Working in the food and beverage and hotel industry can often be a very physically demanding job. Lots of walking, bending, stretching, plus working around hot ovens, dishwashers and grills can cause everything from sprained muscles to third degree burns. Keep the following tips in mind to stay safe and injury free.
- Make sure you are properly trained on any and all equipment you are required to use, including meat slicers, dishwashers and bakery ovens. Simply knowing the correct method of operation can reduce the chances of serious burns and lacerations.
- Food safety expert, Jeff Nelken says, “Slips and falls statistically land at the top of the list of accidents that occur in food service kitchens.” Training employees to be aware of wet floors, slippery rubber mats, and greasy and slick areas and to always wear slip-resistant shoes can alleviate many of these accidents.
- Lessen the chance of getting burned by keeping liquids away from fryers, paying close attention to foods covered in ice crystals going into a fryer, using protective gloves instead of dishtowels or aprons around hot handles and ovenware, turning off stove burners when not in use and never carry a heavy container of a hot liquid by yourself. Also, be careful around a commercial dishwashing machine. The hot water temperature is usually so high, steam burns can easily occur.
- Lodging housekeeping employees are often plagued with musculoskeletal injuries including repetitive motion trauma. Stretching before beginning a work shift, using proper lifting techniques, asking for assistance when tackling a heavy or awkward chore such as flipping a mattress and using long handled equipment whenever possible to reduce bending and stretching are all good practices which may prevent or lessen the severity of physical ailments.
- Check to see if your place of employment has and follows a safety workplace plan. Also, depending on the job description don’t hesitate to ask if personal safety equipment such as goggles, rubber gloves, face protection and skid-resistant booties are provided. When an injury does occur, report it to your supervisor immediately.
Searching for a bartender, chef or front desk position in and around the St. Louis area? Contact Staffing One Services for assistance.