- Many electrical hazards can exist at restaurants, including worn wires, improperly grounded outlets and water near electrical sources. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are power outlets (or sometimes they are installed directly in the main breaker) that automatically shut off the power when they detect a potentially life-threatening problem. OSHA advises the use of GFCIs in areas where electricity and water must coexist, such as kitchens. Check wiring regularly for wear and exposed wires. All employees should be trained on the dangers of electrical hazards in the restaurant, and OSHA recommends having at least one employee trained in CPR working on each shift in case of emergency.
- OSHA's website recommends keeping floors free of debris and other objects that may result in a fall. Floors should also be kept dry to avoid the risk of injuries from slips and the growth of mold and bacteria. When the floor is wet, make sure there is a caution sign present. Some steps that can be taken in the kitchen area and public areas to avoid slips and falls on wet surfaces include using no-skid waxes or matting on the floor. OSHA's website indicates that a restaurant should have a sufficient number of outlets so that cords do not have to be run along the floor, creating a tripping hazard.
- There are many risks of fire in a restaurant, some obvious and others not so obvious. Proper cleaning procedures must be maintained in a restaurant. This includes cleaning the grease traps regularly to prevent grease fires. It also includes regular cleaning of the ducts to avoid flue fires. Store flammable liquids away from stoves and other cooking areas in the restaurant that could ignite the liquids. Be prepared for potential fires in the restaurant by having multiple fire extinguishers in the kitchen and serving areas of the restaurant. If the restaurant utilizes deep frying vats, install a fire suppression system above these vats. This system will dump a chemical powder when a release is pushed to extinguish a grease or oil fire in the vats.
