Did you know that potential hazards and dangers lurk at every valet job site, including yours? While they may not seem obvious, part of becoming an expert valet employee is being able to recognize these potential hazards and taking proactive preventative steps to deal with them. Some of the most common hazards include wet or slippery surface areas, dark or poorly lit areas, and unsecured valet equipment. It’s easy to overlook these types of situations if you are not actually looking for them in the first place, but remember it is every employees duty and responsibility to be on the lookout for these types of situations. An alert and aware valet taking preventative measures can actually help avoid a potential serious injury, not to mention a costly lawsuit for us and our clients. Valets who are proactive about looking for safety issues at their sites are not only doing their jobs, they are also helping us with our Mission of Exceeding every customers expectations.
A recent situation at one of our accounts highlights the importance of preventative safety and the costs of not doing anything about it. A customer who dined at one of our restaurant accounts was leaving the restaurant and walked to the parking lot where our valet was on duty. Although the customer did not valet park, she did stop to say hello to the valet. While doing so, she failed to see a small step down into the parking lot and tripped face first, causing a significant facial/dental injury. There were two major contributing factors to this incident: 1) the lip of the curb she couldnt see was at one time painted yellow, but over time had become faded to completely black (matching the color of the parking lot) due to repetitive foot traffic. 2) the area was poorly lit, thereby making it even more difficult to see.
Fortunately, an alert and proactive Signature Parking valet had notified the restaurant on two previous occasions about the dangers of the invisible curb step – noting that people always trip on that curb. Unfortunately, the restaurant did not take any corrective action, and a customer subsequently became injured from slipping off the curb. The proactive steps our valet took to notify the client of the safety issue were ultimately helpful in excusing our company of any wrongdoing, and saved us from potentially more expensive civil damages.
Here are some of the most common Safety Issues to be on the look out for:
Dangerous Steps - Worn, unmarked curbs, steps and stairs. Be on the lookout for any steps where customers may be difficult to notice or navigate. Preventative measures should be implemented such as bright paint, Grip Tape or other measures which can reduce the likelihood of a trip and fall.
Wet or Uneven pavement - Wet pavement can easily cause someone to slip and fall. Place traffic cones or delineation over the area and tell people to avoid walking in the area. Do the same for any pot holes or uneven areas that are prone to tripping. Alert the client and inform them of the situation.
Poor Lighting - Dark areas are a safety hazaard because they make it easy for someone to slip and fall and they also present a prime opportunity for criminal behavior such as burglary and assault. Take note of any areas at your location which are poorly lit and bring it to the attention of management.
Unsecured Equipment – Unsecured valet equipment can pose a significant safety hazard, especially on windy, stormy days. Be sure your valet podium wheel locks are secure. Signs must be firmly weighted and stable. If there is any significant wind, you may pull the sign stand away from any people or property. Do the same with podiums and umbrellas. Don’t risk having something blow over and cause damage or injure someone. If your equipment needs more weight, locks, etc. alert your supervisor.
Cash Handling - Always keep cash in a safe locking drawer. Do not become a target for theft by being careless with your cash handling.
If you notice an unsafe situation – take immediate proactive steps including:
1. If possible, fix the unsafe situation
2. Alert the Client and your direct Supervisor
3. Complete a Safety Report Form available at every account and submit this to your supervisor within 24 hours.
With your help, we can make our workplace a safe environment and protect the interested of ourselves, our clients and our customers.
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