The drive-thru area of a restaurant gives workers the opportunity for direct contact with the public. However, they may also be exposed to the following hazards:
Restaurant workers may be exposed to noise, especially while working in the drive-thru area. Workers often wear headsets to hear orders when working at drive-up windows and they may be exposed to loud headset background noise while wearing headsets.
Possible Solutions
There are several things workers can do help reduce the level of noise in a drive-thru. Here are a few suggestions:
Employers can implement safe work practices to help prevent noise exposure, such as:
1. How can employers reduce exposure to loud noises in the drive-thru area?
a. Hire younger workers for work in the drive-thru areaEmployees can be exposed to sprains and strains from tasks that require repetitive motions, such as excessive reaching, lifting, and leaning out of drive-thru windows to hand customers their orders.
Possible Solutions
Here are some ways to help decrease the likelihood of sprains and strains:
Employers can do the following safe work practices to help prevent injuries:
2. How can employers reduce sprains and strains in the drive-thru area?
a. Hire more workersWorkplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can range from threats, and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicides from behaviors either initiated by customers, other employees, and employers.
Many workplaces, like restaurants, can be a target for workplace violence because of the presence of cash, late work hours, and contact with the public. In addition, sometimes the drive-thru is located in a structure removed from the main restaurant, isolating workers from the support of fellow workers.
Possible Solutions
Here are some possible solutions to help decrease the likelihood of workplace violence in a restaurant:
There are several safe work practices your employer can do to protect you. Here are a few things:
3. What is the best location for drive-thru windows to help avoid workplace violence?
a. In another parking lotEmployees can be exposed to prolonged standing while working the drive-thru window. This can cause stress and strain to the workers’ back and legs.
Possible Solutions
To relieve stress and strain to workers’ backs and legs, try the following things:
Employers should consider implementing recommended safe work practices, including:
4. Which of the following is a good safe work practice for prolonged standing at drive-thru windows?
a. Provide anti-fatigue matsEmployees may be exposed to high levels of car exhaust in a drive-thru. Automobile exhaust contains harmful pollutants, mainly carbon monoxide which decreases the ability of the blood to absorb oxygen in the lungs. Inhaling high levels and concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause the following symptoms:
Possible Solutions
Here is a possible solution to decrease the exposure to car exhaust:
Employers should consider implementing safe work practices, including:
5. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause _____.
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