Fresh Cup Magazine, providing specialty coffee and tea professionals with unique insight into the trends, ideas, products and people that shape their world.
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PROTECT YOUR NECK continued from page 55 backs from heavy lifting and falls on slippery floors. Burns from hot liquids are the most common injury in cof- feehouses, according to experienced operators. "We're dealing with near boiling water," explains Machado. During orientation, his new hires are trained on safely handling the equipment, and signs ("Caution: Hot Liquids") act as red flags to keep them aware while making coffee drinks. "Our emphasis is on safety first; that's our creed," he says. "Prior to speed and efficiency, I'd rather employees be safe." &5$6+ &2856( IN PLANNING "Being prepared is ultimately the best thing to do as a business," says Bob Peyton, general manager of retail operations for Portland-based Stumptown Coffee Roasters. "Make sure your staff is trained and your managers understand what to do in a time of crisis. We have a handbook. Even when you're just starting out, it's good to have one." Here are eight more tips: can help cover payroll, as well as help you pay vendors and purchase additional inventory in the event of disaster. . ises. Suggested items: nonperishable food (nutrition bars, jars of peanut butter, etc.), water, blankets, books, games, radio, flashlight, extra batteries, dust masks and whistles. . have a few ways to stay in touch with you in case phone lines are out. . least 50 miles away. . Repetitive stress injuries are also common, says Bob Peyton, general manager for retail operations at Portland's Stumptown Coffee Roasters. "We train new employees how to tamp, position themselves at the bar, how to stay flexible, and to be aware and attentive of their surroundings," he says. Food safety issues are common to all restaurants, even small shops serving only beverages and purchased baked goods. "We follow state food-handling guidelines and National Food Safety regulations on equipment and operations," says Machado. That means food is protected, covered or stored; floors are kept clean and clear of obstructions; and steps are painted so they are more visible to customers. FINANCIAL SHAMS, SCAMS AND THIEVES Any cash business must have a keen awareness of losses due to theft by employees, customers or criminals. Coastal Roasters 56 COFFEE ALMANAC 2012 . shutters. ings and hold safety drills. responders. . . . continued on page 58 Get to know nearby businesses and local police and fire-and-rescue first Line up alternate suppliers, shippers, utilities and storage facilities. Protect against structural damage by installing hurricane windows or Create a safety committee to formu- late a contingency plan, run meet- Store important records or computer back-ups online and/or off-site, at Set up a Facebook page and/or Twitter stream so that employees Stock an emergency bin in case folks have to "camp out" on your prem- Review your business insurance pol- icy. Business-interruption insurance