materials
All combustible materials should be removed from areas alongside electric kilns. This
includes display boards, cupboards and stored materials. In cases where the kiln is
accessible to children it is preferable that a wire mesh cage should be provided (essential
for Primary Schools). The cage should extend at least 30cm out from the kiln.
3. Fire Resistance Of The Area Around The Kiln
The walls, floor and ceiling in the immediate vicinity of the kiln should be suitably fire
resistant and this can often be obtained by cladding the area with suitably fire resistant
material.
4. Means Of Escape
The kiln should be sited so that it does not interfere with the means of escape for the area.
Consider fire exit routes and fire doors. A Co2 (Carbon Dioxide) fire extinguisher should be
positioned in a readily accessible place nearby.
Helping Managers to Manage
Kilns in Schools
5. Ventilation
There should be adequate ventilation in the kiln site.
Consider extractor fans, windows and doors.
6. Floor Strength
The floor should be sufficiently strong to withstand the weight of the kiln. If any doubt
exists, then advice should be sought from the Asset Management Support Service.
7. Shelving
Any shelving provided near the kiln should be fire resistant.
8. Safety Factors To Be Considered When Ordering The Kiln
a)
The kiln should be fitted with an automatic cut out switch on the door.
b)
An interlock key switch should be fitted to the main supply.
c)
Where possible a heat fuse should be incorporated.
Occupational Safety Unit
Page 2 of 2
Issued January 2004