Shelving
By Staff -- Foodservice Equipment & Supplies, 9/1/2006 12:00:00 AM
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Types: Shelving units may be of solid-metal or wire construction, with the latter preferred for food storage due to the air circulation it allows. Shelving may be configured as stand-alone, stationary units, fitted with casters for mobility, or hung from wall supports in a track style. Combinations of these types of shelving provide storage flexibility for operators.
Capacities/Footprints: Stationary units typically range in height from 24” to 72” with the most common shelf widths being 14”, 18”, 21”, 24”, 30” and 36” and typical load capacities ranging up to 1,000 lbs. Adjustable shelves give operators configuration options for different-sized products, creating better capacity. Track shelving increases storage capacity and is particularly useful in tight spaces.
Standard Features: Steel shelving units are coated with finishes that vary according to storage uses. For dry, moisture-free storage, a zinc or chrome finish is typically used, with the brighter chrome finish preferred for front-of-the-house applications or displays. Manufacturers now offer a variety of polymer epoxy finishes for shelving, which are the best choice for wet storage, as they provide the most corrosion-resistant surfaces. Most shelves are attached to posts by snap-on plastic clips, which allows end-users to assemble them without using any tools. Manufacturers now offer improved versions of clips that allow for easier adjustments. Operators can add custom accessories, such as can racks, wine racks and work platforms to storage shelves. “S” hooks allow wire baskets and utensils to hang from wire storage units. Certain types of wire shelving allow operators to adjust and position their units more quickly and easily than others. For example, major manufacturers offer removable polymer mats for wire shelving units that contain a built-in antimicrobial coating designed to help inhibit the growth of bacteria, molds, mildew and fungi that can cause odors, stains and product degradation. Also available are easily removable protective shelving mats that staff can clean either by hand or in a dishwashing machine. Post clamps allow for greater stability by joining together two or more shelving units.
New Features/Options: Shelving models nowadays are generally easier to adjust, and require no tools for construction, which makes them easier to assemble. In addition, increasing numbers of finishes are more resistant to corrosive elements and include better antimicrobial protection. Several manufacturers offer better solutions for using wall space. Rust-free and corrosion-resistant wall units come in solid and vented designs, and convert unused wall space into an instant storage area for tongs, spoons, pans and more.
Cantilevered, track-style shelving with easy-to-clean, removable drainage pans is a popular storage design option, as these types of storage models provide maximum wet storage space in small walk-in units. Color-coded shelf markers, which are cleanable and corrosion-proof, are a newer item to help staff better organize food storage and prevent cross-contamination.
Key Kitchen Applications: Shelving is used for storage and display of food products, supplies and cookware in both dry and wet areas of a facility. Wet storage applications, such as in walk-in coolers and freezers, require a polymer epoxy-coated shelving, which should come with a warranty from the manufacturer against rust and corrosion. Designer shelving is frequently used in front-of-the-house display applications and is available in different colors and finishes. Hotels, recreation facilities and hospitals frequently use shelving with enclosures and locks to keep valuables secure. Operators with extensive wine collections can opt to include specialty shelving systems made for the unique needs of these products. Some makers offer the option of removing leveling feet and adding casters to make the units mobile. In addition, operators can choose to place multiple shelving units on a track that allows them to slide back and forth, granting staff access to the items stored while conserving space. To stablize these storage systems, the tracks are bolted to the floor and instead of feet, the shelving units rest on skates that include ballbearings. This allows staff to move the shelving units back and forth. To prevent the shelving units from sliding off, each track comes equipped with end-stops.
Purchasing Guidelines: Operators should balance shelving made with the best corrosion-resistant finish and their budgets to find the best possible solutions to their needs. Polymer epoxy-coated shelving should also come with a warranty from the manufacturer. Some wall-mounted units feature brackets that mount directly to the studs, meaning no wall backings are necessary. Operators should consider application, length of warranty and relative costs when choosing shelving. Most foodservice operations store 10” cans two-high and three-back on a shelf and, therefore, need shelving 24” deep. Since almost all operations have the potential to change their menus and menu programs, end-users should consider ordering shelving systems with adjustable racks.
Beyond simply providing a place for goods to be stored, shelving can address a number of other concerns. Is space a premium in an operation? Is the flow of the back of the house poor? Do improperly stored items make it difficult for kitchen staff to find what they need? Is an ineffective storage system affecting an operator’s ability to serve customers properly? All of these problems can potentially be solved by an appropriate shelving system. Proper shelving systems can help reduce employee falls that result from improperly stored goods. Some makers offer a lifetime warranty that protects operators against corrosion or rust that may appear on metal bars or shelves.
Food Safety & Sanitation Essentials: Proper cleaning of food storage areas and shelving is extremely important in preventing foodborne illness. Epoxy-coated wire shelving is the easiest to clean, though it should have an appropriate NSF rating. Removable shelf mats and adjustable shelves contribute to food safety by helping to protect against spills that can cause cross-contamination. Some removable shelf mats are suitable for cleaning in warewashers. Most makers offer shelf frames and posts with smooth finishes for easy wipedown and cleanup.
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