Keeping cool in the kitchen is not only a necessary personality trait, but a literal physical concern. Chefs and line cooks regularly work in extremely high temperatures with few solutions to beat the heat. From room ventilation to chef coat material, there are many things restaurateurs can do to help keep kitchen staff cool while they are cooking.
- Remember to hydrate – keep water and electrolyte drinks readily available and encourage drinking even during busy times.
- Consider air conditioning – there are many options including air conditioned vent hoods which are not always practical when trying to heat food.
- Organize the walk-in – take time to cool down while still being productive by tidying up while you take a minute to soak up the cool air.
- Keep wet towels in the cooler for staff to use around their necks during the hottest, most busy hours.
It’s no secret kitchens are a fast-paced workplace with little time for proper breaks. If none of the above options are available to you or aren’t working well enough, consider changing up the kitchen uniform. When choosing clothes that will help keep staff cool keep in mind the following particulars:
- Looser-fitting clothing allows room for air to circulate which can help cool the body.
- Lightweight, natural materials like cotton and linen will breathe better than synthetics.
- Clothing and accessories with strategic holes or vents can help increase air circulation to the body.
- Lighter colors won’t absorb as much light keeping you cooler.
- Performance wear that is made for hot temperatures can help cool the body.
While it may not always be easy to find innovative chef apparel, some big companies are noticing this gap in the market. In June 2016 Dickies announced a partnership with Strategic Partners, Inc. where the pair have launched a line of performance workwear for chefs. The line features innovative technologies like a fluid resistance material that will repel liquids and is being used to make chef coats.
Keeping cool in the kitchen is a requirement, not an option. Help your staff stay safe and productive by checking up on their cooling techniques and tools.
Keeping cool in the kitchen is not only a necessary personality trait, but a literal physical concern. Chefs and line cooks regularly work in extremely high temperatures with few solutions to beat the heat. From room ventilation to chef coat material, there are many things restaurateurs can do to help keep kitchen staff cool while they are cooking.
- Remember to hydrate – keep water and electrolyte drinks readily available and encourage drinking even during busy times.
- Consider air conditioning – there are many options including air conditioned vent hoods which are not always practical when trying to heat food.
- Organize the walk-in – take time to cool down while still being productive by tidying up while you take a minute to soak up the cool air.
- Keep wet towels in the cooler for staff to use around their necks during the hottest, most busy hours.
It’s no secret kitchens are a fast-paced workplace with little time for proper breaks. If none of the above options are available to you or aren’t working well enough, consider changing up the kitchen uniform. When choosing clothes that will help keep staff cool keep in mind the following particulars:
- Looser-fitting clothing allows room for air to circulate which can help cool the body.
- Lightweight, natural materials like cotton and linen will breathe better than synthetics.
- Clothing and accessories with strategic holes or vents can help increase air circulation to the body.
- Lighter colors won’t absorb as much light keeping you cooler.
- Performance wear that is made for hot temperatures can help cool the body.
While it may not always be easy to find innovative chef apparel, some big companies are noticing this gap in the market. In June 2016 Dickies announced a partnership with Strategic Partners, Inc. where the pair have launched a line of performance workwear for chefs. The line features innovative technologies like a fluid resistance material that will repel liquids and is being used to make chef coats.
Keeping cool in the kitchen is a requirement, not an option. Help your staff stay safe and productive by checking up on their cooling techniques and tools.