Alcohol Safety Tips: 6 Crucial Server Safety Guidelines for This Holiday Season

Ossian Muscad
December 26, 2023
6:52 pm
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Last Updated on December 26, 2023 by Ossian Muscad

As the holiday season rolls around, the air becomes filled with festive cheer, celebration, and, unfortunately, a significant uptick in alcohol consumption. It’s a time for merriment and joy but also a period during which we witness an unfortunate increase in DUIs and alcohol-related incidents. Notably, more pedestrians lose their lives to drivers on New Year’s Day than any other day, with a significant portion of these tragedies linked to alcohol. This paints an alarming picture, underscoring the tips needed for restaurants and food businesses to prioritize alcohol safety.

This article will tackle six crucial alcohol safety tips that dining establishments can implement to ensure a safer, more enjoyable holiday season. That way, businesses can still take care of their bottom line while also caring for the well-being of their customers.

#1 Understanding the Impact of Alcohol

Alcohol affects the body in numerous ways. Firstly, it acts on the central nervous system, potentially impairing cognitive function, judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and even addiction. Here are some potential risks and challenges associated with excessive alcohol consumption:

Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries: Inebriated individuals are more likely to engage in risky behavior, leading to accidents and injuries. This is particularly concerning in a restaurant setting where there may be stairs, hot surfaces, or sharp utensils.
Health Consequences: Chronic heavy drinking can lead to a host of health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Addiction: Alcohol can be highly addictive, and individuals with an alcohol use disorder may find it difficult to stop or control their drinking.
Legal Ramifications: Restaurants and food businesses that over-serve alcohol might face significant legal repercussions if a patron is involved in a DUI or other alcohol-related incident after leaving their establishment.

Importance of Responsible Alcohol Service

Given these risks, restaurants and food businesses must prioritize responsible alcohol service. This responsibility protects patrons and helps the establishment avoid potential legal and reputational damage. Through effective training, clear policies, and diligent practice, restaurants can ensure that they are serving alcohol in a manner that prioritizes the safety and well-being of their customers.

#2 Compliance with Legal Regulations

Different legalities govern the selling and consumption of alcohol across states and regions, making it crucial for establishments to adequately understand and adhere to them. Some common aspects of these laws include the legal drinking age, typically 21 years in many states, restrictions on serving times, and requirements for server training programs. Servers play a pivotal role in maintaining compliance with alcohol service regulations. Their responsibilities include:

Checking Identification: By checking identification, servers must ensure that all patrons are of legal drinking age. This helps maintain a safe and responsible drinking environment.
Regulating Consumption: Servers should monitor patrons’ alcohol consumption and refrain from serving individuals who appear intoxicated. This promotes responsible drinking and prevents potential harm.
Promoting Safe Transportation: Encouraging designated drivers, taxis, or rideshare services can help prevent alcohol-related accidents. By prioritizing safe transportation options, we can protect patrons and the community.
Completing Mandatory Server Training: Many states require servers to undergo specific training that equips them with the knowledge and skills to serve alcohol responsibly. This ensures that servers are well-prepared to handle any situation and promotes responsible drinking practices.
Understanding Liability: Servers should be aware of their liability in the event of overserving a patron who later causes harm to themselves or others. Understanding liability helps servers make informed decisions and take appropriate actions to prevent potential harm.

Consequences of Violating Alcohol Regulations

Non-compliance with alcohol service regulations can lead to severe consequences. Understanding these consequences and taking the necessary precautions can help establishments avoid legal issues and protect their customers’ safety. Here are some notable consequences of non-compliance:

Legal Penalties: Establishments may face fines, suspension or annulment of their liquor licenses, or criminal charges. These consequences serve as a deterrent for non-compliance with liquor laws and regulations.
Reputation Damage: Violations can tarnish an establishment’s reputation, leading to loss of patronage and revenue. Maintaining a positive reputation is crucial for long-term success in the hospitality industry.
Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies may increase or terminate coverage following violations. This can significantly impact an establishment’s operational costs and financial stability.
Civil Liability: If a patron causes harm to themselves or others after leaving the establishment, the business may be held liable under ‘dram shop’ laws. Taking responsible serving practices seriously can help mitigate potential legal issues.
Personal Liability: Servers who serve minors or visibly intoxicated individuals may face personal liability for any damages caused by their actions. Understanding the legal implications and fulfilling the duty of care is essential to protect the establishment and the servers.

