Young Worker Safety in Restaurants
Headset - Noise
Headset - Noise Car Exhaust
Strains and Sprains
Cash Register - Workplace Violence
Prolonged Standing
Drive-thru

The Drive-thru area of a restaurant offers young workers an opportunity for direct interaction with the customer, while learning food service and money handling skills. Young workers in this area may also be exposed to the following hazards:

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Safety Poster
 
Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence, against workers. It can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicides from behaviors initiated by customers, other employees, and employers. 

Potential Hazard

Do not Remember: Child labor laws restrict the hours and times young workers under the age of 18 can work.

Many workplaces, like restaurants, can be a target for workplace violence because of the presence of cash, the late work hours and contact with the public. Young workers may also be exposed to workplace violence in restaurant drive-thru windows. In addition, sometimes the drive-thru is located in a structure removed from the main restaurant, isolating the teen from the support of fellow workers.

Exposure to Car Exhaust

Possible Solutions


Young Worker Solutions
Employers have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following the safe work practices of their employers.
  • Use drop-boxes if available to deliver food to customers, especially late at night. 

  • Keep the back door locked unless receiving deliveries.

Employer Solutions
Employers have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following the safe work practices of their employers.
Consider implementing recommended safe work practices, including:
  • Install bulletproof glass and limited access barriers for drive-thru windows.

  • Increase workplace security by installing video surveillance, alarm systems, and door detectors.

  • Increase lighting in dimly lit areas such as parking lots and around trash dumpsters.

  • Locate drive-thru windows within the same building as the restaurant, rather than in the parking lot by itself.

  BookFor more information see, Serving - Workplace Violence.


Additional Resources


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