As businesses begin to move closer to regular operation, it remains imperative that they continue to adhere to CDC guidelines for reopening. In the back-of-house, this can be challenging as the kitchen is often a cramped area that requires a considerable amount of teamwork to function correctly. Here We will outline our tips to make a kitchen that is both efficient and safe.
Tip # 1
Make it mobile. One of the best ways to create a kitchen that can be adjusted is by putting all necessary work surfaces on wheels. By freeing staff to move their stations as people come in and more staff are reintroduced, the kitchen can be adjusted to meet guidelines presented to create a safe and workable environment.
Kitchens can be chaotic, especially when staff are forced to take up more space than is ordinarily necessary to complete their tasks. Adding mobile options will make it possible for staff to adjust as they create a workflow that works best for them.
For added stabilization while in use, ensure that your table also comes with brakes to anchor it where it will be utilized. Also, keep cleanability in mind when choosing a work surface. It is best to invest in something easy-to-clean that can handle constant sanitation.
Tip # 2
Efficiency is Key. One of the significant issues coming back to work while maintaining social distancing is losing fundamental processes that keep prep fast and efficient. Rather than struggling to force old methods while also supporting social distancing, rely on products that take multiple functions and make them doable in a confined area.
This can be accomplished with tools like the PrepMate multistation. PrepMate can help to speed up prep by keeping all prep needs in one central location. When in doubt, solutions that can condense operations are a great way to improve social distancing.
Another positive component of PrepMate is its mobility and storage. PrepMate is adjustable and can be kept under counters when not in use freeing up the rest of your kitchen. The PrepMate is also mobile and can be pushed around to different areas as the kitchen's makeup is adjusted to social guidelines.
Tip # 3
Prove a Barrier. Another way to ensure your staff's safety is by providing them with proper barriers to section them off from their coworkers. Protective barriers that are either added to worktables or wheeled to necessary areas in the kitchen are a great way to provide a layer of protection when individual workstations end up too close physically.
Barriers should be adjustable to provide ample protection for the individual in that area. When setting up barriers, create a system that can change as your needs change.
Mobile barriers are generally the best overall option. They can be adjusted to different heights. They can be used in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations and are fully mobile for easy transport when needed.
Tip # 4
Make It Visual. Make sure that staff can quickly identify proper social distancing placement with the use of stickers or tape. By mapping out safe work areas, staff can feel at ease, knowing that they maintain a proper distance while also fulfilling their tasks.
This can be as simple as some masking tape on the floor, but it is a great way to ensure that you offer staff safer working conditions by helping them maintain a proper distance.