Accidents In The Catering Industry

Workers in the food and catering industry are exposed to a range of dangers on a daily basis. Since they are required to complete work at a fast pace, there are times when accidents take place. Other factors which contribute to accidents and injuries in the catering industry include hot food and drinks, electrical appliances and sharp tools. If safety and health is not managed well in these areas, it is possible for accidents to take place.

Every employer has a responsibility towards their workers. They have a responsibility to protect workers from risks of injuries and accidents. If you are employed to work in the catering industry as a cook, waiter, bartender, chef or waitress, you may be able to put up an injury claim if you have been hurt due to someone else's negligence.

Common Types of Accidents Suffered By Workers In The Catering Industry

Burns and Scalds

One of the most obvious types of injuries sustained by workers in the catering industry is burns and scalds. Workers in the catering industry are mostly required to prepare food and handle hot food, hot drinks, beverages and even boiling water. Burn and scald injuries can also be caused by coming into contact with fryers, ovens, grills and hobs. In every work environment including the catering industry, employers are required to eliminate risks of dangers. If risks cannot be eliminated completely, they must be minimised to a reasonable level. In addition, they must provide appropriate personal protective equipment to the workers to enable them to perform their tasks safely.

Slips and Trips

Slips and trips are also common in this industry. These kinds of accidents mostly take place when kitchen floors and work areas are not cleaned and kept free from hazards. To prevent these kinds of accidents from taking place, it is important that kitchens and food serving areas are kept clean and free from hazards.

Lacerations

In a commercial kitchen, workers are mostly required to work with a variety of sharp tools such as cleavers, slicers, knives and graters. When workers are not adequately trained on how to use these tools properly, they are likely to get involved in accidents and sustain injuries such as lacerations and cuts.

Making A Work Injury Claim

Whether you work as a waiter, waitress, chef or cook, you may be entitled to make a work injury claim if you have been hurt whilst working in the catering industry.