Kitchen Fire Safety: Fireproof Mats for Electrical Appliances

Almost every kitchen has devices that get hot. Coffee machines, kettles, toasters and microwaves often run every day. Usually they stand directly on a worktop made of wood or coated chipboard. This material burns, which makes kitchen fire safety a real topic.

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That is why a fireproof mat for electrical appliances is a simple measure for kitchen fire safety. It helps in the office kitchen just as much as at home. Here you can find out what the rules say, which devices need a mat and what to look for when buying.

Why kitchen fire safety is so important

For years, electricity has been one of the most common causes of fire in Germany. In the kitchen, several risks come together. Devices run for a long time, heating elements build up limescale and cables get kinked. On top of that, there are crumbs in the toaster and grease in the air fryer.

A fire often starts small. A device overheats and the worktop underneath begins to smoulder. However, if the device stands on a non-combustible mat, the fire finds no fuel there.

Is a fireproof mat in the kitchen mandatory?

There is no obligation in private households. In companies, things are different. The employer is responsible for fire safety. The German DGUV Rule 115-401 recommends placing coffee machines and kettles on a non-combustible base. Insurers and the VdS guidelines also advise this.

During a fire safety inspection, a missing mat is quickly noticed. If there is damage, the insurer will ask awkward questions. With a tested mat, you are on the safe side.

Kitchen fire safety: which devices need a mat

A mat is worth it for every device that gets hot or runs for a long time. We have separate guides for the most important devices:

• Coffee machines and bean-to-cup machines
• Kettles
• Toasters
• Microwaves
• Air fryers
• Kitchen machines

Fireproof worktop or mat?

Some people consider making the whole worktop fireproof. Worktops made of stone, ceramic or stainless steel do not burn. However, they are expensive and mean a big renovation.

A fireproof mat protects exactly the spot where the device stands. It is cheap and ready to use at once. Tiles are another option. But they are heavy, scratch the worktop and slip easily. You can find a comparison in the article tile or FireMat.

What to look for when buying

• Testing: an independent test certificate shows that the material really is flame-retardant.
• Size: the mat should be a little larger than the footprint of the device.
• Care: things get dirty quickly in the kitchen. A washable mat stays clean for a long time.
• Grip: the device must not slide on the mat.
• Look: a simple mat fits into any kitchen.

The FireMat meets these points. It is made of Panox and para-aramid fibres and withstands up to 300 °C. In addition, TÜV SÜD has certified it according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2. The FireMat Black Edition is available from 19 × 19 to 70 × 100 cm. It can be washed at 60 °C. The Silk Edition has a non-slip coating and comes in many more sizes. General tips on fire safety are available on Wikipedia.

For companies, authorities and schools

Many authorities, tax offices, schools and nurseries equip their kitchens with FireMat. They often order 30 to 50 mats at once for all devices in the building. You can show the proof (certified by TÜV SÜD according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2) during inspections. Read more on our page for companies, authorities and schools.

Conclusion

Kitchen fire safety does not have to be expensive. A fireproof mat under every hot device lowers the risk considerably. In companies, it is also visible proof that you take fire safety seriously. Our guide fireproof mat for electrical appliances gives an overview of all devices.

The FireMat also helps on the wall behind the hob and sink. Read more in the article kitchen wall splash guard.