613 Worker Safety in Restaurants

Serving Safety

Introduction

Strains and Sprains

Potential Hazard

Using awkward postures while serving food and bussing tables, may lead to back, neck, and shoulder strains and sprains.

Specific potential hazards include the following:

• balancing too many plates or glasses while serving or clearing tables
• balancing or lifting heavy trays above shoulder height
• lifting large and overfilled containers of dirty dishes
• repetitive reaching to serve customers or to clear tables
• moving and lifting tables and chairs to accommodate customers

Possible Solutions

Here are some techniques to help prevent sprains and strains:

• Avoid awkward postures if you must carry trays, plates, or beverages. If you serve with awkward postures, such as unsupported elbow and finger postures, it can increase your injury risk.
• Limit the number of plates or items you carry. When you carry more than a couple items, it puts extreme strain on your arms and back.
• Use both of your hands to carry items such as coffee pots or water jugs. Carry them with your elbows close to your body.
• Carry plates with your elbows close to your body to decrease the strain on your arms and back.
• Balance the load evenly. You should put heavier items in the center of the tray.
• Make sure trays are serviceable, clean, dry, and without defect before using.

Employers can do the following to help prevent injuries:

• If space permits, use serving carts to carry food. Employers should not require workers to carry heavy trays over their heads.
• If space permits, provide workers with a server's station close to the serving area.

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