Caterers provide a valuable service to people who want to enjoy a nice culinary experience without having to go to a restaurant. These professionals often work long hours doing difficult work.
There are considerable risks that come with this type of work. Catering companies must do all they can to ensure their workers remain safe.
Physical injuries
Caterers often handle heavy equipment, such as large trays, hot chafing dishes and bulky containers. The risk of physical injuries, including sprains, strains and back injuries, is significant, especially when lifting or carrying these items.
Burns and cuts
Handling hot food, scalding beverages and sharp utensils is a routine part of catering. This exposes caterers to the risk of burns from hot surfaces and scalding liquids, as well as cuts from knives and other sharp tools.
Slips, trips and falls
Caterers frequently work in unfamiliar environments with varying floor conditions. Wet or greasy floors, cluttered pathways and uneven surfaces can all lead to slips, trips and falls.
Stress and fatigue
The catering industry often involves long hours, fast-paced work and tight deadlines, which can lead to stress and fatigue. This affects mental well-being and can also increase the likelihood of accidents and mistakes.
When an employee of a catering company suffers an injury, they need to get immediate medical attention. Workers’ compensation should cover the costs of that care. Other benefits may be possible for more serious injuries. Unfortunately, these benefits aren’t always provided as they should so some workers may have to fight for what they’re supposed to receive.