Roles & Responsibilities of Servers Flashcards

What is a 'reasonable person' standard in the context of responsible alcohol service?

Answer: Taking the actions that a reasonable, trained server would take under the same circumstances

The 'reasonable person' standard asks: would a trained, responsible server have recognized the signs and taken appropriate action? This is the standard used in legal proceedings to evaluate server conduct.

A server suspects a patron is buying alcohol for a minor outside the venue. What should they do?

Answer: Refuse the sale and notify management — facilitating purchase for minors is illegal

If a server has reasonable grounds to believe alcohol will be provided to a minor, they should refuse the sale. 'Secondary supply' to minors is illegal and the server/establishment could be liable.

What ongoing training should servers receive beyond initial Smart Serve certification?

Answer: Regular refresher training on responsible service, de-escalation, new regulations, and venue-specific policies

Initial certification is the minimum. Ongoing training keeps knowledge current, reinforces best practices, covers new regulations, and addresses venue-specific scenarios and policies.

A delivery driver for a licensed establishment delivers alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person at their door. Are they liable?

Answer: Yes — delivery personnel have the same obligation not to deliver alcohol to intoxicated persons

In Ontario, anyone who sells, serves, or delivers alcohol has responsible service obligations. Delivery drivers must assess the recipient and refuse delivery if they show signs of intoxication.

What should a server do at the beginning of their shift regarding alcohol service?

Answer: Familiarize themselves with any incidents from previous shifts, check their section for hazards, and review any special event details

Beginning-of-shift preparation should include reviewing any carryover information from the previous shift (cut-off patrons, incidents), checking the environment, and understanding any special circumstances.

Can a server refuse service to someone who is not yet intoxicated?

Answer: Yes — servers can refuse service for valid reasons like disruptive behavior, dress code, or capacity limits

While intoxication and age are the most common legal grounds for refusal, servers and establishments can also refuse service for other valid reasons including disruptive behavior, safety concerns, and house policies.