This year, Americans plan to spend more than $80 each enjoying Sunday's Super Bowl match-up in Atlanta between the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams, according to the National Retail Federation. "You don't have to be a football fan to celebrate the Super Bowl," NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a press release about the event. "Whether it's to see who wins, watch the halftime show and commercials or just get together with friends, this is the biggest party since New Year's Eve. Spending is expected to be at one the highest levels we've seen." The NRF says 72% of American adults will watch the game, and 13 million of them will do so at a bar or restaurant. That means it's also time for the service industry to suit up in order to avoid the increased risk that comes with larger-than-usual crowds. Here, two commercial insurance experts from ProSight Specialty Insurance — Niche President Tony Ciofani and Program Executive Michelle Pray — illuminate the insurance issues that Super Sunday introduces for bars and restaurants. They also provide tips for mitigating these risks.

What are the dominant risks for bars and restaurants hosting Super Bowl viewing events?

The dominant risks for bars and restaurants hosting Super Bowl viewing events include: |

• Liquor related risks (such as, driving while under the influence, fights and assaults, slip and falls);
• Food borne illness; and
• Data breaches.

What should employees and staff know about these risks?

Employees and staff should be familiar with: |

• Recognizing when someone has had too much to drink, including an awareness of patrons that may have been drinking prior to entering your restaurant, bar or tavern.
• Following safe food handling procedures.
• Cleaning up and food or beverage spills as quickly as possible or at the very least, make sure the area is sealed off from public access.

How can they best mitigate those risks?

Liquor-related risks can be mitigated by the following: |

• Establishments should have a written policy on serving alcohol.
• Provide all employees with training on liquor service protocols.
• Keep documentation on all incidents involving injuries and damage or that have the potential for subsequent injuries or damage.
• Use ID scanners to verify ID's are legitimate.
• Confirm security is appropriate for the number of customers expected, including: |
  • Complete background checks on all employees, especially on those providing security; and
  • If a vendor is used to provide security, confirm they have assault and battery coverage and have your business listed as an additional insured under their insurance policy.
• Arrange alternative transportation for impaired patrons.

Food safety risks have the potential to be lowered when: |

• The staff is trained on safe food handling procedures.
• Food is cooked thoroughly.
• Food storage areas are reviewed to confirm food is kept at proper temperatures.
• Refrigeration and cooking equipment are well maintained and in proper working order.
• Food is not left sitting out that can spoil quickly.

Data breach risks can be minimized by: |

• Protecting your POS system from access by unauthorized users and make sure you encrypt credit card information.
• Limiting access to back office systems to management, with controls in place to make sure past employees no longer have access, and use of these computers is not shared with non-business use of the same computer.
• Excluding access to any systems by contractors, other than authorized IT contractors.
• Using "EMV" chip technology for credit and debit card payments.
• Following Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards for all credit/debit card transactions.
• Using reputable 3rd party cloud services, with good security features to help secure data.
• Training employees on what to be aware of and how to spot possible breaches or fraud incidents.

How can service industry establishments be certain they have the right insurance to cover such events?

1. Purchase insurance from an admitted carrier that is an expert in the restaurant, bar and tavern industry and can meet the specific coverage needs of your unique establishment.
2. Select a carrier that offers business solutions, such as risk management support, discounted background checks and discounted ID scanners.
3. Beware of policy exclusions or limitations in coverage, for example sometimes assault and battery is sub-limited or excluded altogether.

What should patrons know about attending public Super Bowl parties?

1. Know where the exits are located.
2. Be mindful of your credit card information.
3. Plan ahead for safe transportation upon departure.

See also: |

• 6 homeowners insurance tips for Super Bowl party hosts
• Hard times: The NFL's insurance struggles
• NFL risks on and off the field