Frequently Asked Questions About Worktables
Worktables are THE item when it comes to prep & storage. And that’s just the basics. Depending on how you option yours out, worktables can be a jack of all trades workhorse without which you simply cannot operate. With such popularity in today’s commercial kitchens, it can be tough to figure out which worktable is right for you & what kind of customization will fit your application. Here’s where we come in to answer your questions.
In this article, we'll go over 5 frequent questions about worktables & give you a general buying guide when seeking worktables for your establishment. Let's go to question #1.
1. How Many Do I Really Need?
It’s the fundamental question & really can only be answered by you. However, we’ll give you some useful tips:
-Come up with a quick assessment of your tools, materials, ingredients, etc. that you’ll be using daily. How many worktables do you need to comfortably accommodate all your items?
-Always have a spare. You’ll never know when you may need additional space to work with.
-Future proof your business! This goes along with the previous point of acquiring more worktables than needed. Having extras on hand will be useful for your expanding business.
-Know your capacity. Of course, you can only utilize the space you are given so choosing the right number of worktables to fit into your location is key.
2. I Know How Many I Need, but What About Sizes?
It will come down to your workload & anticipated volume throughout the day. If you are running an around the clock kitchen (such as on a cruise ship), having a larger worktable will be beneficial to meet the demand. If you are running a smaller ghost kitchen, worktable size can be on the smaller end.
As far as height is concerned, most IMC worktables are 34” high for the best ergonomics possible. This optimal height is essential in reducing neck/back fatigue leading to more productivity in the process.
IMC worktables can range from 24”-48” in width & 30”-144” in length but can be customized to fit your project accordingly.
3. Can Worktables Go Mobile?
Yes, they can. However, you’ll need to equip your worktable with casters to get your worktable moving. IMC offers 5” diameter swivel casters for your worktable to make it mobile. Two of the casters are equipped with brakes to keep your worktable temporarily in place.
4. What Options Do You Recommend?
IMC worktables come with some of the most robust options in our catalog (refer to p. 96 of IMC’s latest price list). The most popular options are below:
- Undershelf – The perfect add-on to increase storage capacity for your smaller items.
- Backsplash – Keeps moisture & debris off your walls. Also, cleanup becomes much more manageable.
- Drawers – For extra storage & security. Can be equipped with a lock & key.
- Integral Sinks – Turn your worktable into a mini washing/cleaning station.
- Table Mounted Shelves – Undershelves are great, but what about overhead storage? Table mounted shelves are great for keeping items within arm’s reach.
- Casters – As mentioned above, they enable you to take your worktable on the go. Useful if you need access to a worktable in various parts of your facility.
Aside from the above, other options include side splashes, flanged feet, scrap chutes, cutting boards, electrical receptacles & the list goes on. Outfit your worktable with options that will complement your business. The choice is yours.
4. What About Maintenance?
We’ve written an in-depth article on worktable maintenance here. However, we’ll go over the fundamentals in this blog:
- Clean the surface, legs & under the worktable using a microfiber towel & non-abrasive cleaner.
- Check the condition of your optional accessories. Is everything firm & not wobbly?
- Wear & tear can be a real issue. Periodically check the condition of your legs, crossbracing, casters etc.
Worktables are in constant use, so maintenance is necessary. It’s not simply an item you set up & forget about.
Worktables are designed to boost your overall efficiency & throughput. IMC/Teddy manufactures wide variety of worktables, all made from Type 304 Series Stainless Steel. They are engineered for heavy use & years of service. To see the lineup of IMC worktables currently available, click here.
