This alarming article caught my eye when I was looking for evidence to back up a piece I was writing about the benefits of our industry specific online training "Hospitality Essentials", which covers safe working, hygiene safety standards and fire prevention and evacuation.The headline pretty well says it all! However, I felt this article from The Caterer was worth drawing to the attention of group members who may have a particular interest in the hospitality/catering industry.
We know that best practice in hygiene safety and fire prevention is vital knowledge for all staff in the hospitality business, and obviously something has gone drastically wrong in those areas in these two examples. Thankfully, there is no mention that anyway was hurt and that guests and staff were safely evacuated.
The article clearly spells out why proprietors and staff need to be aware and trained in correct health and safety procedures back of house, as well as front of house. Often the responsibility for clearing up and washing and drying dirty tea towels and cloths is not necessarily a responsiblity of kitchen staff but is delegated to waiting staff, or even a manager at close of business.
As Darren Seward, of NFU Mutual insurance says in the article, “An unsuspecting mistake could put people in danger and cost your business thousands of pounds if there is a fire.”
Food for thought indeed.
Steven Newton
Director, Isosure Ltd, where “Good Health and Safety Doesn’t Happen by Accident”
