The minute the UK’s unpredictable weather hits 15 degrees or more, you can bet your customers will flock to your beer garden! Britain is renowned for its love of outdoor socialising, especially at the pub. While drinking in the open air brings a great atmosphere, there are also risks involved when mixing sun, alcohol, and an outdoor setting.
To keep things fun and safe, it’s essential to implement some precautionary steps. At Clear Business, we have options designed to protect your pub and keep your peace of mind. Take a look at our pub insurance page to learn how to safeguard your establishment effectively.
Bringing in plastic cups as evening falls is a small adjustment that can greatly improve safety. Not only will it help reduce the likelihood of theft (where DO all those fancy pint glasses go?), but it also lowers the risk of broken glass injuries. Alcohol combined with warm weather can lead to quick dehydration, which may make some patrons more unsteady than usual. To keep things accident-free, instruct your team to bring out plastic cups for patrons as the night wears on. Some customers might be resistant, but remind them it’s for their safety – nobody wants to end a night out with an unexpected trip to A&E!
Having security personnel on hand, especially during busier times or special events, is a proactive step for your peace of mind. If scuffles break out, underage drinking is attempted, or antisocial behaviour arises, security staff can swiftly address these issues. This allows your bar staff to stay focused and ensures the atmosphere remains safe for everyone. For smaller venues, assigning the bar manager or a senior staff member to check in regularly on the premises can also be an effective approach.
When the bar is crowded, especially around match days, it’s challenging to monitor who is receiving each drink. This is especially the case with groups seated at the back of a packed beer garden. To mitigate this, always use Challenge 21 or Challenge 25 policies and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Make sure that the cash payer is clear on who will be drinking. Although it may feel awkward, it’s your license on the line, and following these checks can protect your business from potential penalties.
Even if last year’s garden furniture was in great shape, it’s vital to check it each season. Damage from harsh weather or general wear and tear can create hazards. Accidents in pub gardens often stem from slips, trips, or unstable furniture, so be thorough with your inspections. Key checks include:
- Ensuring umbrellas are properly secured in the ground.
-Inspecting outdoor fixtures and fittings.
-Ensuring the decking or patio isn’t slippery after rainfall.
It might sound straightforward, but staying compliant with local licensing laws is crucial in avoiding claims in the hospitality sector. Ensure your opening hours align with your license, and be considerate of noise levels, especially if your establishment is near residential areas. Not following these rules could affect how a potential claim is viewed, so keeping in line with the law is essential.
If you’re planning an event and bringing in external vendors—like bouncy castles, BBQ caterers, or fireworks—be sure to check their licenses. This extra step ensures that, if something goes wrong, both your pub and your vendor are covered. Ask vendors to provide insurance documents and confirm the liability agreements before the event.
Running a pub comes with various risks, from accidental damage to customer claims. Without the right public house insurance, you could face significant financial losses. Having comprehensive business insurance for a pub may protect your business from legal costs, property damage, or stock loss. Compare pub insurance policies today!
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*The price is for up to £2 million of public liability insurance – 10% of customers paid £4.74 or less annually between 1st Jan - 31st May 2024. Equivalent to £56.82 a year (and excludes the extra costs for paying monthly). If you complete a quote, more types of cover will be available and these all have additional costs.
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