Walk-in coolers and freezers are essential pieces of equipment in many commercial kitchens, but it’s also vital to ensure that these areas are kept safe for employees and are used correctly to ensure the food is safe for the customers to consume. Without proper management and regular inspection, your walk-in freezer can become unsafe for employees to use and keep food in.
Tips for Safe and Healthy Walk-in Freezer Operation
An employee becoming trapped in a walk-in freezer poses a serious risk to their health and safety, even with an emergency button, which can become frozen shut. Here are some key rules of health and safety when using a walk-in freezer.
Provide Proper Employee Training
Employees should be trained on how the working procedures and the safety and emergency protocols. Employees also need to be given adequate rest breaks in warm areas.
Provide Personal Protective Equipment
When employees use the freezer, they should be wearing protective equipment that protects them from the cold while still allowing them to complete their job duties. They should also have proper footwear to prevent slipping.
Restrict Access to the Walk-in Freezer
Post clear “no entry” signs and only allow authorized, trained people to access the freezer.
Ensure the Freezer is Laid Out Safely
Make sure there are no tripping hazards and keep items stored at proper heights to prevent collapse or falling goods that could injure someone.
Provide Emergency Measures
The walk-in freezer should be equipped with an emergency exit that has a door fitted with strip heaters. There should also be emergency lighting with a battery backup. It is recommended that you perform a daily check on your emergency exit to ensure that it has not frozen shut. Trapped worker alarms should also be available at any freezer exit, and the supervisor should thoroughly check the area prior to closing.
Keep the Door Closed and Check Temperatures Regularly
Make sure the door to the walk-in freezer is kept closed when not in use, as this will help prevent any warm air from entering and melting the contents of the freezer. Check the temperature regularly to make sure it is suitable for storing food safely, as cold temperatures can slow down spoilage.
Have a Professional Make Repairs
Make sure that any walk-in freezer repair is completed by a qualified technician who knows what they’re doing and understands the importance of safety. At Fugh Refrigeration, our team is highly qualified and puts the safety of your employees first. When you work with our expert team for walk-in freezer repair, you will receive quality, reliable work that will keep your walk-in freezer running safely and smoothly.
Contact us today to learn more!
About The Author
Ben Lutz is the owner of Fugh Refrigeration, has decades of experience in the HVAC/R industry, and has managed many heating, cooling, and refrigeration technicians over the years.
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