A commercial hand sink is a health-code requirement in every food business – a dedicated handwashing station where staff can wash properly without touching prep or dish sinks. Babak Food Equipment offers stainless steel wall-mounted, free-standing and drop-in hand sinks, including hands-free models, for restaurants, cafés, bakeries, bars, food trucks, caterers and institutional kitchens across Vancouver and British Columbia – from brands such as Thorinox, Atosa and Efi.
Types of commercial hand sinks
Wall-mounted hand sinks
Wall-mounted hand sinks are the most common style in commercial kitchens. They take up no floor space, keep the floor clear for cleaning and come in compact sizes for tight spots. Many include a backsplash and can be fitted with side splashes.
Free-standing and pedestal hand sinks
Free-standing hand sinks sit on legs or a pedestal and are useful where a wall can’t support a sink or where plumbing runs through the floor.
Drop-in hand sinks
Drop-in bowls are set into a counter or work table, a clean option for front counters, bars and custom stations.
Hands-free hand sinks
Knee-operated, foot-pedal and sensor faucets let staff wash and rinse without touching the tap, cutting the risk of re-contaminating clean hands – a popular choice for food prep areas, healthcare and labs.
How to choose a commercial hand sink

Location: hand sinks must be easy to reach from each work area. Many kitchens need more than one, plus a separate sink at the bar and in washrooms.
Faucet and water: a hand sink needs hot and cold water through a mixing faucet. Check whether the faucet is included or ordered separately, and whether you want hands-free operation.
Size: choose a bowl large enough to wash hands and forearms without splashing. Compact models suit tight spaces but check your local health authority’s minimums.
Splash protection: side splashes or a barrier are often needed when a hand sink sits next to food prep or clean dish areas.
Accessories: plan room for a soap dispenser, paper towel dispenser and waste bin – some models include brackets or holders.
Material and mounting: stainless steel resists corrosion and is easy to sanitize. Confirm the wall bracket, drain and supply positions with your plumber.

Why buy your commercial hand sink from Babak Food Equipment?
Babak Food Equipment has helped kitchens open and pass inspection for more than 20 years and holds a 4.9★ Google rating from 380+ reviews. Our team can help you choose hand sinks for every station, alongside 3 compartment sinks and bar sinks, so your washing setup is planned as a whole. Delivery and installation options are available across BC – details and costs are discussed when you order. Browse all other sinks or ask about certified used restaurant equipment.
Hand sink types at a glance
TypeTypical bowl sizeBest forWall-mountedAbout 10–14 in (25–36 cm) wideMost kitchens, tight spacesFree-standing / pedestalAbout 14–20 in (36–51 cm) wideWalls that can’t carry a sinkDrop-inVaries by modelCounters, bars, custom stationsHands-free (knee/foot/sensor)Varies by modelPrep areas, healthcare, labs
Frequently asked questions
What are the regulations for hand wash sinks in commercial kitchens?
Food-safety rules generally require dedicated hand sinks that are easy to reach, supplied with hot and cold running water, and stocked with soap and single-use towels. Exact requirements are set by your local health authority, so check before you build.
What do you call a hand sink?
It may be called a hand wash sink, hand washing sink, hand basin or hand washing station. In a commercial kitchen it is used only for washing hands, not food or dishes.
How high should a commercial hand sink be?
Hand sinks are commonly mounted with the rim at about 34–36 inches (86–91 cm) from the floor, but local building, health and accessibility rules can set different heights.
What must a hand sink have?
Hot and cold water through a mixing faucet, soap, single-use paper towels or a hand dryer, and a waste container. Many inspectors also expect a handwashing sign.
Can I use a prep sink or 3 compartment sink to wash hands?
No. Food-safety rules require a dedicated hand sink. Prep and dish sinks must not be used for handwashing, and hand sinks must not be used for food or dishes.
Availability, pricing, warranty terms, delivery and installation are confirmed at the time of purchase – request a quote on any model or call our team at (604) 566-9747.