Episode 11 - Health & Safety: Getting It Right
Episode 11 - Health & Safety: Getting It Right
Hey Store Manager! Mike here on "Smoke Break." Today we're talking about something that might not be exciting, but it's absolutely crucial - health and safety compliance. By the end of this chat, you'll understand how to keep your store safe and legal.
Listen, I know health and safety rules can feel overwhelming. But think about this - every rule exists because something bad happened somewhere. Our job isn't just following rules - it's protecting people.
Let's start with food safety. Those temperature logs might seem like busywork, but they're your first line of defense against making customers sick. Check your cooler temperatures at least twice daily. Keep logs current. When in doubt, throw it out. The cost of replacing food is nothing compared to the cost of making someone ill.
Your coffee area needs special attention. Clean those machines daily - not just the pots, but the nozzles, drip trays, everything. Mold loves warm, wet places. And customers notice when things aren't clean.
Employee safety matters just as much. Those "wet floor" signs aren't just suggestions. Every slip and fall could mean serious injury and major liability. Make sure your team knows proper lifting techniques. Keep walkways clear. Check emergency exits regularly.
Here's something often overlooked - chemical safety. Those cleaning supplies under your sink? They need proper labeling and storage. Keep cleaning chemicals away from food areas. Make sure your team knows what to do if chemicals splash or spill.
Documentation is your friend. Keep detailed records of everything - cleaning schedules, temperature checks, maintenance work. If something happens and there's no record, legally it's like it never happened. Good records protect you and your store.
Your first aid kit - when's the last time you checked it? It should be fully stocked and easily accessible. Your team should know where it is and how to use what's in it. Check expiration dates monthly.
Emergency procedures need regular practice. Fire extinguishers, emergency exits, evacuation plans - these aren't "set and forget" items. Run drills. Make sure new employees know the procedures. Update emergency contact numbers regularly.
Question: Why is it important to maintain detailed cleaning and temperature logs, even when nothing seems wrong?
Think about it. The answer? Those logs are your proof of due diligence. If something goes wrong, they show you were taking proper precautions. Without them, you're vulnerable to claims of negligence.
Your action item for this week: Do a complete health and safety audit of your store. Check every piece of equipment, every procedure, every record. Make a list of anything that needs updating or fixing. Then make a plan to address each item.
Don't forget to hit subscribe for more "Smoke Break" episodes. Share these tips with other managers - we all win when we help each other stay safe and compliant.
For more resources on running a safe and compliant store, visit cstorethrive.com.
That's all for today, Store Manager. Next time, we'll tackle alcohol and tobacco compliance. Until then, keep your store safe and your team protected!
