The Importance of Properly Handling Restaurant Slip and Fall Incidents

The Importance of Properly Handling Restaurant Slip and Fall Incidents 

Slip and fall incidents in the hospitality industry are common, and while most don’t result in serious injury or a claim, the potential is always there. That’s why it’s crucial to train staff to respond to all incidents consistently and effectively. The small details in handling such an event can make a significant difference in the long-term impact on the business. Here’s a closer look at the steps a restaurant operator should take if someone falls in their restaurant.

Get Medical Attention Immediately

The health and safety of guests and staff must be the top priority during any slip and fall incident. If someone is injured, staff should call 911 immediately and render aid if possible. If the environment is unsafe or traumatic, it is important that everyone is removed from the area until it is secure.

File an Incident Report

Once the situation is under control, it’s time to document the incident. Having an incident report form readily available is essential. This form will guide staff in gathering all the necessary information, even in stressful situations. Incident reports should include:

• Names and contact information of staff, customers and any witnesses.
• Hard copies of video surveillance saved on a thumb drive or other digital storage device.
• Written accounts from those at the scene, if they are willing to provide them. Obtaining this information should be voluntary. No one should feel forced to give a statement, but it’s best to gather information while memories are fresh.

Gather Additional Evidence

Even if there’s no immediate sign of injury, the incident should be thoroughly documented by taking detailed notes, capturing video footage and photographing the scene. This documentation is crucial as injuries or claims may arise later.

In the digital age, capturing photos and videos with a smartphone is simple and effective. If the incident involved any property or equipment, it’s important to preserve it until the investigation is complete. Defective chairs, equipment or other products could be at fault, and having that evidence could be critical.

Report Claims Early

Finally, restaurant operators should report the incident to their insurance agent and carrier as soon as possible. This ensures the best possible outcome for all parties. Early communication allows claims professionals to establish contact with the claimant quickly, facilitating treatment and recovery. Prompt and detailed reporting is key to resolving the incident in the best way for everyone involved.

While most businesses strive to create a safe environment, accidents still happen. How a business responds can make all the difference.

Society Insurance was recently named in the Business Insurance Best Places to Work in Insurance 2023 program, which recognizes employers for establishing exceptional workplaces where employees can thrive, enjoy their work and help their companies grow. The company is known throughout the industry as a leader in providing superior restaurant and bar insurance, custom-tailored to fit each operation's unique needs. To learn more, visit societyinsurance.com/georgia.

This information is provided as a convenience for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is provided to assist you in recognizing potential unsafe work problems or conditions and not to establish compliance with any law, rule or regulation.