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34 QI 2015 THE QUARTERLY The basic design of commercial shelving used in the foodservice industry has essentially remained unchanged since the mid 1960s. This consists of round posts and a wire-based system. In 1989, the introduction of polymer shelving pro- vided operators with an alternative. The popularity of this shelving has grown because of its durability, cleanability and the fact that it doesn't rust like metal. Post and shelf kits provide added fexibility for those seeking custom components to help maximize the avail- able storage area. Due to a growing array of options in this category, there is no longer a one-size-fts-all approach when it comes to specifying shelving. Rather than flling up a storage area with shelves, operators now fnd that care- ful planning prior to specifying is necessary to make the most of designated storage space. Storage Solutions Shelving is categorized as medium-duty equipment that is used to store food items, supplies and miscellaneous items until needed for time of service. These units are also referred to as storage racks, racking systems or storage units. Both metal and polymer shelves, along with remov- able shelving mats, offer optimum food safety by facilitat- ing easier cleaning. Although more expensive, polymer units won't rust like metal systems. Epoxy-coated wire shelving is a more affordable alternative. Most shelving systems are designed for use in any kitchen environment, including dry storage areas, dish rooms, walk-in coolers or freezers and in mobile carts. Appropriate shelving can improve productivity by keeping kitchen staff from having to meander through several storage areas looking for items. Foodservice operators should consider a number of factors when purchasing a shelving unit. Start by determining how the operation will use the shelving system and the load capacity that it will need to accommodate. Shelving loads typically average between 300 and 500 pounds. For heavily loaded units, carefully evaluate the system's structural integrity. Because operators have to ft as much product as possible onto shelves in order to keep food items off of the foor, shelf overloading becomes a common occurrence. Adding too much weight not only increases the potential of the unit collapsing, but also makes it diffcult to comply Shelving FE&S;: How should shelving units be cared for? JT: Wiping each shelf down as necessary is basically all that's needed. Broken corner clipper mounts need to be replaced as soon as possible or the shelving unit's stabil- ity may be compromised. Casters should be greased as needed, especially if the system is used in a harsh envi- ronment, like within a walk-in. FE&S;: Are there food safety considerations operators should be aware of with shelving units? JT: If a shelf is wrecked or rusted, it can fall apart or col- lapse. Also, for the many shelving units that have grates, it's a health violation to put clean pots or pans or any- thing exposed to food on the bottom shelf, since this is too close to the foor. As an alternative, custom liners can be placed on the bottom shelf to protect items from the foor's dirt and debris. These liners can crack and break so will eventually need replacement, typically annually. FE&S;: Are there routine maintenance require- ments for shelving units? JT: We don't have any shelving on a maintenance program, other than patient food trucks. This means it's up to the operator to keep the units clean and intact. FE&S;: What are the signs a shelving unit needs replacing? JT: Total replacement is not typical, unless it's for cos- metic reasons, like excessive rusting. The more custom- ized the shelving, the more likely it will be repaired rather than replaced due to the higher price point. FE&S;: What are common problems that occur with commercial shelving units? JT: Although shelves don't stop working, use could be compromised. Much of the time, this has to do with the broken wheels on units that aren't stationary. STORAGE AND HANDLING Q&A; WITH JOSH TAYLOR, service director, American Kitchen Machinery and Repair, Philadelphia, Pa.