Frequently Asked Questions
How can you be sure a “stainless steel” bench from another supplier is really made from 304 stainless throughout?
You often cannot. Some suppliers advertise benches as “fully stainless steel,” but that can mean only the top or bowl is 304, while hidden parts like legs, braces, or undershelves are made from cheaper grades such as 410 or even mild steel that has only been coated or finished to look the part. These shortcuts are more likely to rust, pit, or fail in washdown environments, creating hygiene and durability problems over time. Richmond removes this risk by building every part of our benches from true 304 stainless steel. That means no hidden compromises, no coated mild steel, and no rust-prone substitutes.
Can I install a stainless steel bench in a food preparation area?
Yes. Richmond benches are built using 304-grade stainless steel, a material specifically chosen because it is safe for food preparation and fully compliant with hygiene regulations. 304-grade stainless steel is non-porous, easy to sanitise, and highly resistant to rust, which makes it ideal for use in commercial kitchens, cafes, food manufacturing facilities, and hospitality venues. Its smooth surfaces prevent bacteria build up and can be cleaned quickly, reducing the risk of contamination. Whether the bench is used for meal preparation, equipment storage, or direct handling of food products, it meets industry standards for food-grade environments and ensures long-term safety.
Do you offer custom sizes or configurations?
Yes. Richmond can supply custom configurations upon request. Contact our team to discuss welded options, sink additions, or bespoke sizing.
If all benches are advertised as stainless steel, why does Richmond specify 304 stainless for every part?
Because not all stainless steel is created equal. Some suppliers advertise their benches as “fully stainless steel” but use cheaper grades like 410 for hidden components such as legs and undershelves. While technically stainless, 410 is far more prone to rusting and pitting in wet or chemical-heavy environments.Richmond removes this risk by manufacturing every part, from the benchtop to the undershelves, in true 304 stainless steel. This ensures consistent corrosion resistance, superior hygiene, and long-term durability across the entire bench, not just the visible surfaces.
Do you offer custom sink layouts or bench sizes?
Yes. While Richmond offers a wide range of standard benches and sinks in lengths from 900mm to 1800mm and widths around 600mm, we also understand that many workspaces require a more tailored solution. That is why we can provide custom layouts and dimensions to suit specific operational needs. Options include extended lengths, corner bench configurations, multi-bowl sink units, integrated drain boards, and adjustments to undershelves or splashbacks. Minimum order quantities may apply, so we encourage customers to contact our team directly. By discussing your requirements with our in-house engineers, we can design and manufacture equipment that maximises both functionality and available space.
Are stainless benches and sinks required for food safety?
In most food-related environments, benches and sinks made from stainless steel are strongly recommended to maintain compliance with hygiene standards. Surfaces used for food preparation or cleaning must be non-porous, resistant to corrosion, and easy to sanitise, which are all key benefits of stainless steel. This material does not absorb liquids or harbour bacteria, and it can be thoroughly cleaned using simple methods, reducing contamination risks. While stainless steel is the industry benchmark, it is always important to confirm your specific compliance obligations, as requirements may vary between organisations, sectors, or local regulations. Richmond benches meet food safety expectations across commercial kitchens, food processing plants, and hospitality venues.
How do I maintain stainless steel equipment?
Stainless steel equipment is designed to be durable, but proper care will extend its lifespan and keep it looking professional. Routine cleaning should involve wiping surfaces with warm water and mild detergent, followed by a thorough rinse and drying to prevent water spots or streaks. Always clean along the grain of the steel to minimise the appearance of fine scratches. Avoid using harsh or chlorine-based cleaning products, as these can damage the protective surface. For presentation or to restore shine, apply a food-grade stainless steel polish as needed. With consistent care, Richmond stainless steel benches and sinks will maintain their finish and performance for many years.
Why Choose Richmond Stainless Steel Equipment?
Full 304 Grade Stainless Construction
Richmond stainless steel equipment range is primarily built using 304 stainless steel across every surface and support structure. That includes benchtops, splashbacks, sink bowls, legs, shelves, cross-bracing, and adjustable feet. Using a single grade of food-safe stainless steel across our benches range eliminates the risk of rust-prone components and ensures consistent corrosion resistance throughout each unit.
304 stainless steel offers strong resistance to chemicals, water, and cleaning agents. It’s non-porous, easy to sanitise, and widely recognised as a hygienic material suitable for direct food contact. This makes it the industry standard for hospitality, food handling, and medical-grade work areas.
Why Stainless Steel Is a Hospitality Standard
Stainless steel has been used in commercial kitchens since the 1940s, replacing timber and enamelled work surfaces that absorbed moisture and harboured bacteria. As food safety standards evolved, stainless steel emerged as the preferred material for its hygienic properties, ease of cleaning, and durability in wet, high-heat environments.
In Australia, stainless benches and sinks are now a requirement under food premises regulations. Surfaces must be non-absorbent, corrosion-resistant, and able to be effectively cleaned and sanitised. Richmond’s equipment meets these requirements and is built to perform under constant use in restaurants, canteens, processing plants, and institutional kitchens.
Built for Commercial Use
Richmond benches and sinks are supported by stainless legs and reinforced bracing underneath the work surface or bowl. The bench tops are thick stainless sheet, reinforced with welded channels to prevent flex or sag under load. Sinks include integrated bowls welded to the frame, not dropped in, for a seamless finish that prevents grime buildup.
Undershelves, drawers, splashbacks, and adjustable feet are all stainless steel – not powder-coated or plated – ensuring full corrosion resistance. Mobile models are available with lockable stainless castors for flexible layouts and wash-down access.
Common Applications
- Commercial kitchens and restaurants
- Butchers, seafood and meat prep areas
- Bakeries and patisseries
- Catering kitchens and mobile food service
- School and aged care kitchens
- Laboratories and clean rooms
- Medical and pharmaceutical environments
- Food packing and wash-down zones
Whether for hand washing, food prep, or bulk clean-up, Richmond stainless steel benches and sinks support safe and compliant operation.
Key Features
- Complete 304 grade stainless steel construction
- Reinforced benchtops and fully welded sink bowls
- Integrated splashbacks (100mm or 150mm height options)
- Height adjustable stainless steel feet
- Optional lockable drawers and undershelves
- Mobile models with heavy-duty stainless castors
- Flat-pack design for lower freight and easy installation
- Compatible with Richmond stainless accessories and sink modules
Explore More Stainless Steel Solutions
Richmond’s stainless range goes beyond benches and sinks, we supply durable, food-safe equipment for every part of your workspace.
- Stainless Steel Trolleys
Transport goods safely with our mobile stainless trolleys, ideal for food service, medical, and commercial use. - Stainless Steel Shelving
Maximise storage with corrosion-resistant shelving for kitchens, cool rooms, and clean areas. - Bakery & Ingredient Racks
Purpose-built racks for bakeries, commercial kitchens, and prep areas.
Explore the full stainless steel equipment range to find exactly what you need.