A commercial sink is one of the key pieces of equipment in restaurants and food service establishments, and should be carefully designed to ensure water is used for its intended purpose while meeting health code regulations.
Engineers tasked with specifying stainless steel sinks for commercial applications must take several factors into account when choosing their material, gauge, shape and depth requirements as well as sound suppression features and surface finish qualities for these items.
Residential products typically prioritize style over function; commercial ones must withstand more aggressive use. Sinks for commercial environments must withstand vandalism, high traffic levels and environmental elements; common materials used include stainless steel and fiberglass (with stainless steel being thicker and more resilient).
Other considerations when selecting a commercial sink include its depth and whether or not it needs a drainboard. A deeper sink may reduce how often employees bend while washing items, potentially helping prevent lower back problems among workers. A deep sink also allows for additional pots and pan storage but may not fit as easily into small spaces.
Hand sinks are another feature found on commercial sinks, serving to keep hands clean prior and after handling food. Their designs vary, with some models including built-in paper towel and soap dispensers; additionally they may be wall mounted, recessed into countertops or mounted under countertops.
