Summer tips to make working in the bakery more enjoyable

Summer is just around the corner!

Weather forecasts for Belgium predict hot days ahead, with some places even reaching temperatures of up to 30 degrees. It is important for bakers to be prepared for the summer heat, both in the bakery and in the shop. We have compiled some handy tips to help you.

1. Provide adequate ventilation

Adequate ventilation in the bakery is very important to promote good air circulation and dissipate heat. This contributes to a comfortable working environment, even during the hottest summer days.

2. Use strategically placed fans

Place fans at strategic spots in the bakery, targeting workstations and dough preparation areas, to reduce the heat and improve working conditions. Note: keep your products away from draughts.

3. Keep the bakery clean

Make sure the bakery is clean and free of excess dust and dirt. Dust can retain heat and increase the temperature. Regular cleaning contributes to a cooler working environment.

4. Knead your bread cool

If dough is too hot it’s not easy to work with. Therefore, use colder water than usual to prepare your bread dough. This allows you to better control the temperature of the dough. An ideal dough temperature for bread is 26°C.

5. Do not open the oven too often

Do not open the oven more often than necessary and let the hot vapour escape before removing the bread from the oven. Then close the door as quickly as you can to retain as much heat as possible in the oven.

6. Stay properly hydrated

In high temperatures, you lose more moisture, which increases the risk of dehydration. Therefore, it is essential that you drink enough water! Moreover, a well-hydrated team promotes productivity and increases resistance to the heat.

7. Wear light, breathable clothing

Provide light, breathable clothing for your staff that helps them stay cool in hot conditions. Short sleeves, shorts and breathable shoes are good options to keep the body temperature at a comfortable level.

8. Lower the temperature of the display counter

In hot weather, your products are more susceptible to spoil, so it is wise to lower the temperature of the display counter to keep the pastries cooler at the time of sale and to prevent the presentation from deteriorating due to the heat.

Use these summer tips to keep your bakery running efficiently and ensure working conditions are comfortable in high temperatures. By ensuring proper ventilation, hydration, strategic planning and attention to working conditions, you can improve the well-being of your staff and maintain productivity even during the hottest summer days.