Usually not at the same time, and in many jurisdictions not at all. A three compartment sink is meant for washing, rinsing and sanitizing wares. Many health departments require a separate prep sink for washing produce and thawing food, so dirty dish water never touches food. Some allow a compartment sink to be used for prep if it is cleaned and sanitized first and never used for both jobs at once. Ask your local health department which approach they accept.
One model to look at: our pre-rinse basket with slides.
Why the Rules Separate the Two Jobs
A three compartment sink handles dirty pots, pans and utensils. Food debris, grease and bacteria from raw meat end up in it. Washing lettuce in the same bowl an hour later risks cross contamination, even after a rinse. A dedicated prep sink removes that risk. That is why many plan reviewers ask for a separate food prep sink in any kitchen that washes produce or thaws food under running water.
When a Compartment Sink May Be Allowed for Prep
Some smaller operations get approval to use one compartment of a sink for prep, as long as it is cleaned and sanitized before and after, and no ware washing happens at the same time. This is a local decision. If your plan relies on this, get it in writing from your reviewer before you build.
What a Prep Sink Looks Like
A prep sink is often a one or two compartment sink with a drainboard, placed near the prep tables and walk-in. The drain often has to connect indirectly to the sewer through an air gap, so contaminated water cannot back up into the bowl. A licensed plumber can confirm your local requirement.
Prep and utility sink with faucet
Prep and utility sinks, 1, 2 and 3 compartment options
EKQ-WTPS work table with built-in prep sink and faucet
The Three Compartment Sink’s Real Job
Wash in the first bowl, rinse in the second, sanitize in the third, then air dry on a drainboard. The sanitizer must be at the right concentration and contact time for the product you use. Most health departments require drainboards on both ends, or a drainboard and a dish table, so dirty and clean wares do not mix. Bowl size should fit your largest pot.
S3C-141612-NF 47 x 22 three compartment sink
S3C-181812-NF 59 x 24 three compartment sink
S3C-242414-RL-NF 120 x 30 NSF three compartment sink
Planning for Both Sinks in a Small Kitchen
Space is usually the problem. Options include a compact one compartment prep sink next to the walk-in, a work table with a built-in prep sink, or a three compartment sink on one wall and a prep sink on the opposite wall. Keep the prep sink away from the dish area so splashes from dirty wares do not reach it.
Grease Traps and Drains
Three compartment sinks usually drain through a grease trap. Prep sinks often need an indirect drain. Your plumber will design both. Plan the grease trap location before you order sinks.
Questions to Ask Your Health Department
- Do I need a separate prep sink for my menu?
- Can one compartment of my three compartment sink be approved for prep?
- Does the prep sink need an indirect drain?
- How many drainboards does my ware washing sink need?
Next Steps
Compare 3 compartment sinks and 1 compartment sinks for a dedicated prep station. Questions? Contact Express KitchQuip and we will help you pick the right size and configuration.
Models in this guide at a glance
The models linked above are listed here with the main points from each product page, so you can compare them side by side before opening the full listings.
Stainless Steel Prep & Utility Sink with Faucet | Heavy Duty Single Bowl (27″ x 27.5″)
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
- The Stainless Steel Prep & Utility Sink is a complete, high-capacity washing station featuring a built-in faucet for immediate use.
- It offers a perfect blend of durability and convenience for any commercial or residential space.
Prep & Utility Sinks 1,2 and 3 Compartment Options
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
- Prep & Utility Sinks 1,2 and 3 Compartment
- 18GA Steel Durable build
- Multi-Compartment Spacious bowls
Express KitchQuip Stainless Steel Work Table with Built-In Prep Sink & Faucet – NSF Certified (model EKQ-WTPS-7230-L)
S3C-141612-NF 47″ x 22″ Three Compartment Stainless Steel (model S3C-141612-NF)
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
- 47″ x 22″ three compartment stainless steel sink designed for compact commercial kitchens.
- Features (3) 14″ x 16″ x 12″ bowls, durable stainless steel construction, and NSF certification for professional foodservice use.
S3C-181812-NF 59″ x 24″ Three Compartment Stainless Steel (model S3C-181812-NF)
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
- 59″ x 24″ commercial three compartment stainless steel sink with three 18″ x 18″ x 12″ bowls.
- NSF certified for restaurants, kitchens, bakeries, and foodservice prep areas.
S3C-242414-RL-NF 120″ x 30″ NSF three compartment stainless (model S3C-242414-RL-NF)
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
- 120″ x 30″ three compartment stainless steel sink designed for commercial kitchens.
- Features (3) large 24″ x 24″ x 14″ bowls, durable stainless steel construction, and NSF certification for professional foodservice use.
Before you order
- Measure the space and every doorway on the delivery path, and compare them with the dimensions on each product page.
- Check the spec sheet for power, gas or water requirements and match them to what your building has.
- Compare capacity with your busiest day rather than your average day.
- Read the warranty terms for the brand before you order.
Delivery, warranty and payment
- Delivery: delivery within the continental US is included in the price on the product page, and freight orders include liftgate service.
- Warranty: each product carries its manufacturer warranty. Terms by brand are on our warranty page.
- Financing: lease-to-own financing through Clicklease is offered on items of $500 and up. See how financing works.
- Quotes: buying for a business and need a written quote? Call +1-877-558-2253 or use our contact page.
Not sure which model fits?
Call +1-877-558-2253 with your space, power supply and daily volume, and we will help you narrow it down.