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3 Ways to Keep Your Commercial Kitchen Sanitized and Safe During the Covid-19 Pandemic

February 11, 2021

Here are three ways to keep employees and guests safe if you’re running a commercial kitchen.

Commercial kitchens are often one of the most sanitary places on earth, as employees are well-trained in food safety and health code requirements. Yet the arrival of COVID-19 presented new challenges for commercial kitchens to operate safely. In the B2C sector, restaurants depended on staying open to keep revenues afloat. B2B companies relied on commercial kitchens to feed staff, administration, and residents. In both cases, they needed to do so with enhanced health and safety measures in mind.

1. Invest in an EPA-Approved Disinfectant for Sanitization

Scientists and researchers are still determining how surface and fomite transmission functions in the spread of Covid-19. However, keeping surfaces sparkling clean will provide protection and reassurance to both employees and guests. Double check that your current disinfectant has been shown to kill Coronavirus by reviewing this EPA-approved disinfectant list. If it has, maintain your disinfectant but implement a more frequent surface cleaning regimen. If your current disinfectant isn’t EPA-approved, switch to one that has been proven to work against coronavirus.

2. Update Your HVAC Filters and Increase Air Exchanges

One thing scientists are sure of is that consistent airflow can reduce the amount of viral particles in a space by diluting it with constantly-circulating air. At one extreme, updating your business’s HVAC system is a solid, research-backed way to reduce COVID-19 transmission. On the lower-cost end, increasing the filter strength to 13 MERV is a great first step to take. However, it’s important not to change to a stronger filter grade without having your commercial HVAC assessed to see if it can handle increased resistance. ATECH can provide solid guidance about what updates to filtration and air exchanges would best fit your workplace.

3. Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Your Employees

Keeping your employees safe is paramount. Equip your staff by providing high-grade surgical masks, which can be easily sourced and offer a high level of protection. Consider also providing cloth masks to wear over surgical masks during a shift. New research shows that combining tightly-woven cotton cloth masks with surgical masks can block a large number of infectious particles. Surgical masks can be disposed of after use, while used cloth masks can be placed in a separate laundry basket or bag. The masks can be disinfected using a high-temperature wash cycle, similar to the cycle that most commercial kitchen cloth products undergo daily. Additionally, providing hand sanitizer for staff and customers has been proven effective in combating the spread of the virus.

Need Guidance on Commercial Kitchen Safety?

While sanitation and safety have always been an important part of running a commercial kitchen, COVID-19 has made this an even higher priority. For a closer look at the efficacy of your HVAC system or the disinfecting power of your commercial cleaning products, make an appointment with one of our manufacturer-authorized service repair technicians. We’ll keep your commercial kitchen running smoothly so that you can do what you do best: serving meals.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.