How to Handle Spills as a Waiter

Dealing with minor emergencies such as spills is one of the many jobs you need to do as a waiter or waitress. There is a way to take care of this problem smoothly without upsetting your patrons. The following will show you how a good waiter should take care of and clean up a spill.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Remain calm.

2. Help those at the table back up in their seats if the spill happens to occur as you are standing nearby and the spill threatens to land on those at the table.

3. Pick up the glass and set it upright.

4. Take a towel and calmly wipe up the spill as best you can. Make sure that you are handling this problem and that your customers are not.

5. Start from the end of the table and work your way toward the middle to ensure that the liquid does not spill off onto anyone at the table.

6. Scoop any ice off the table by neatly wiping it off the edge and into the drinking glass with your towel. Make sure there is no remaining liquid or ice when you are finished.

7. Tell your customers that it is no big deal as you take care of the spill. Give other reaffirming words to your customers if they seem upset.

8. Assure your customer that you will get them a fresh drink right away.

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your customers that it is your job as the waiter to clean the spill if they try to help. It is your job to handle spills and their job to enjoy themselves. If they wanted to clean, they would have eaten at home.
• Do not get upset or panic. Your overexcited mood will quickly spread to those at the table and change the mood to an undesirable one.

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