Have a Safe Delivery

Food deliveries are a normal part of the duties of a fast food restaurant worker. And with the increasing request for fresher foods from all restaurants, these deliveries are increasing so the exposure is increasing as well. Take some time to review the following measures with your employees:

1. UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE

: to hasten the process an employee might be tempted to assist with removing the goods from the truck, helping the truck park, or opening the truck door. This should be strongly discouraged. In addition, they should be informed to steer clear of the truck, doors, and pathway of the delivery employee. If a door needs to be held open, a door stop should be used as opposed to standing there and holding the door. Owner/Operators with multiple location may have occasion where it is not a third party making the delivery. Even in these instances, the employee specifically trained to drive and unload the truck still should be the main employee managing parking the truck and managing doors/lifts etc. and the person receiving the delivery should steer clear through that process.

1. PREPARE THE SPACE: Employees should have in mind where they want the delivery to be placed and that space should be cleared in advance of arrival. Many employees experience strains as they are hastily making a space for delivery. Although delivery times can vary widely, most delivery days are known well in advance and can be planned for.

2. USE GOOD LIFTING TECHNIQUE EVEN FOR LIGHT OBJECTS: It is not uncommon for a strain injury to come from trying to catch an item being handled from falling. If you are using good lifting technique, you are more likely to also be in a better ergonomic position to catch an item should this occur. So, good lifting technique is important at all times. For a reminder of good lifting techniques see our next article in August!