Understanding and adhering to these laws and regulations is crucial for the safe operation of any establishment serving alcohol, particularly during the bustling holiday season.

#3 Identification and Responsible Service

It is fundamentally essential for establishments serving alcohol to verify the legal drinking age of patrons by checking identification. This helps maintain a safe and responsible drinking environment and protects the establishment and servers from potential legal consequences.

The act of verifying IDs is a key element in the alcohol safety tips for restaurants, and it primarily prevents underage drinking, which is a severe offense with stringent penalties. It also demonstrates an establishment’s commitment to upholding alcohol laws and regulations, thereby gaining the community’s trust and respect.

Techniques for Identifying Signs of Intoxication

Recognizing the signs of intoxication in patrons is critical for the responsible service of alcohol. It is an essential part of a server’s role to monitor and manage patrons’ alcohol consumption. Here are some signs that can indicate a patron might be intoxicated:

Slurred Speech: One of the first noticeable signs. This can include difficulty pronouncing words and a lack of clarity in speech.
Impaired Motor Coordination: Difficulty walking straight or picking up items. This may also manifest as stumbling or clumsiness.
Changes in Behavior: Becoming overly emotional or aggressive. This can include sudden mood swings or uncharacteristic behavior.
Overconfidence: Engaging in risky or inappropriate behavior. This can involve excessive confidence in one’s abilities, leading to poor decision-making.
Flushed Face: An alcohol-induced redness in the face. This can result from increased blood flow and dilation of blood vessels.
Bloodshot or Glassy Eyes: A common sign of excessive consumption. This can indicate alcohol’s impact on blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a red or glossy appearance.
Slow Reaction Times: Delayed responses to conversation or action. This can include a decreased ability to react quickly and appropriately to stimuli.

Strategies for Responsibly Refusing Service to Visibly Intoxicated Individuals

Refusing service to visibly intoxicated individuals is a challenging but necessary aspect of responsible alcohol service. It requires tact, diplomacy, and, above all, a commitment to maintaining a safe environment. Here are some strategies that can be employed:

Offer Alternatives: In case a patron has had enough alcohol, it’s helpful to propose non-alcoholic drinks or food options as alternatives to further alcohol consumption. This ensures their safety and provides enjoyable possibilities to continue their evening.
Use ‘We’ Instead of ‘I’: When addressing the situation, it’s important to use inclusive language like ‘we’ instead of ‘I’. This approach shifts the responsibility from the individual server to the establishment’s policy, making it clear that the decision is based on guidelines set by the establishment rather than personal judgment.
Speak Privately: To handle the situation tactfully, it’s advisable to express your concerns discreetly and privately. This helps to avoid embarrassing the patron and allows for a more respectful and effective interaction.
Remain Polite but Firm: Maintaining a polite and professional tone while standing firm on the decision is crucial. This approach ensures the message is conveyed respectfully while asserting the establishment’s policies.
Enlist Help: If the situation escalates or becomes difficult to handle, involving a manager or security personnel can provide additional support and expertise. Their presence can help address any potential conflicts or issues that may arise.
Inform of Potential Consequences: Explaining the risks and potential consequences of overconsumption to the patron is essential. By providing this information, you help them understand the potential harm they may be exposing themselves to and encourage responsible behavior.
Suggest a Taxi or Rideshare: To ensure the patron’s safety and prevent any potential DUI incidents, it’s advisable to suggest alternative transportation options such as a taxi or rideshare service. This helps to promote responsible drinking habits and provides a practical solution for getting home safely.

