Essential Maintenance for Commercial Catering Equipment – Stay Compliant!

Commercial catering equipment plays a crucial role not only in the hospitality and food service sectors but across a range of industries. From warehouses to schools, this equipment is relied upon daily to store, prepare, and serve food efficiently and safely. To remain compliant with the Health and Safety at Work Act, businesses must prioritise ongoing maintenance and ensure all catering equipment remains in safe, working condition.

Below, we explore the main types of commercial catering equipment that require regular servicing—and why it matters.

Commercial Freezers

Used by: Warehouses, supermarkets, logistics companies, commercial kitchens, and butchers.

Commercial freezers are designed to store large quantities of food at safe temperatures. When these units malfunction, food spoilage can occur quickly—leading to significant financial losses and potential health hazards.

Routine maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, ensuring temperature consistency and prolonging the lifespan of the unit.

Commercial Refrigerators

Used by: Supermarkets, food processors, retail stores, schools, colleges, medical centres, and office canteens.

From preserving perishable goods to storing medicines, commercial fridges are indispensable. In educational institutions and staff canteens, they are key to catering for large numbers of people.

Because these appliances often run 24/7, regular servicing is essential to ensure they remain energy-efficient, reliable, and compliant with food safety standards.

Ovens, Stoves, and Cooking Equipment

Used by: Commercial kitchens, supermarkets, food manufacturers, schools, and staff canteens.

The heart of any kitchen is its cooking equipment. Whether it’s a gas oven, stove, or industrial cooker, these machines are fundamental to daily operations. Poorly maintained equipment can pose serious risks, including fire hazards and gas leaks.

Keeping cooking appliances in top condition is essential for safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Ventilation Systems, Exhaust Fans, and Cooker Hoods

Used by: Any business operating a commercial kitchen.

Proper ventilation is vital in any commercial food preparation area. Exhaust systems remove grease, heat, steam, and odours, helping to maintain a safe and comfortable working environment.

Grease build-up in hoods and fans not only reduces efficiency but also creates a serious fire risk. Scheduled cleaning and maintenance are key to staying compliant and protecting your staff.

Why Maintenance Matters

Beyond compliance with health and safety regulations, regular maintenance helps:

• Avoid costly breakdowns

• Extend equipment lifespan

• Improve energy efficiency

• Maintain hygiene standards

• Ensure uninterrupted service

Need Help with Your Commercial Equipment Maintenance?

At The Oltec Group, we specialise in the maintenance and monitoring of commercial catering equipment across the UK. Whether you're operating a school kitchen, a retail store, or a large hospitality venue, we can help you stay compliant and operational.

Get in touch today to schedule a maintenance check or build a custom service plan that suits your needs.