As one of London’s foremost restaurant cleaning companies, we have worked with commercial kitchens all over the capital and across the rest of the UK. One of the more common reasons for a restaurant to get sued is that a customer has come down with a bout of food poisoning after eating there.
While this in itself will come as no surprise, realising that your insurance policy might not cover cases of food poisoning at all certainly can.
What kind of insurance does my restaurant need?
While there is rarely such a thing a “too much cover” there is a bare minimum that you should have in place.
1. Employer's Liability Insurance
This is a legal requirement for any establishment employing paid members of staff. It covers your costs should a staff member sue for illness or injury incurred as part of their job.
2. Public Liability Insurance
Another legal requirement, this is the base level of cover required by any business, including restaurants. It covers actions brought by a customer or other member of the public who is injured, killed, or taken in either on your premises or as a consequence of your work practises.
3. Product Liability Insurance
This is the key. Whilst a generous reading of your public liability may lead you to believe it covers things like food poisoning, your insurance company may disagree in the event of any claim. Product Liability Insurance, on the other hand, specifically relates to the good you sell for consumption.
How can I minimise the risk of litigation for food poisoning?
The easiest and most efficient way is to ensure your staff are fully-trained to comply with the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013. Much of this is common sense, such as regular deep cleaning of surfaces, tools, and equipment, the correct storing of raw and cooked meats, storage and refrigeration guidelines, and so on. While no commercial kitchen is ever immune to a food poisoning claim, the correct insurance and adherence to these guidelines greatly reduce your chances of lost.
Here at Kitchen & Duct Cleaning, we provide rigorous restaurant cleaning service throughout the UK, perhaps the most effective way of mitigating against food poisoning in your establishment. For more information on what we can do for you, or to receive a free, no-obligation quote, give us a call today on 0208 245 8850.