#4 Effective Communication

Clear, respectful, and concise communication with patrons is a cornerstone of responsible alcohol service, especially during the festive holiday season. Good communication helps set expectations, prevent potential issues, and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Here are some reasons why clear communication with patrons is integral:

Preventing Misunderstandings: Clear communication helps avoid potential misunderstandings leading to conflict or discomfort.
Setting Expectations: By communicating your establishment’s policies and expectations upfront, you can help patrons understand and adhere to the rules.
Building Trust: Open and honest communication fosters trust between your establishment and the patrons, which can enhance your establishment’s reputation and patron experience.
Promoting Safety: Clear communication about responsible alcohol consumption can help maintain a safe environment for everyone present.
Facilitating Service Refusal: If a patron needs to be cut off, transparent and respectful communication can make the process smoother and less confronting.

Tips for Discussing Responsible Alcohol Consumption

Talking about limits and responsible drinking can be a sensitive topic, but it’s necessary to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment in your establishment. You can effectively convey the importance of moderation and responsible behavior by approaching these conversations with empathy, respect, and professionalism. Here are some tips:

Keep It Positive: Frame the conversation around the benefits of moderation, such as having a good time without negative consequences.
Make It About Safety: Your main concern is the patron’s well-being and safety.
Use Tactful Language: Be respectful and considerate in your choice of words to avoid offending or alienating the patron.
Reiterate Your Policy: Remind the patron of your establishment’s alcohol service policy and your responsibility to enforce it.
Offer Alternatives: Suggest non-alcoholic beverages or food options as alternatives to additional alcohol.

De-escalation Techniques for Handling Difficult Situations

Difficult situations may arise when serving alcohol, especially during busy holiday periods. Knowing how to de-escalate these situations can prevent conflicts from escalating and help maintain a safe and positive environment. Here are some de-escalation techniques:

Stay Calm: Maintaining your composure can help calm down an agitated patron.
Use Non-confrontational Body Language: Keep your body language open and non-threatening to avoid escalating the situation.
Listen Actively: Show the patron you’re listening and validating their feelings.
Use ‘I’ Statements: Frame your responses to express your perspective without blaming or criticizing the patron.
Seek Assistance: If necessary, don’t hesitate to involve your manager or security personnel.

#5 Encouraging Alternative Transportation

Servers bear a great responsibility in promoting safe transportation choices among patrons. They often act as the first line of defense against impaired driving, having the opportunity to directly influence patrons’ decisions about their travel arrangements after consuming alcohol. By staying mindful of patrons’ drinking habits and providing useful information about alternatives to driving, servers can significantly contribute to reducing alcohol-related accidents.

Servers can proactively share information about local transportation options with patrons. This could be as simple as keeping a stack of local taxi service business cards at the bar or having the numbers of local cab services readily available. In cities where ridesharing apps are prevalent, servers can encourage patrons to use these services as a safer alternative to driving.

Strategies for Preventing Patrons from Driving Under the Influence

Preventing patrons from driving under the influence is a pivotal aspect of alcohol safety, especially during the holiday season when alcohol consumption sees a significant spike. Here are some initial strategies:

Promote Awareness: Regularly communicate and remind patrons about the risks of drunk driving and the importance of responsible alcohol consumption.
Encourage Group Accountability: In cases where patrons arrive as a group, encourage them to assign a designated driver to refrain from drinking and ensure everyone gets home safely.
Partner with Local Transportation Services: Establishing partnerships with local taxi companies or ridesharing services can provide patrons with accessible and discounted alternatives to driving.
Offer Incentives for Responsible Choices: Consider offering non-alcoholic freebies or discounts to designated drivers to encourage responsible choices.
Implement a Policy for Safe Transportation: A clear policy that prioritizes the safety of patrons can be a strong deterrent against drunk driving. Make sure this policy is communicated effectively to all patrons.

#6 Emergency Response Preparedness

In the unfortunate event of an alcohol-related incident, being adequately prepared can make all the difference. All staff must be trained in emergency response procedures and know how to handle such situations effectively. This section will highlight the steps to ensure your establishment is ready to respond promptly and appropriately to any emergencies.

