HEALTH & SAFETY
No plan is complete without regular training and drills.“ Staff should regularly practise emergency actions like evacuation, fire drills and medical incident simulations,” says Bartmann, noting that familiarity can make a critical difference.
Finally, a well-rounded plan includes recovery and continuity. After an incident, procedures should focus on assessing damage, reducing business interruption and resuming operations as quickly as possible.
Bartmann notes,“ Plans need periodic review to remain effective, especially with new risks, such as lithium-based device fires, becoming more common.”
Making fire drills meaningful
Fire drills can sometimes feel like a formality, but done right, they save lives. To make them effective without disrupting business, Bartmann suggests scheduling drills during quieter periods and notifying staff within a set date range, rather than a specific time. This balance encourages readiness without causing undue alarm.
Communication with guests is also key.“ Inform guests that drills are part of the venue’ s safety protocol,” he advises. If there are complaints, staff can confidently refer to company policy, reinforcing that safety is a top priority.
Bartmann recommends incorporating realistic scenarios using first-responder techniques to keep drills engaging.“ By incorporating realistic scenarios, including first-response fire drills, staff gain confidence while keeping guests safe and operations smooth.”
Inclusive evacuation plans
Evacuation planning requires special consideration in hospitality and F & B venues, where visitors may be unfamiliar with the layout or have specific needs. Bartmann highlights the importance of accessibility and support.“ Routes should be obstaclefree and wide enough for all guests to evacuate safely. In multi-storey venues, evacuation chairs should be installed to assist guests with mobility challenges.”
Dedicated support teams should be trained to help people with disabilities, children and non-local visitors. Keeping accurate records of who is on-site ensures that everyone is accounted for after an emergency. Finally, evacuation posters placed in visible locations remind guests what to do and where to go, turning awareness into preparedness.
Stocking and maintaining first aid kits
In hospitality, where accidents can range from kitchen burns to slips on wet floors, first-aid readiness is vital.
Bartmann explains,“ First-aid is an essential part of every emergency plan. We help venues integrate training and equipment to manage injuries effectively.”
Kits should always meet legal standards but also reflect the specific risks of the venue. A well-stocked kit includes basics like bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, safety pins, scissors and instant cold packs. Bartmann emphasises,“ Kits must be clearly labelled, easily accessible and securely placed in visible areas known to all employees.”
Regular maintenance is just as important. First-aid coordinators should check supplies monthly and encourage staff to take basic first aid training. This builds a culture of awareness and confidence across teams.
Training for calm and confidence
Ultimately, preparedness is only as strong as the people behind it. Bartmann stresses,“ Staff training is critical for emergency preparedness.” Employees who know what to do, how to act and when to respond are less likely to panic and more likely to lead guests safely.
Scenario-based drills help build that confidence, especially when guided by experienced first responders.“ Managers play a vital role in creating a culture of preparedness by recognising staff who take training seriously and encouraging ongoing learning,” explains Bartmann.
Final thoughts
Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation isn’ t. In hospitality and F & B, where guest experience is everything, safety and professionalism go hand in hand.
As Bartmann puts it,“ Readiness is the key to resilience. The more we prepare, the better we protect the people and places that matter most.” TT
2026 / TRADE & TASTE 127