Don’t Let Popcorn Affect Your Next Life Safety Survey

The only thing better than eating fresh popcorn is enjoying the mesmerizing entertainment it provides during the explosive transformation of the kernels. How that transformation occurs, however, can impact life safety compliance and subsequently your survey results.

There is a myriad of popcorn “popping” machines available for purchase, and it is common to find popcorn machines in locations such as activities areas, dining rooms, and/or lounge spaces.  Many of these popcorn machines are considered “air pop” machines. Air pop machines only utilize hot air to work their magic. However, many other popcorn machines utilize oil. These machines, specifically due to the use of oil, can often be a gray area from a code compliance perspective. Since popcorn machines are not uniquely addressed in the Life Safety Code®, individual Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) have significant leeway in determining their hazard and subsequent protection requirements. While many AHJs require no special protection for a popcorn machine that utilizes oil, some AHJs will require the units to be located within a hazardous area enclosure, or other AHJs will require the units to be operated under a hood extinguishing system.

As you assess the potential impact of a popcorn machine in your organization, here are some questions to consider:  

• Does your popcorn machine utilize oil of any quantity? 
• Is the popcorn used in your machine packaged with oil?  
• Do you utilize your popcorn machine in an area outside of the kitchen?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, you should consider reaching out to your state survey agency for clarification around their interpretations on popcorn machine use and storage. CMS does not have any specific stances or unique requirements around popcorn machine use or placement, leaving the interpretation to your state or local jurisdiction.

If you have questions, please reach out to emergencyprep@ahca.org.   

Source: AHCA/NCAL