It's Good Business: Responsible Service and Safety for Licensed Establishments

It's Good Business is about changing views on alcohol service in the tourism/hospitality industry. Alcohol consumption, public attitudes, as well as laws and regulations have changed. Employees and employers who serve alcohol need to understand their role in response to this new business environment.

The It's Good Business responsible alcohol service program is mandatory in Manitoba for managers, owners, servers and security personnel working in licensed establishments. This program provides critical information on the effects of alcohol on people, and the techniques for preventing over-service. For anyone looking to get into the beverage service industry, the program provides an opportunity to increase your skills and improve your chances for employment within the hospitality industry.

The program consists of two sections: a program aimed at servers of alcohol and security personnel, and a program geared for those in owner/management positions. The Server Program combines information on the responsible service of alcohol to patrons with techniques for ensuring their safety during and after the visit to a licensed establishment. The Management Program covers the same information given to servers but includes information specifically designed for owners, managers and supervisors of licensed establishments.

Topics include:

• Liability
• Liquor laws
• Tips on recognizing intoxication
• Documentation of incidents
• How to implement a responsible alcohol strategy for your business
• Legal rights, responsibilities and realities
• Safety and awareness
• Non violent intervention and communication

All new licensees must complete the course prior to a liquor licence being issued. Managers must complete the course before being hired to manage a licensed facility, and servers/security personnel have 90 days from the date of hiring to successfully complete the course. Individuals can choose a self-study program or an on-line program, while organizations can arrange for in-house workshops or corporate packages.

To view the It's Good Business Program or for more information, costs, and registration forms, visit the Manitoba Tourism Education Council Web site at www.mtec.mb.ca or call toll-free at 1-800-820-6832, or (204) 957-7437 in Winnipeg.