How to Prevent Common Injuries Behind the Bar
Whether it’s your full-time career, a weekend gig or a hosting hobby, getting behind the bar is gratifying for mixologists who create the drinks and the patrons who enjoy them.
With the reward also comes risks, including pain from prolonged standing, broken glasses or slipping in the dim lighting. These five tips can help you avoid the common injuries bartenders face.
Incorporate Ergonomic Setups
Many workers in strenuous occupations face the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, and ergonomic designs can help. Bending down, hunching your shoulders or cramping from your current tools are pain points ergonomic designs can address.
Look for specialized bar tools and adjust the bar’s height for a more comfortable posture. If you need a higher surface to avoid bending down, consider looking for extendable ones that fit your space.
Learn and Practice Safe Lifting and Carrying Techniques
When you’re lifting kegs, crates or glassware, posture and position are important. Hip strain can occur if the muscles overstretch or tear during strenuous activities. Be sure to lift from your legs rather than from your back and keep your hips square and balanced. Stretching and regular exercises to target these areas can help prevent prolonged issues and pain down the road.
Keep Floors Safe Against Slips, Trips and Falls
Wet floors from spills pose a significant hazard, especially in dimly lit areas or under strobing lights found in bars. Simple adjustments like installing LED strips under the bar to illuminate the floor and the bartending area can help brighten your workspace without disturbing the atmosphere.
Use Protection to Avoid Cuts and Burns
Bartenders are no strangers to broken glass, so bars should come equipped with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job. Gloves are especially recommended for handling any glass shards, preventing cuts when using a knife or even burns if handling hot beverages or fire. PPE can also include an apron and closed-toed shoes. All bartenders and staff should receive proper training on how to handle and dispose of hazardous materials safely.
Take Breaks and Stretch
Managing repetitive motion and fatigue is crucial to preventing job-related injuries. Bartenders should rotate tasks, incorporate breaks, stretch and identify any pain points as soon as possible. Strategies for breaks can include taking 30 seconds every 40 minutes of work or 5 minutes every hour. You can use this time to sit, stretch or move your body to offset the repetitive motion of your work.
Most Common Bar Injuries and Causes
Though many might not consider bartending a particularly dangerous occupation, anyone standing behind the bar serving others can experience these common hazards mixologists may face:
Circulatory issues: Standing for extended periods without rest can increase the risk of circulation problems like varicose veins and even cardiovascular disease.
Back pain and muscle sprains: Carrying heavy kegs and boxes without proper form may strain muscles and even lead to long-term issues and chronic pain.
Accidental cuts, burns and falls: Dark lighting and slippery surfaces are a dangerous combination, especially when paired with sharp tools and the potential to break glass.
Use the previous tips to make your bartending experience safer, allowing you to focus on serving your guests and keeping the night fun.
Shake and Strain Without the Pain
Bartenders and mixologists help make nights more fun, and the job should be enjoyable for everyone. Avoid common hazards and injuries by being proactive. By using ergonomic tools, protective gear, smart lighting and physical wellness techniques, your bartending can be safer and better than ever.
The Balanced Bartender with Mia Barnes
Crafting the perfect cocktail is an art, but true mastery lies in balance—not just of flavors, but of creativity, precision, and passion. In a profession where long hours and high-energy are the norm, maintaining balance both behind the bar and in life is essential. The Balanced Bartender will help guide bartenders toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Stay in tune with your mind, body, and spirit.
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