First Aid Basics Every Food And Beverage Worker Should Know

Working in the food and beverage (F&B) industry means mastering the art of preparing and serving food, but it goes beyond just cooking and plating. From handling sharp knives to dealing with hot stoves and heavy kitchen equipment, the fast-paced environment of a restaurant or cafe comes with its risks. Knowing how to cook well is important, but knowing how to handle emergencies is just as crucial. 

Accidents can happen in any kitchen – whether it’s a deep cut from a knife, a burn from hot oil, or someone choking on food. This is why every F&B worker should have basic first aid knowledge. Reacting quickly and correctly in these situations can prevent minor incidents from becoming major medical emergencies. Here are some essential first aid basics every F&B worker should know.

 

1. Treating cuts and lacerations

Knife injuries are one of the most common kitchen accidents. If a cut occurs, follow these steps: 

- Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding.

- Rinse the wound under cool running water to remove debris.

- Disinfect and cover with a sterile bandage. 

- Monitor for signs of infection, such as swelling or redness. 

For deep cuts where the bleeding does not stop after applying pressure, seek medical attention immediately.

 

2. Handling burns and scalds

Hot oil, boiling water, and heated kitchen equipment pose burn risks. If someone suffers a burn:

- Cool the burn by running it under cool (not ice-cold) water for at least 10 minutes. 

- Do not apply butter or ointments, as they can trap heat. 

- Cover with a clean, non-stick bandage to prevent infection. 

- Seek medical help if the burn is severe, covers a large area, or involves the face or joints.

 

3. Responding to choking 

Choking can happen when food gets lodged in the throat, making it difficult to breathe. If a colleague or customer is choking: 

- Encourage them to cough forcefully to dislodge the object.

- Perform the Heimlich manoeuvre by standing behind the person, placing your fists above their navel, and giving quick, inward, and upward thrusts.

- Call for emergency help if they lose consciousness and begin CPR if necessary.

 

4. Dealing with slips, trips, and falls

Wet floors, spilled ingredients, and crowded spaces increase the risk of falls in the kitchen. 

- Assist the injured person to a safe position.

- Check for injuries, particularly head trauma or broken bones. 

- Apply ice to reduce swelling for minor injuries.

- Seek medical attention for severe pain, swelling, or loss of mobility.

 

5. Managing allergic reactions

F&B workers should be aware of food allergies and know how to respond in case of an allergic reaction. 

- Recognise symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling, or rashes.

- Avoid cross-contamination when preparing food for allergy-prone customers.

- Administer an EpiPen if available and necessary.

- Call for medical assistance immediately.

 

6. First aid for eye injuries

Splashes from hot oil, chemicals, or spices can cause serious eye injuries. 

- Flush the eye with clean water for at least 15 minutes.

- Do not rub the eye, as this can cause further irritation.

- Seek medical help if pain, redness, or vision issues persist.

 

7. Recognising signs of heat exhaustion

Working in a hot kitchen for long hours can lead to heat exhaustion, which, if left untreated, can progress to heatstroke.

- Watch for symptoms like dizziness, heavy sweating, nausea, and muscle cramps.

- Move the affected person to a cooler area and give them water.

- Encourage rest and monitor their condition.

- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

 

Why first aid knowledge is essential for F&B workers

Being prepared with first aid skills helps create a safer workplace. It ensures that small injuries don’t escalate into bigger problems and keeps both staff and customers protected. Employers can also train staff effectively in food safety best practices to minimise hazards and create a safer environment.

While knowing how to treat injuries is important, preventing them is even better. Wearing protective gear, following safety protocols, and staying alert in the kitchen can go a long way in avoiding accidents. 

If you work in an SFA-licensed establishment and want to enhance your food safety and emergency response skills, consider taking a Food Safety Course Level 1 in Singapore, which is predominantly for entering this industry. This course covers essential food handling practices to keep both workers and customers safe.

 

Conclusion 

Emergencies can happen in any F&B setting, but being prepared makes all the difference. Understanding first aid basics helps prevent minor incidents from turning into major emergencies.

For those looking to strengthen their food safety knowledge, WFA offers the Food Safety Course Level 1 for individuals in SFA-licensed establishments. Equip yourself with the skills needed to create a safer workplace today!