Red Deer’s Public Safety Compliance Team (PSCT) conducted safety checks at local restaurants and bars recently.
The Public Safety Compliance Team (PSCT) formed in 2013 as a partnership between Red Deer Emergency Services, Red Deer RCMP, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission, Alberta Health Services, and The City’s Inspections & Licensing Department.
On Dec. 21st, the PSCT inspected 10 local bars, restaurants and events. Individual inspections between each partner included checks on health codes and food storage, building fire codes, fire exits and occupant loads, safety and security of patrons and staff, and liquor sales relating to legal age and consumption levels.
Restaurant owners are reminded to be diligent in regards to required maintenance of fire safety equipment that protects cooking appliances.
Failure to maintain systems may result in the closure of cooking equipment that produce grease laden vapors (deep fat fryers, grills, char broilers) and may result in legal action as per the Safety Codes Act.
“The PSCT works together to ensure local hospitality and entertainment establishments provide a safe environment for both patrons and staff,” said Wes Van Bavel, fire marshal for Red Deer Emergency Services.
“Safe, quality local businesses are what makes our community thrive.”
The PSCT is both preventive and enforcement based, and uses a coordinated approach to ensure that the hospitality industry is following and maintaining standards as outlined in Federal and Provincial Statues, as well as Municipal bylaws.
Unannounced safety inspections will continue to be conducted in the future, including inspections at local cannabis retail stores.
-Submitted by the City of Red Deer
