Hazards

• The Police and/or Weights and Measures Department are allowed to send under age persons into licensed premises to purchase alcohol.
• If such a test purchase is successful, it is likely you will be interviewed with a view to being prosecuted in the criminal court, and referred for review of your licence.
• As an employer you are vulnerable for the negligent acts of your employees.
• The Premises Licence can be revoked if there is a sale of alcohol to a person aged under 18.
• Your personal licence can be revoked.
• If you are the Designated Premises Supervisor your licence can be revoked.
• Anyone involved in the sale of alcohol is liable to a criminal conviction.

What should you do?

• It is a defence that you have taken all reasonable precautions and shown all due diligence.
• Prepare an Employee Training Manual and/or Staff Handbook.
• Training is crucial - it protects you, and your employees. DO NOT ASSUME THAT EVERY ONE CAN READ OR UNDERSTAND WHAT IS WRITTEN IN A DOCUMENT
• Independent Training - sending your staff on the Award for Responsible Retail of Alcohol course, such as the one I provide, is valuable evidence for you.
• Review and monitor progress and check that your rules are being adhered to.
• Carry out discreet observation and keep records.
• Have a refusals book.
• Ensure all staff sign any completed training questionnaires/packages.