Training Servers in Basic First Aid and Emergency Response

Training your servers in basic first aid and emergency response can be invaluable in ensuring the safety of your patrons. This includes being able to recognize signs of alcohol poisoning, knowing how to perform CPR, and understanding how to respond to choking hazards, among other scenarios.

In the unfortunate event of an alcohol-related incident, these skills can potentially save lives. Many organizations provide certified first-aid training courses that can be completed within a few hours. Encourage your staff to attend these courses and consider making it a mandatory part of their training.

Establishing a Protocol for Handling Alcohol-Related Emergencies

Having a clear and well-understood protocol for handling alcohol-related emergencies is crucial. This protocol should set out the steps staff should take if they suspect a patron is at risk, including who they should contact when they should involve authorities, and what actions can be taken in their capacity as servers. Establishing a protocol may include:

Steps like cutting off alcohol service to the individual.
Informing supervisor or management.
Contact emergency services if necessary.
Documenting the incident for legal and insurance purposes.

The Importance of Communication with Management and Authorities

Transparent and prompt communication with management and authorities is essential in managing alcohol-related incidents effectively. Management should be notified immediately in severe situations so they can take necessary action and provide guidance to staff.

In cases where a patron’s safety is at risk or laws have been violated, it’s important to contact local authorities. This not only ensures the immediate situation is handled correctly but also helps in maintaining a legal record. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good relationships with local law enforcement and other relevant agencies and always act in alignment with the law.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What precautions should we take to ensure the alcohol we serve is safe and high-quality?

Ensuring the quality and safety of the alcohol you serve is paramount. Regularly verify the origins of your alcohol supplies and only purchase from reputable sources. Additionally, train your staff to inspect each bottle upon delivery to identify any potential signs of tampering.

Q2: How do you handle a patron who insists on driving despite being intoxicated?

If a patron insists on driving after consuming alcohol, it’s critical to take action. First, offer to call a taxi or an Uber/Lyft for them or suggest they use a designated driver. If they still refuse, you may need to involve management or, as a last resort, local law enforcement. It’s crucial to prioritize safety for the individual and the public over concerns about losing a customer.

Q3: What should you do if a minor attempts to purchase alcohol at my establishment?

A3: Strict adherence to age verification procedures is crucial for any establishment serving alcohol. If a minor attempts to purchase alcohol, politely refuse service and inform them about the legal consequences of underage drinking. All staff should be trained to check IDs carefully, and it may be worth investing in ID verification technology for added security.

Streamline Restaurant Protocol Implementation with DATAMYTE

DATAMYTE is a quality management platform with low-code capabilities. Our Digital Clipboard, in particular, is a low-code workflow automation software that features a workflow, checklist, and smart form builder. This tool lets you create checklists and workflows for any restaurant protocol you need to implement—including those related to alcohol safety.

DATAMYTE also lets you conduct layered process audits, a high-frequency evaluation of critical process steps, focusing on areas with the highest failure risk or non-compliance. Conducting LPA with DATAMYTE lets you effectively identify and correct potential defects before they become major quality issues.

With DATAMYTE, you have an all-in-one solution for implementing, tracking, and improving your restaurant’s alcohol safety protocols. Book a demo now to learn more.

Conclusion

Maintaining a safe environment in your establishment during the holiday season rests significantly on the shoulders of your servers. It involves adhering to six crucial safety guidelines: setting strict service limitations, ensuring staff are trained in recognizing intoxication levels, promoting non-alcoholic beverages and food, advocating for designated drivers, and implementing a policy for safe transportation.

This proactive approach can significantly reduce incidents related to excessive alcohol consumption. Servers are not just staff; they serve as custodians of a safe and enjoyable environment for your patrons. As we head into the festive season, let’s strive to foster an atmosphere of celebration that prioritizes safety. We wish all restaurant and food business owners, their teams, and their patrons a joyous, safe, and responsible holiday season.