Specific requirements in the Catering skill area

This article describes specific requirements that may apply to industry placements in this skill area.

When you get to the detailed preparations for industry placements, you should consider which requirements apply to you with the college, school or other type of provider you are working. You should talk to them about any specific compliance obligations on your business.

Risk assessment

The catering environment has numerous pieces of dangerous equipment which will require specific training to ensure safety. There will need to be a role-specific risk assessment which your school or college will help you with.

This will consider normal workplace risks (for example those found in the kitchen) and emphasise what needs to be covered in induction training.

COSHH assessment and training

There will need to be a COSHH assessment in relation to hazardous materials that a student might come into contact with during their industry placement.

You must also provide training on handling hazardous substances (for example on using oven cleaning products).

Food hygiene

Students will need to undertake the necessary food hygiene training before handling food (preferably at level 2), but this will more than likely have been done before the industry placement, so check with the school or college you are working with.

Age

Consideration needs to be given to the fact that students are likely to be under 18, so be aware of what activities are permitted under the Licencing Act 2003. Your school or college will be able to provide more advice on this.

Working hours and times

Remember that students under the age of 18 should not work more than 8 hours a day or later than 10pm, irrespective of whether they are on an unpaid industry placement.

Allergens

Placement students must understand the importance of applying prescribed processes and procedures around food allergies and intolerances to safeguard customers. You will need to train your placement student on your allergen policies and procedures.

The legal compliance article gives you more general information about your main responsibilities and provides links to detailed guidance and resources.

The content in this resource is for information only and does not constitute advice. Suggestions or considerations are offered for you to take into account. It’s your responsibility, supported by your college or school, to comply with any legal duties that you might have.

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