In the restaurant world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, from dinner rushes and staffing challenges to keeping up with supply costs. But one thing that’s often overlooked until it becomes a problem is workplace safety and health violations. These aren’t just about passing inspections or avoiding fines, but can drive up your insurance rates and make your business look riskier to providers. Luckily, a little awareness goes a long way.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common violations that can quietly cost you big time in terms of restaurant insurance rates.
1. Food Storage & Temperature Issues
It’s simple: keep the cold stuff cold and the hot stuff hot. However, all it takes is one fridge that isn’t maintaining the correct temperature or one batch of chicken stored above the lettuce to invite a violation and a claim.
Why it matters: If someone gets sick and it’s traced back to your kitchen, it’s not just a bad review, which could lead to a liability claim and higher premiums.
Pro tip: Invest in temperature logs or automatic alerts, and make food safety training a regular part of your routine.
2. Poor Cleaning & Sanitation Habits
Health inspectors are examining more than just whether your establishment appears clean. Greasy vents, dirty cutting boards, or a missing handwashing sign can all ding you.
Why it matters: Unclean conditions raise red flags for both inspectors and insurers. If it appears that safety isn’t a priority, your rates may reflect this.
Pro tip: Assign daily and weekly cleaning checklists to ensure tasks are completed efficiently.
3. Blocked Fire Exits & Emergency Hazards
During service, it’s tempting to store trays or supplies wherever there’s space, but blocking emergency exits or tampering with smoke detectors is a major no-go for obvious reasons.
Why it matters: Fire code violations increase your liability risk. If there’s ever an emergency, your policy may not fully protect you if safety basics aren’t followed.
Pro tip: Keep exits clear and conduct regular checks to ensure alarms, lights, and extinguishers are up to code.
4. Slippery Floors & Trip Hazards
One spilled drink or loose tile can turn into a workers’ comp claim or a lawsuit from a customer. These are some of the most common (and preventable) accidents in the industry.
Why it matters: Frequent slip-and-fall incidents are a red flag to insurers. They’ll assume it’s just a matter of time before the next one happens.
Pro tip: Use non-slip mats, clean spills promptly, and include walk-throughs as part of your closing checklist.
5. Equipment That’s On Its Last Leg
If your fryer’s sparking or your walk-in’s leaking, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a liability. Malfunctioning equipment is a leading cause of kitchen fires and food spoilage.
Why it matters: Neglected maintenance tells insurers you’re not managing risk, and your policy pricing might reflect that.
Pro tip: Schedule preventative maintenance and keep documentation. It also helps when filing claims.
6. Lack of Staff Training
If your team isn’t trained in food safety, first aid, or even proper lifting techniques, you’re inviting trouble. Training isn’t just a box to check; it protects your people and your business.
Why it matters: A single injury or food safety mistake can lead to a claim. Too many claims? That means higher premiums.
Pro tip: Build training into onboarding and conduct quarterly refreshers. You’ll sleep better at night, we promise.
Insurance Companies Are Paying Attention
When it’s time to renew your restaurant business insurance policy or file a claim, insurers often look at your risk profile, and that includes your track record with health and safety.
Too many violations or a history of preventable claims could mean the following:
- Higher premiums
- Policy exclusions
- More frequent inspections
- Or even dropped coverage
Protect Your Business the Smart Way with Comprehensive Restaurant Insurance Coverage from Restaurant Pro Insurance
At Restaurant Pro Insurance, we don’t just sell policies. We help restaurant owners understand risk and protect what they’ve worked hard to build. Whether you’re just opening your doors or scaling up, we’ll ensure your coverage aligns with the day-to-day reality of your food and beverage business.
Do you need a second opinion on your current policy, or would you like help reducing your risk? Reach out today. From restaurant liability insurance to liquor liability and workers’ compensation, we’re here to help you protect what you’ve built, with coverage that fits your restaurant industry business, your budget, and your reality.