Questions to Ask SHELVING 1. What are you storing on your shelving?
• Is the area cleaned frequently? » Mobile units are recommended for use in walk-in coolers that are cleaned weekly or monthly. » Mobile shelf units allow easier cleaning and sanitization of floors, walls and other important surfaces. • Will the customer want to convert from stationary to mobile shelving in the future? » If yes, choose a shelving style that is conversion- capable. See manufacturer’s user guidelines. 4. Is the shelving located in a walk-in cooler or freezer? • For small coolers and freezers: Perimeter shelving is recommended as it is stationary and linked together for open corners and easy access. • For large coolers and freezers: Larger walk-ins offer more flexibility for configuration. A combination of stationary shelving, mobile shelving and track shelving can optimize the available space. See a few examples of walk-in cooler shapes for configuration ideas. • Where are the doors located? These generally determine the size and direction of the aisle. • Are there obstacles? Account for ramps, lighting, condensers and plumbing. These will affect the depth and height of some units. • What is the available floor space? Walk-in cooler sizes are typically measured from outside edge to outside edge, so it is important to know the actual size and insulation thickness of the walk-in (most have 4" thick insulation). Actual sizes may be less than nominal sizes. Confirm if coving is included along the walls as this will also factor into the available floor space. 5. Is it in a general space? • Note the presence of wall coving, utilities, pillars, doorways and windows - these will impact configuration. • Mobile units should be used in front of utility boxes for easy access. 6. What type of shelving configuration is needed? • Stationary: A freestanding unit with four posts or a connected series of units that share posts. • Mobile: » Mobile shelving that is fitted with casters and occasionally moved for cleaning. Typical load- bearing capabilities are 600–900 lbs based on the caster style or shelving limitations. Not all shelving on casters is equal. Some plastic options require special shelves for mobility while others are not capable of being fitted with casters. » If a true transport cart is required to move through a facility, use a mobile shelving system that is designed for adverse conditions. Typically, wire shelving or hybrid polymer/metal systems are ideal. » For heavy duty transport, aluminum-sleeve wire shelving mounted to a dolly base with 6" or large casters is recommended.
• Heavy or bulky items: Shelving should be sturdy to handle static loads and routine loading of heavy items. » Dunnage Racks: Typically manage total stacked weight of 2000 lbs or more. » Short vs. long shelves: Short shelves usually have higher weight capacity than longer shelves » Stationary vs. mobile: Mobile weight capacity is dictated by caster weight bearing o Not all plastic mat shelving is suitable for use with casters - check your manufacturer’s requirements. • Smaller items: May be organized in containers or sorted using dividers and ledges. • Polycarbonate food boxes: Recommended for use with chrome, stainless or plastic mat shelving. 2. What is your environment? • Dry storage: Chrome shelving » Ideal for dedicated spaces not near kitchen splash zones. Stored items are generally non-perishable but may include produce that does not require refrigeration. » NSF listed shelving for dry environments is required. • Wet storage: Plastic or stainless steel shelving » Walk-in cooler: Subject to moisture, spills and leaks. Corrosion-resistant shelving that is NSF- listed for all environments is required. » Freezer: Corrosion-resistant shelving that is NSF- listed for all environments is required. » Dishwashing area: Drying Racks allow safe air drying of pots, pans, trays, cutting boards and utensils. Corrosion-resistant shelving that is NSF- listed for all environments is required. Factor the geography: • Is the facility near a large body of water? » If yes, corrosion-resistant shelving is highly recommended. • Is the kitchen or storage unit exposed to outside elements? » If yes, corrosion-resistant shelving is highly recommended. 3. Does the customer need stationary or mobile shelving? • Is space limited? » Keep aisles large enough for employees to move. Mobile shelving units can be pushed together or apart to save space. • Determine if supplies need to be loaded and stored in separate locations. • How often will this unit be moved for transport purposes? » An idle storage unit versus a re-stocking cart being moved throughout the day will be easier to move with a handle.
EQUIPMENT GUIDE
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