While a great drink can enhance the hospitality experience, it also comes with responsibility. Ensuring drink safety not only protects your guests but also safeguards your business from liability and reputational harm.
Why Drink Safety Matters
Alcohol-related incidents can happen quickly and have serious consequences, ranging from impaired driving to alcohol poisoning. In addition, contaminated or tampered drinks pose growing concerns in nightlife settings. A strong commitment to safety demonstrates to guests that you care and helps your staff feel confident in handling difficult situations.
Here are some practical tips you can easily make:
1. Keep Your Staff Updated
Staff should be trained to recognize the signs of intoxication, handle difficult situations diplomatically, and know when to stop serving a guest. To keep everyone sharp, you may want to consider refresher courses in responsible beverage service.
Hospitality Insurance Group partners with trusted training agencies to make this easier. Through programs like Home of Training and VIP Safety Strategies, insureds can access expert instruction. Better yet, those who complete the program may qualify for premium discounts on Liquor Liability and Assault & Battery coverage.
2. Control the Pour
Overpouring not only increases costs but also accelerates intoxication. Use standardized pourers, jiggers, or pre-set systems to ensure consistency and guest safety.
3. Protect Against Drink Tampering
Encourage vigilance among staff, especially in busy bar environments. Drinks should never be left unattended behind the bar, and suspicious behavior, like a guest hovering over someone else’s glass, should be addressed immediately. Offering tamper-evident covers for cocktails or beer glasses is an extra step some establishments are taking.
4. Offer Safe Alternatives
Providing non-alcoholic options such as mocktails, sodas, or NA beers helps encourage moderation and gives designated drivers a reason to enjoy their experience without alcohol.
5. Create a Plan for Getting Home Safely
Partner with local rideshare services or display taxi numbers prominently so guests have easy access to safe transportation. Some establishments even offer discounts for designated drivers.
6. Keep Glassware and Garnishes Clean
Food safety applies to drinks too. Ensure glassware is sanitized properly and garnishes like citrus or herbs are stored and handled according to food safety standards.
Building a Culture of Safety
Drink safety is more than a checklist; it’s part of creating a positive environment where guests feel cared for and respected. When staff are trained, procedures are in place, and management sets the tone, businesses reduce risks and foster customer loyalty.
At Hospitality Insurance Group, we’re proud to support safer service through both coverage and education. By completing our partnered training programs, insureds not only gain valuable knowledge but may also qualify for discounts on Liquor Liability and Assault & Battery coverage. That’s a win for your guests, your staff, and your bottom line.