Servsafe Classes For Hospitality Employees

By Jerri Perry


Servsafe classes consist of training for management and employees who work around food and with alcoholic beverages. They are sponsored by the National Restaurant Association in an effort to educate restaurant and other food service employees and management on the importance of sanitary and safe workplace practices.

The ability to train staff on regulations and correct procedures is vital to a successful management career. Handling food safely and learning sanitation basics is critical for line employees to assist the business in becoming a successful, reputable and profitable restaurant operation. Becoming familiar with the dangers of alcohol over consumption and knowledge of the proactive steps you can take to protect the business, the employees and the management staff as well as the customer is the basis for alcohol training.

Knowing which course to take is the first step in your education. If you are an owner, a manager or supervisor, management training is perfect for your educational needs. You will learn how to train employees on proper sanitation and cleaning methods, the dangers of food borne illnesses, temperature controls and necessary equipment, personal hygiene for staff members, and pertinent food safety regulations.

A food handler's certification is coursework for line employees to teach them the basics of food safety, the dangers of cross contamination, and cleaning and sanitation methodology. Dealing with allergens is also covered and is becoming more and more important in serving guests who may have reactions to food that is served if safety precautions are not taken.

Alcohol training teaches staff how to react when customers and guests appear to have been over served. It also trains them to be proactive in ensuring that individuals on the property are safe and protected from the dangers of alcohol. The specifics of checking identification, how to determine the intoxication levels of guests, and knowledge of the law and pertinent responsibility is also stressed.

These courses are available online for those who do not have access to or the time to attend regular training that may be offered in cities. Restaurant supply outlets will often offer this type of training at their venues for a minimal charge. Many employers require certification and will sometimes cover the costs of the classes.

Tests are issued at the end of each class to be sure that all students have read and absorbed the training presented. A passing grade is required to receive the certification. Your employer may wish to keep a copy of it on file to show that you are trained to handle food or alcohol in a safe and professional manner.

Servsafe classes are essential to food service professionals everywhere. Whether you are in management, work the front kitchen line, wait tables or serve drinks from behind a bar, there is a course specifically for you. You can use this education to further yourself in your career - this certification on your resume shows that you really care about the business you work for and the customers you serve.




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