If you work in the food service industry, whether as a chef, waiter, fast food worker, kitchen assistant, dining room attendant/busser, cashier and so on, you may be susceptible to certain injuries. If you sustain an injury while working, your employer may be required to cover your damages.
Here are four examples of injuries you may sustain:
1. Burns
Workers in the food service industry are at a higher risk of burns than those in other industries. The appliances used in the kitchen, such as deep fryers and ovens, can burn a worker when putting food in or removing it. Further, steam and splashing hot liquids/oil contribute to scalds in kitchens.
Additionally, food service workers constantly come across hot surfaces when moving around. These include grill surfaces, stovetops, oven doors, food trays, pans and plates.
2. Cuts
Cuts and other types of lacerations caused by sharp objects, including knives, slicers and other cutting tools, are not uncommon among food service workers.
3. Slip and fall injuries
Kitchens with slippery floors caused by grease or water are likely to report slip and fall accidents. Other contributing factors to slips and falls among food service workers are recently polished floors, unsecured mats/rugs, uneven floors, poor lighting, narrow walkways and cluttered walkways.
A slip and fall can result in sprains, broken bones, back injuries, head injuries, burns, cuts etc.
4. Muscle strains and sprains
Most of the work in the food industry requires repetitive motion, such as slicing, dicing, scooping and cutting. These motions can lead to muscle pain.
Businesses in the food industry should train employees sufficiently, implement strict safety measures and allow employees to take breaks frequently. These businesses should also maintain high sanitation standards and design their rooms correctly, for example, a kitchen layout that allows safe movements. If you sustain a work-related injury, seek legal guidance to receive the compensation you deserve.
