I'm Sandra Adams, a blogger and enthusiast of many eclectic targets, including pottery and industrial equipment and supplies. I've traced my family tree as far back as I can go and there is not one moment where my family hasn't been involved in manufacturing. My dad worked as a mechanic repairing industrial machinery and if it wasn't for me, he wouldn't have anyone to pass down his knowledge to. I've always wanted to know what my dad was up to, so I'd ask him what he did everyday. I've always been really curious and this has lead me to develop a really strong understanding of industrial equipment. My love for industrial equipment hasn't waned and now I feel like sharing this knowledge with others. I've created this blog for this exact purpose.
If your bakery has equipment in your kitchen or freezer that is on casters, it can be downright dangerous if any of those casters malfunction. The right casters can make all the difference, but that is only part of the equation. Repairing and replacing casters is important, but so is keeping the area primed and ready for material on casters to be moved safely from place to place. Your employees must have the proper training in material handling as well. The following is a list of tips to keep you and your employees safe while moving equipment or shelving that is on casters.
Don't Overload
Before you order casters, consider the heaviest loads you will be moving. The units with casters that you order should be able to hold a portion of weight over that amount. If you have an industrial scale, consider placing a test load, for example, 500 lbs., on the scale to see exactly what 500 lbs looks like before loading up your item on casters.
Map the Route
Before transporting a heavy load from one area of the bakery to another, clear the path as much as possible ahead of time. Note any bumps, slopes, or sharp corners that may be troublesome when handling material near that area.
Consider the Surface
If your casters are moving from a slippery freezer floor to concrete and back again, make sure that you invest in casters that won't corrode, rust or pit. Stainless steel casters will stand up to wet surfaces and stay smooth over time. Stainless steel casters will cost more from the outset, but over time they will save you money because they will not need to be replaced the way that other casters might. Their strength and resistance to decay will not only keep you and your employees safe, but save you money in the long run.
Do Your Research
When your order your casters, take the time to talk with an expert at the company you are ordering from. Tell them the weight of the loads that you will be moving, storage conditions, and the types of surfaces that the casters will be moving over. Let the person know if there are any sharp corners that the casters have to make it around, or steep inclines or declines that you will need to travel over. If the items on casters will be moving from the freezer to other areas, be sure to let the rep know this as well. The company rep will be able to suggest specific casters that utilize appropriate rivets, bolts, bearings, and materials that will be perfect for your bakery's needs.
Share16 October 2015
