The History and Legacy of Phil Ackland

Early Career and Beginnings (1960s–1970s)

Phil Ackland entered the commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning industry in 1966, marking the start of a career that would span nearly six decades. In February 1971, he founded Commercial Vent Cleaning Co. Ltd. in Vancouver, British Columbia, which he led until September 1993. Around 1976, Ackland also established Philip Ackland Holdings Ltd. in Summerland, BC, which became a vehicle for publishing manuals, training materials, and later patenting innovations.Source: https://philackland.com/fire-investigation/about-phil-ackland/

NFPA Contributions (1980s–2000s)

In 1988, Ackland was appointed to the NFPA Technical Committee for NFPA 96: Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Equipment. Over the years, he successfully submitted proposals included in the 1991, 1994, 1998, 2001, and 2004 editions of NFPA 96. His work influenced how kitchen exhaust systems were standardized for safety, installation, and maintenance.Source: https://philackland.com/fire-investigation/about-phil-ackland/

Founding of IKECA (1989–1992)

In 1989, Phil Ackland co-founded the International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association (IKECA) and served as its first president until 1992. IKECA quickly became the leading global body for exhaust cleaning professionals, focusing on standards, certification, and industry advocacy.Source: https://ikeca.org

Innovation and Patents (1990s)

1991 – Developed and patented a UL-listed access panel for kitchen exhaust ductwork, enhancing safety and inspection access.1994 – Served on the City of Vancouver Fire Protection Task Force, chairing a subcommittee that designed a certification program for kitchen ventilation technicians.1997 – Patented grease-absorbent products designed to protect roofs from grease discharge.2004 – Served on UL 1978 Committee relating to factory-built grease duct systems.Source: https://philackland.com/fire-investigation/about-phil-ackland/

Training, Manuals, and Publications (1990s–2010s)

Ackland became well known for his manuals and training programs used by inspectors, fire marshals, exhaust cleaners, and insurance companies. His published works include:- Phil Ackland’s Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Manual – Inspector’s Edition- Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning & Certification Manual- A Guide for Commercial Kitchen Fires

- A Video Inspectors Video Training Program (With Daryl Mirza)- Inspector’s Training Programs (used across North America)Sample Resources:https://www.philackland.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/00-introduction.pdfhttps://philackland.com/fire-investigation/about-phil-ackland/https://www.philackland.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/inspection-sheet.pdf

Expansion of Training and Certification (2000s–2010s)

Through the 2000s, Ackland expanded his influence:- Authored “The Future of Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning” (2005).- Published “Change the Oil” (2006).- Collaborated with PowerWash.com / PowerWashU to deliver Phil Ackland Certification Training.- By 2018, even the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs listed Phil Ackland Certification alongside IKECA certification in procurement requirements.Sources:https://philacklandtraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/article06-The-Smell-of-Money.pdfhttps://powerwash.com

Recognition and Legacy (2010s–Present)

By the 2010s and into the 2020s, Ackland was recognized as the “guru of grease” in the industry. He continued training, expert witness work, and publishing guidance aligned with NFPA 96. Today, his manuals remain references in enforcement and training worldwide.Sources:https://philackland.com/fire-investigation/about-phil-ackland/https://ikeca.org

Conclusion

Phil Ackland’s impact on the kitchen exhaust cleaning industry is monumental. As an NFPA committee member, founder of IKECA, innovator with patented products, and author of industry-standard manuals, he shaped the way exhaust cleaning is understood, enforced, and taught globally. His career tells the story of turning a niche service into a professionalized industry with certification, training, and safety standards at its core.