Speaking Up for Safety During Hospitality Events
In the hospitality industry, Autumn event season brings a steady stream of weddings, conferences, festivals, and corporate gatherings. For many young workers, these events provide an excellent opportunity to gain experience in hospitality and customer service. They can also introduce new workplace hazards, especially when employees are working in unfamiliar surroundings or under tight timelines.
Young workers face a higher workplace injury rate compared to other employees, particularly during their first year on the job. While lifting injuries, slips and falls, and equipment-related incidents are common in banquet and catering operations, many of these incidents can be prevented when workers feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and looking out for one another.
Safety begins before the work starts. Employees should understand their role and responsibilities, know who to contact with safety concerns, and receive the training on skills and equipment needed to perform their work safely. When expectations are clearly defined, workers are better prepared to recognize hazards and make informed decisions throughout their shift.
Let's explore some examples.
Lifting and Moving: Event staff are often responsible for transporting tables, chairs, beverage cases, and other materials throughout a venue. If an item is too heavy or awkward to handle safely, asking for assistance can help prevent strains and sprains. Taking an extra moment and being empowered to ask for help is far better than risking an injury while trying to handle the task alone.
Slips, Trips, and Falls: Event spaces are constantly changing as vendors set up displays, guests arrive, and staff move equipment. Extension cords, boxes, decorations, and spills can create hazards for both workers and attendees. Slips, trips, and falls are still one of the leading causes of workplace injuries that result in days away from work (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Encouraging employees to recognize and report these hazards promptly helps ensure they are addressed before someone gets hurt.
Equipment Hazards: Young employees should never assume they know how to operate unfamiliar equipment. Supervisors and experienced coworkers can often identify risks that a newer employee may not recognize, but safety around equipment also depends on workers being willing to ask questions. Open communication allows workers to request training, seek clarification, and report damage that can prevent serious incidents.
Fatigue: During busy events, staying connected with team members can help manage fatigue and workload. Long shifts and demanding schedules can make it harder to stay focused. Checking in with coworkers, lending a hand when needed, and speaking up when a task becomes overwhelming can help prevent mistakes before they lead to injuries.
Successful events rely on strong teamwork, and strong teamwork starts with employees who are willing to speak up. Whether reporting a spill, asking for help with a heavy load, seeking guidance on unfamiliar equipment, or raising a safety concern, simple conversations can help prevent injuries. For young workers entering the hospitality industry, one of the most valuable safety habits they can develop is the confidence to ask questions and speak up when something does not seem right. This simple action helps protect coworkers, guests, and themselves, helping ensure every event is remembered for its success rather than a preventable injury.
