Don't Let Kitchen Equipment Impact Your Health Inspection

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April 17, 2023

Health inspections can be stressful. If you’ve worked in the restaurant industry for some time, you might know the anxiety that can occur when the health inspector walks in the door. The good news is that you don’t have to panic when it’s time for your next inspection. Being proactive about your food safety and equipment maintenance routines can help you feel confident about your next restaurant health inspection.

Maintaining a clean and well-functioning kitchen is essential to avoid getting docked during a health inspection. In addition to food safety, equipment functionality plays a major role in your overall score. As a partner for hundreds of restaurants and commercial kitchens across Tennessee, here are a few tips we share with our clients when it comes to preparing and maintaining kitchen equipment for an inspection:

1. Create and follow a detailed cleaning and sanitization schedule for your equipment.

Develop a cleaning schedule and stick to it for all your equipment, including ovens, stovetops, grills, and fryers. Your schedule should specify how equipment should be cleaned daily, weekly, and monthly and by whom. In addition to cleaning, make sure all equipment is sanitized regularly using a solution or heat.

2. Clean equipment after each use, and properly store your cleaning supplies.

Make sure all equipment is cleaned thoroughly after each use to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances. It’s also important to follow safety protocols for your equipment cleaning supplies. This includes using cleaning supplies and chemicals that are specifically designed for use in commercial kitchens. Any cleaning supplies should be stored properly in a separate area, away from produce, ingredients, and food prep areas.

3. Train your staff on how to use and clean kitchen equipment.

Your kitchen staff should know how to use and clean your kitchen equipment. If your entire staff understands how to maintain food safety practices, they are more likely to keep things ship-shape without being surprised by an inspection. They will also be more prepared for an inspector’s questions about your equipment or protocols.

4. Regularly service and maintain your equipment for accurate temperature control.

Your commercial kitchen equipment should be at peak performance during an inspection. If your food is stored, prepared, or cleaned at unsafe temperatures, a health inspector will write you up. Making sure your equipment and thermometers work properly to ensure that food stays in the correct temperature zone is the only way to prevent this. Investing in planned maintenance is an easy way to address the risk of your equipment not performing to spec during an inspection.

5. Keep a record of equipment maintenance.

In the same way you keep a record of daily stock or sales, you should be keeping track of your equipment maintenance history. It’s important to keep an updated record of all your equipment maintenance, including cleaning and repairs, to demonstrate your equipment is well-maintained and in good working order. ATECH provides a maintenance checklist so that you can show the inspector a record of repairs and maintenance.

Avoid Surprises or Mishaps with ATECH

By following these tips, your restaurant can maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen with properly functioning equipment to pass health inspections with flying colors.

If you have any questions or need support preparing for an inspection, our team is here to help. With a quick visit from one of our technicians, your team can keep your kitchen safe, healthy, and ready to receive an “A” grade on your next inspection.

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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.