People who work in the back of house of a restaurant have to work at a fast pace and often face risks that can lead to significant injuries. The back-of-house area includes the food prep area, dishwashing station, kitchen and other workspaces.
Workers in the back of house often work with heavy equipment, sharp tools, hot surfaces and substances and slippery floors. These can all lead to accidents that can cause catastrophic injuries.
Common back-of-house injuries
The job duties of a person who’s working in the back of house determine the specific hazards a person faces. Knives, mandolins and slicers can all cause lacerations that may require stitches. In extreme cases, they can cause traumatic amputations. Hot ovens, stovetops, fryers and boiling liquids can all cause scalding or burns.
Having to lift heavy items, such as cases of food, can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. Using kitchen equipment can require the user to stand or move in ways that put a strain on the body. Repetitive tasks can lead to overuse injuries.
The floors in the back of house are often slippery. Even if a worker wears slip-resistant shoes, there’s still a risk of slipping. Cleaning spills and using proper signage in slick areas can reduce the risk of falls.
Any back-of-house worker who suffers an injury should get medical attention right away. Workers’ compensation can cover those expenses and may provide other benefits, depending on the severity of the injury. It may be beneficial for those workers to seek the assistance of someone familiar with these matters.