Product Overview

This Cafe Safety SWMS is a site-ready Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify hazards, implement controls, and protect workers involved in café and barista operations while maintaining WHS compliance. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Cafe Safety SWMS activities, from barista workflows to the safe operation of automated coffee machines and general café tasks.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Barista workstation set-up, workflow design, and housekeeping to minimise slips, trips, and ergonomic risks
• Operation of automated coffee machines, including start-up, shut-down, and emergency stop procedures
• Safe use of espresso machines, steam wands, and hot water outlets to control burn and scald hazards
• Handling, grinding, and dosing coffee beans with controls for noise, dust, and manual handling
• Use and maintenance of milk jugs, pitchers, and frothing equipment, including safe steam purging practices
• Safe handling of hot beverages, cups, and take-away orders to prevent spills and customer-facing incidents
• Cleaning and descaling of coffee machines and grinders, including chemical safety and lock-out where required
• Management of electrical leads, power points, and small appliances in wet areas to prevent electric shock
• Manual handling of stock, including lifting and storing coffee bags, milk crates, and consumables
• Safe operation of dishwashers, glasswashers, and sinks in the café environment
• Housekeeping and floor management, including spill response and mat placement to reduce slip hazards
• General café safety practices, including incident reporting, emergency procedures, and first aid access

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for café owners, baristas, hospitality workers, and site supervisors responsible for managing safety in coffee shops, kiosks, and food service venues.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls in café operations
• Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – for safe layout, amenities, and environmental conditions in cafés
• Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – for controlling risks associated with lifting, carrying, and repetitive barista tasks
• Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces – where step-stools, small ladders, or elevated storage are used in the café
• AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – for testing and tagging café electrical appliances and coffee machines