Personal Safety Control Measures

Personal safety refers to the steps taken by individuals to protect themselves from health and safety risks in the hospitality and catering industry.
It is the fundamental right and responsibility of every employee and is closely linked with maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.
Recognising potential hazards and following best practice can significantly reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) often includes items such as gloves, aprons, and protective footwear. It is designed to minimise the risk of injury and illnesses.
Safety goggles or shields can protect the eyes from splashes, dust, and other hazards.
Heat-resistant equipment and Flame-Retardant (FR) clothing can protect employees from burns and scalds.

Hand hygiene is fundamental in preventing cross-contamination. This includes handwashing with hot water and soap, use of sanitiser, and removal of jewellery before preparing food.
Personal hygiene like maintaining clean uniform, having tidy hair, and not wearing excessive makeup or perfume can prevent food contamination and ensure safety in kitchen areas.
Regular health check-ups, especially for contagious conditions like colds and flu, can help prevent the spread of illnesses.

Ergonomic practices refer to designing the work environment in a way that promotes workers’ physical comfort and efficiency.
Regular stretch breaks, correctly adjusting chairs or work surfaces, and using supportive footwear can help alleviate body stress and prevent long-term damage.
Manual handling techniques should be applied when lifting heavy objects, using sharp tools, handling hot items or machinery, to prevent injury.

Risk assessments should be undertaken to evaluate potential hazards in the workplace and implement suitable preventative measures.
Basic first aid understanding is important in handling any minor injuries or emergencies that arise.
Staff should be familiar with safety procedures for fire risks, slips or trips, and the use of equipment, to prevent accidents.

Regular safety training sessions and workshops remain crucial for keeping up with new equipment, updated regulations, and changing circumstances.
Employees must know how to properly use and maintain PPE and kitchen equipment.
Training also enhances workers’ understanding of the risk factors associated with their jobs and how best to mitigate them.

Personal safety is integral to the hospitality and catering industry. Following proper safety protocols ensures a safer and more productive work environment.
Ongoing, it’s recommended that individuals strive to develop a strong safety culture that is sustained through continuous commitment, practices, trust, and communication.