Food & Beverage
Cafe & Coffee Shop Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for cafe and coffee shop operations.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Essential guidance for cafe safety
Cafes and coffee shops combine hot beverage preparation with food service in customer-facing environments. Managing espresso machine risks, hot drink spills, and food allergens requires careful attention to both staff and customer safety.
This guide covers key hazards including steam burns, hot drink handling, food allergens in pastries, and managing busy peak periods safely.
Food Safety
Food Safety
Activity Benefits
Why cafes matter
Third Space
Provides a relaxed third space for informal meetings, study, and remote work.
Local Economy
Strengthens local micro-economies by showcasing small-batch coffee and baked goods.
Barista Skills
Creates barista and customer-service skill development opportunities.
Street Safety
Improves street activation and perceived safety through regular daytime activity.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Hot Drinks & SteamHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Burns, scalds, steam injuries from espresso machines and hot beverages.
Control Measures
- Barista training on equipment
- Sleeve and lid protocols
- Steam wand procedures
- Burns first aid kit
Food AllergensHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Allergic reactions from cakes, pastries, and milk alternatives.
Control Measures
- Allergen menu available
- Staff allergen training
- Separate milk jugs
- Clear labelling on display
Slips from SpillsMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Slips, trips, falls from spilled drinks and wet floors.
Control Measures
- Immediate spill response
- Non-slip flooring
- Wet floor signs available
- Regular floor checks
Lone WorkingMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Assault, robbery, stress when working alone during quiet periods.
Control Measures
- Check-in procedures
- Panic alarm available
- CCTV monitoring
- Emergency contact list
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 23 hazards and 69+ control measures for Cafe & Coffee Shop, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Cafe safety checklist
Coffee Equipment
- Machine temperature checked
- Steam wand purged
- Grinder cleaned
- Water filter status
Food Display
- Cabinet temperatures
- Allergen labels visible
- Date rotation done
- Display case clean
Customer Area
- Tables wiped
- Floors clear
- Outdoor furniture secure
- Lighting adequate
End of Day
- Equipment off
- Milk fridges checked
- Cash secured
- Doors locked
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