What to Do When Colleagues Aren't Following RBS Guidelines

When it comes to Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) guidelines, we’ve all been there. Some things just can’t slide—especially when it involves the safety and well-being of patrons and staff in a bustling bar or restaurant. So, what should you do if you believe a colleague is not following RBS guidelines? You might be tempted to ignore it, thinking it’s minor. But let’s face it, that could create a slippery slope of irresponsibility.

Making the right call can feel daunting—after all, who wants to stir the pot? But here’s the thing: choosing to speak up about the situation and addressing it with management as appropriate is crucial. This doesn’t mean you have to be the office snitch. Instead, it’s about promoting a culture of responsibility where everyone wins.

Why Speaking Up Matters

It's not just about enforcing rules. Ensuring adherence to RBS guidelines can help prevent problems like over-service, which can lead to some serious consequences—think legal trouble and dangerous situations. You wouldn’t want to be the person who turned a blind eye and later found out things went south, would you?

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

Ignoring a colleague’s irresponsible behavior can lead to a toxic environment where risky actions become normalized. Wouldn’t it be great if every establishment operated under the assumption that safety and responsibility matter most? It’s essential for all staff members to feel empowered to take action!

On the flip side, confronting someone publicly? Not the best approach to take either. Not only could that create unnecessary conflict—it might also damage teamwork and camaraderie. So you're left wondering, what’s the right balance?

The Best Course of Action

Here’s how to address the situation: when you notice a breach of RBS guidelines, document your observations carefully. Is your colleague serving drinks too quickly? Are they ignoring signs of intoxication? Make a note of these instances, and when you’re ready, approach management with your concerns. This structured response allows management to handle things professionally, appropriately, and within the guidelines of the establishment.

After all, management has the authority to enforce policies and ensure that every staff member is playing by the rules. Reporting to local law enforcement might seem tempting, but trust me, that’s not necessary for internal matters that can—and should—be resolved at the establishment level.

In the end, the most responsible choice is to communicate with management. It’s comfortable to think about reprimanding a fellow employee, but we’re aiming for a proactive culture where everyone prioritizes safety. With the right actions, you can be part of a team that not only adheres to RBS guidelines but also fosters a more considerate and secure environment for everyone.

Wrap-Up

Navigating workplace dynamics can be tricky; always count on your intuition and knowledge of RBS guidelines. This isn’t just speculation—it’s about creating a space that promotes responsible service practices and ultimately protects your establishment. So when you think about that colleague who might not be following protocols, remember: speak up, address concerns, and together you can make a difference.