As the owner of your business, you are responsible not only for your own safety, but for the safety of each and every employee and patron. Within the walls of your establishment, it is up to you to put in place the best practices possible to limit the number of accidents and injuries. This is especially true for businesses within the foodservice industry.
Here, at MTI, we know that managing kitchen safety might seem challenging, but it really doesn’t have to be. So, we put together some great tips for keeping kitchen safety simple. Now, some of these may seem like common sense, but more often than not those are the ones that can be easily overlooked.
Check them out below!
Keep Your Protective Gear Easily Accessible
Have protective gear like, heat-resistant gloves, hairnets, and safety goggles readily available to staff members throughout the day. Try setting up a designated Pick-Up and Drop-Off area for these items so employees can easily find them at the beginning and end of each shift.
Proper Training Pays Off
Take the time to train your employees thoroughly. You can’t expect them to excel in their position if they were never given the means to do so. Training guides and videos are great tools that can be used to teach your staff how to approach everything from kitchen equipment operation to cleaning procedures. Businesses that use ventless kitchen equipment will benefit from their automation and the little training that is required for employees.
Be a Clean, Mean, Foodservice Machine
From the dining area to the back of the house, there isn’t an area of your establishment that shouldn’t sparkle. Not only does the cleanliness of your business represent the pride you take in your work, but it also helps protect your staff and guests from unexpected accidents or injuries. If a spill occurs, it is vital it is cleaned up as soon as possible in order to void someone slipping or falling. Oil or grease on stainless steel equipment or counter tops should also be taken care of without delay by using the best cleaners for the job. Nobody wants to end up with greasy butter fingers that could lead to dropping a glass or dish.
Bottom line folks, kitchen safety is just good business! Putting the wellbeing of your customers and employees first really reflects the effort and care invested in your company. And don't forget, we are here to help, so check back in each week for more tips, recipes and more!
Oh, and make sure to keep an eye out for our new monthly email feature, Did You Know?.
