By Admin, BuyLocalBG.com, BuyLocalBg@gmail.com/
Thursday, January 26th, 2011 9:00 AM CST
Booth Fire and Safety has been keeping many Chefs, Cooks, Servers and anyone else working in a restaurant safe for decades. The first aid kit to the systems in place to help alert the staff of danger are known to all. Yet, they also want to keep people safe with proper knowledge. That’s why with OSHAA’s help here is a Top 10 list to keep staff safe in a restaurant. Some of these the staff can do and some Booth Fire and Safety can help you complete the mission of safety!
1. Safely Operate Equipment– Follow manufacturer instructions and use all protective gear or safety guidelines for machines with sharp or dangerous parts.
2. Wash Hands Frequently- Thoroughly wash hands with warm soapy water before and after handling food, utensils, and equipment. Make sure hand-sinks are properly installed in all food preparation areas. This minimizes the transfer of harmful bacteria. Learn More
3. Take Care to Avoid Falls– Clean up spills immediately and remove any obstacles or wet spots on the floor. Consider enforcing slip-resistant shoes to minimize injuries from slipping on floors.
4. Wear a Proper Uniform– In addition to slip-resistant shoes, uniform standards may include hairnets, plastic gloves, and aprons. These prevent long hair, germs, and loose clothing from contaminating foods and getting caught in kitchen equipment.
5. Maintain Clean Personal Hygiene and Behaviors– Proper hygiene provides an extra safeguard against the transfer of harmful bacteria. Keep all smoking, eating, drinking, coughing, or sneezing away from food-preparation areas. Keep ill employees at home and away from the workplace. Plastic or latex gloves also reduce risks of cross-contamination
6. Be Wary of Burns– Burns from hot surfaces, water, oil, and food are common causes of injury in a kitchen environment. Take proper precautions and consider pot holders and oven mitts to provide extra protection to anyone working around hot equipment or food.
7. Use Caution with Sharp Edges– Knives, machine parts, equipment, and broken glass can all have sharp edges. Wearing cut resistant gloves can prove especially helpful when handling sharp objects.
8. Minimize Strains and Sprains- Train employees in proper lifting techniques and ways to eliminate excessive reaching or repetitive motion injuries. Anti fatigue mats are often helpful for employees who stand for long periods of time.
9. Handle Hazardous Chemicals with Care– Read labels, be familiar with Material Safety Data Sheets for any chemicals on the premises, and utilize any protective gear available.
10. Prepare for Emergencies– Implement an action plan for accidents, natural disasters, fires, violent situations, and other emergencies that may occur on the premises. Communicate the action plan to all employees.
If you need items to be safe in your restaurant, come by 538 State Street Bowling Green to Booth Fire and Safety. Call them at 270.781.3330 or check their website out and fan them on facebook. Remember, be safe and enjoy your holiday!
