Service professions: Risks and recommendations
- August 6, 2018
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The catering market in France, a tourist country, is a vast economic sector.
The new lifestyles of our society are considerably increasing the number of meals eaten outside the home. The activity is growing and the number of employees in this sector as well. A sector victim of seasonality leading to a large number of employees on precarious contracts, young and inexperienced.
In order to protect them as well as possible from the risks that may be incurred, preventive measures must be put in place.
We find 2 types of trades in the catering sector: cooking trades and dining room service trades. We will focus on the latter: the work in the dining room concerning the waiters, bartenders, waiters and sommeliers, who ensure the service of meals and drinks at the table, at the buffet or at the counter.
The main risks involved:
- Risk of falls: The incessant movements at rapid steps to serve customers, straighten tables etc ... expose service professionals to the risk of falling on the same level by tripping or slipping.
- Risk of cuts: the rapid handling of trays, the use of the glass washer are sources of risk. Indeed, a glass which breaks, an awkwardness and a tray which falls and it is the accident.
- Risk of burns: When the plates are hot, wearing the gratin dishes. Sometimes the server quickly takes the dish and goes to the dining room for the service and it is the burn guaranteed!
- Risk of MSDs: The strong strain on the arms, standing work, trampling can lead to tendonitis, circulatory problems and spinal pain.
Preventative measures :
The first step is to ensure that the workspace is clear, in order to allow good movement of people and avoid any clutter on the ground.
The second step is to offer waiters and waitresses equipment adapted to their activity. Shoes with good grip and maximum comfort are essential to be able to practice this demanding profession.
To be completed with the appropriate training: Employees must be informed of the risks they may face and be trained in order to avoid them.
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