What should I do if the dishwasher breaks down during service?

Date modified: 1st June 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to manage food safety.
Bar service and hospitality operations

If your dishwasher breaks down during service, immediately stop using it to prevent any further issues. Switch to manual dishwashing and report the breakdown to a manager using the Pilla app. Make sure to follow the corrective actions listed to maintain hygiene and safety standards.

Common misunderstanding: You can continue using the dishwasher until the end of service before reporting it.

Continuing to use a broken dishwasher can increase the problem and compromise the cleanliness of your dishes. It's important to stop using it immediately and switch to manual washing.

Common misunderstanding: Towel drying dishes after manual washing is acceptable if the dishwasher breaks down.

Always allow dishes to air-dry after manual washing. Towel drying can spread contaminants and compromise the sanitation process.

Common misunderstanding: Reporting the issue to a supervisor in person is enough.

While informing a supervisor directly is helpful, officially logging the issue in Pilla creates a digital paper-trail which is crucial for compliance and inspections.

Common misunderstanding: You only need to report major breakdowns.

All breakdowns, regardless of their perceived severity, should be reported to make sure of proper tracking and resolution.

What immediate steps should I take after identifying a breakdown?

After identifying a dishwasher breakdown, prioritise washing essential items manually and maintain frequent handwashing and glove use among staff handling dishes.

Common misunderstanding: It’s okay to delay manual washing if the breakdown seems minor.

Even minor breakdowns can affect the sanitation level of dishes. Switch to manual washing immediately to ensure all dishes are properly cleaned and sanitised.

Common misunderstanding: Manual washing is as effective as machine washing.

Manual washing might not achieve the same level of cleanliness and sanitisation as machine washing, so it’s important to be extra thorough and inspect all dishes closely.

UK Official Guidance