People working in cafés typically perform various tasks related to preparing food and beverages. This includes:
- Operating the POS system while taking orders
- Customer service
- Operating the coffee machine for hot drinks
- Operating commercial cooking equipment
- Operating a small commercial fryer
- Food preparation
- Stocking display fridges and other storage areas
- Cleaning service preparation benches and floors in both the patron and staff areas
- Ensuring safe food handling practices
- Washing crockery and utensils
- Operating commercial dishwashing equipment
- Deliver orders to tables and workplaces
Some of these tasks may not be appropriate or safe for a person with significant mobility impairment, especially a person that uses a wheelchair. It is also worth noting that if such a person was permitted to work in this type of environment, there might be workplace health and safety issues in ensuring a safe workplace.
On this basis, employee-only restricted work areas may be considered exempt from all accessibility requirements under the Premises Standards and BCA requirements. However, it is important to note that any such claim for an exemption must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
If you believe you have grounds for an exemption, please complete the form below, and we will assess your claim.