WorkSafe Bulletin

Restaurant host, server, or valet

As a host, server, or valet in the restaurant industry, choosing the right footwear and clothing
can help keep you comfortable and protect you from slips and falls, burns and scalds, and sprains
and strains.

How can you protect yourself?

Foot protection
The footwear you wear must be appropriate for
the type of work you do and be maintained in
good condition.
Dry cloths can protect
• To prevent slips, trips, and falls on floors slick your hands from burns.
with food, water, grease, or oil, wear footwear
with slip-resistant soles.
• Low heels may be more comfortable and are
safer for standing, walking or climbing stairs
and ramps.
• To prevent burns and scalds from hot spilled
Soles with a
liquids, which can burn through canvas and melt well-defined pattern
artificial materials such as nylon or polyester into provide a better grip.
your skin, choose footwear with a closed toe
and a solid leather upper without a pattern
of holes.
• If you lift, carry, push, or pull heavy objects
such as large food containers, you must wear
approved slip-resistant safety footwear with
toe protection.

Hand protection
When handling hot dishes, plates, or trays,
use hand protection such as dry cloths. Protect yourself from injury by using hand protection when
handling hot dishes and wearing shoes with slip-resistant soles.

WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line: 604.276.3100

WS 2017-07 page 1 of 2
or toll-free 1.888.621.SAFE (7233)
Protective clothing
If you work outside, for example serving on
an outdoor patio or as a valet, wear appropriate
clothing and footwear for the conditions.
Before using a hazardous product such as a
cleaning agent, you must be trained to use it safely
and wear the necessary PPE. Check the material
safety data sheet (MSDS) and the label on the
container to see what PPE is required, such as
gloves appropriate for the chemical.

For more information see the WorkSafeBC publication Health and Safety for Hospitality
Small Business.

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