Creating and managing a successful food or beverage business is a daunting task. It takes extreme attention to detail regarding equipment, staff training and safety, marketing, and the manufacturing process. There are customer expectations to meet, potential injuries to combat, and production issues to face.
Even with all the proper “ingredients” in place for success, many businesses are just one accident, lawsuit, or disgruntled employee away from closing up shop indefinitely. That is why running a strong business means preparing for the worst too. Businesses that are protected against such risks are more likely to succeed long term.
These risk management strategies for food and beverage producers can strongly reduce the likelihood of an accident or liability lawsuit that prevents your business from flourishing.
Employee Training. Your workforce isn’t just heartbeat of your business — they handle your day-to-day operations, which is why training them on equipment handling, safety procedures, customer service, and alcohol service (if applicable) on a regular basis is so crucial.
Supply Chain Management. Supply delivery can be interrupted by many factors, from inclement weather, infrastructure problems, price increase, damage to the supplier location, and damage to the supplied product. Loss of even one dependable supplier often leads to a significant los of income, and can affect your quality, consistence, and service as a food or beverage provider.
Facility Maintenance. Maintaining a clean facility reduces the chances of suffering property damage, contaminating your product, or your employees getting injured on the job.
Equipment Maintenance. You rely on your equipment, much of which is automated, to prepare, produce, process, and store your food or beverage product. Without proper maintenance, you’re putting both your business and customers at risk if something breaks and spoils your product. Be sure to regularly check your refrigeration units, heating equipment, and transportation units.
Cyber Security. Cybercrime is becoming increasingly common: nearly 50% of companies experience a data breach. Educate your employees about these threats and put in place protocols to help prevent attacks.
Health and Safety. According to the CDC, an estimated 48 million illnesses are borne by food in the U.S. each year, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Make sure you are complying fully with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards and know your local health and safety codes so that your facility or establishment isn’t caught off-guard during routine inspections. These usually include: employee hygiene, surfaces, food handling, storage, and preparation, equipment and supplies, and safety equipment.
Contact our insurance specialists at 845-986-1177 to learn more. We are your business, home, auto, and life insurance solutions provider, partner, and adviser, serving Warwick, Greenwood Lake, Florida, Goshen, Pine Island, Middletown, Chester, Monroe, Newburgh, Orange County, and the Hudson Valley and Tri-State Area.
Related:
Lettuce Talk Food and Beverage Production Safety
Managing Your Product Liability Risks
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Your Guide to Food Business Insurance
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