This service evaluates the adequacy of an alcohol-serving establishment’s security measures and its protocols for responding to, mitigating, and documenting incidents that occur on its premises. While often distinct from the direct act of serving alcohol, inadequate security or poor incident response can be a direct contributor to injuries and liability, especially when combined with patron intoxication.
With over 35 years of experience in managing high-volume hospitality and entertainment venues, I bring a unique, practical perspective to premises security and incident response. As “The Dram Shop Expert,” I understand that a safe environment is integral to responsible alcohol service. My review goes beyond a checklist; I assess the practical effectiveness of security measures and staff’s ability to respond to dynamic situations, often exacerbated by intoxicated patrons.
Description: I evaluate the sufficiency and quality of an establishment’s security staffing levels (e.g., bouncers, crowd control, internal security teams) relative to its capacity, clientele, and operational hours. This includes reviewing their training on de-escalation techniques, physical intervention protocols, first aid/CPR, responsible alcohol service support, and compliance with local security regulations. I assess if security personnel are merely “door checkers” or actively trained to manage a safe environment.
Why it’s crucial: The presence of adequately trained and staffed security is paramount for preventing and managing conflicts, especially those fueled by alcohol.
Description: I analyze the effectiveness and proper use of surveillance technology, including CCTV camera placement, coverage areas, recording quality, data retention policies, and accessibility of footage. This also includes assessing other security technologies like access control systems or metal detectors, if applicable.
Why it’s crucial: Surveillance footage often provides critical evidence in incident reconstruction. Poorly maintained or improperly utilized systems can hide vital information or expose negligence.
Description: I review an establishment’s protocols for documenting incidents (e.g., fights, falls, medical emergencies, patron ejection, property damage). This includes assessing the completeness, accuracy, timeliness, and accessibility of incident reports, witness statements, and any related internal communications.
Why it’s crucial: Thorough and accurate incident documentation is vital for legal defense or prosecution. Gaps or inconsistencies can indicate a failure in responsible management and hinder legal proceedings.
Description: For venues with significant foot traffic or large capacities, I evaluate strategies for crowd management, including entry/exit procedures, designated pathways, barrier placement, and staff deployment to prevent bottlenecks, stampedes, or other hazards. This also includes assessing the establishment’s capacity limits and adherence to fire and safety codes.
Why it’s crucial: Poor crowd management can directly lead to injuries and altercations, particularly when combined with the disinhibiting effects of alcohol.
Description: I examine how well an establishment’s staff (including but not limited to security) are trained to identify potential threats, recognize escalating situations, and implement effective de-escalation techniques before conflicts erupt or escalate to physical altercations. This includes policies on patron ejection and involving law enforcement.
Why it’s crucial: Proactive threat assessment and effective de-escalation are key to preventing violence and serious injuries. Failures here often directly precede significant incidents.
My extensive background in managing hospitality operations means I understand the practicalities and challenges of maintaining a safe environment while serving alcohol. I don’t just assess policies; I evaluate how these policies translate into real-world effectiveness. I can identify systemic weaknesses in security, pinpoint failures in incident response, and articulate how these factors contribute to negligence and liability, particularly when combined with the effects of alcohol on patrons. My testimony provides crucial context that connects security practices directly to the safety of patrons and the establishment’s overall legal exposure.
