RBS (Responsible Beverage Service) is a program that was created in an effort to reduce drunk driving and related accidents. It is mandatory for all companies that sell alcoholic beverages in California to have RBS training on staff. However, is RBS training really necessary for all companies? We took a look at the situation to find out.
The problem with drunk driving are countless statistics that illustrate the severity of drunk driving and the dangers it poses. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol kills more people than tobacco every year. In fact, alcohol is involved in more fatalities than any other drug. When you include drunk driving, distracted driving, and reckless driving, alcohol causes more deaths than all other drugs and vehicles combined.
What does RBS training Do?
RBS training helps businesses understand how alcohol affects customers and employees. It teaches managers how to identify signs of intoxication and how to provide effective intervention strategies. Additionally, RBS training can help prevent workplace accidents by making sure employees know their responsibilities while intoxicated.
So is RBS training really necessary for all companies? The answer is yes, depending on your business’s specific needs. If you sell alcoholic beverages, it is important to have RBS training on staff.
What is RBS?
RBS is a program within the California department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) designed to promote responsible drinking. RBS training is mandatory for all ABC licensees in California, including businesses that sell alcoholic beverages. All ABC licensees must complete the RBS training every two years.
The RBS course covers topics such as:
– The effects of alcohol on individuals and society.
– The ABC’s role in regulating alcohol sales and consumption.
– How to identify and avoid problem drinking behaviors.
– How to promote safe drinking practices among your customers.
– How to respond if someone reports an incident involving alcohol.
– How to prevent alcohol-related problems in your establishment.
What are the Requirements for RBS in California?
According to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, “RBS is a voluntary program that allows licensed restaurants and other retail food service establishments to provide alcoholic beverages to their customers. RBS must be implemented in a manner that complies with all applicable state and federal laws.” Consequently, RBS training is not mandatory in California. However, failure to implement RBS procedures could result in fines and punishment.
To participate in the RBS program, establishments must be licensed and must have an alcoholic beverage permit. The permit must be displayed prominently at the establishment. All alcoholic beverages sold through the RBS program must be consumed onsite by the customer.
Restaurants and other retail food service establishments that wish to participate in the RBS program must first submit an application to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The application contains detailed information about the establishment, including its location, hours of operation, and inventory of alcoholic beverages. After receiving approval from ABC, participating restaurants must obtain an RBS permit from the Department of Food and Agriculture.
What are the Risks if You Do Not Have RBS?
If you do not have RBS training, you and your employees may be at risk for alcohol-induced accidents and injuries. Alcohol consumption can impair your ability to make good judgments, which could lead to a situation in which someone is harmed or killed. In some cases, alcohol consumption can also lead to criminal behavior that could put others in danger.
Mandatory RBS training can help mitigate these risks. The training can help you identify how alcohol affects your employees and how to prevent dangerous situations from arising. You will also learn about the penalties for violating California’s alcohol laws.
Who is Covered by the Requirement?
The definition of responsible beverage service is found within section 12662.5 which states:
“Responsible beverage service means providing a safe and healthy environment for customers while they are drinking alcohol, including instruction on how to avoid drunken driving and other harmful behaviors.”
The requirement for RBS training applies to all businesses with three or more employees, regardless of size. This includes both physical locations (such as restaurants and bars) and online providers (such as e-commerce sites). Training must be provided before the employee begins work, or within 60 days of hire, whichever comes first.
What Happens if You Fail to Comply?
If you are a business or an individual in California and do not comply with the responsible beverage service training requirements, you may be subject to fines and penalties. This program is designed to promote safety and responsible drinking by businesses.
Businesses that fail to comply with the training requirements may be fined up to $5,000 per occurrence, as well as receive a warning letter from the state. If the violation continues after receiving a warning letter, the business could be subject to fines of up to $10,000 per occurrence and/or imprisonment for up to six months.
Conclusion
The Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) training program is not mandatory for all licensees in California, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking of taking the course.
– First and foremost, it’s important to know that RBS is not just a licensing requirement – it’s also an ongoing responsibility. This means that every licensee must remain up-to-date on the latest beverage service laws and regulations.
– Secondly, RBS training isn’t just about being aware of the law – it’s also about having the skills necessary to serve beverages responsibly. This includes understanding how alcohol affects people differently based on their age, gender, race and cultural background, as well as having knowledge of safe serving practices.
– Finally, don’t forget that establishing good customer relations is essential for any business – including a licensee looking to offer responsible beverages service. If these points sound like something you’d be interested in pursuing, be sure to contact your local RBS office for more information or attend one of their quarterly refresher training sessions!
