New York City Food Protection Practice Test

What types of injuries are most common among restaurant workers?

1. Headaches and fatigue

2. Slips, trips, falls, cuts, and burns

3. Back pain and eye strain

4. Cardiovascular problems

The correct answer is: Slips, trips, falls, cuts, and burns

The answer identifies slips, trips, falls, cuts, and burns as the most common types of injuries among restaurant workers, which is well-supported by workplace safety studies. The restaurant environment is inherently risky, with various factors contributing to these specific injuries. For instance, the combination of wet floors, grease accumulation, and the fast-paced nature of restaurant work increases the likelihood of slips and falls. Cuts are frequent due to the use of sharp kitchen tools and equipment, while burns can occur from hot surfaces, boiling liquids, or open flames. These hazards are prevalent in a kitchen setting, where workers are constantly moving around and handling food, thus making these types of injuries the most common. In contrast, the other types of injuries mentioned, such as headaches and fatigue, back pain and eye strain, or cardiovascular problems, do not occur as frequently or do not represent immediate physical dangers in a typical restaurant environment. While they can affect workers over time or in specific situations, they do not compare to the high incidence of slips, trips, falls, cuts, and burns, making the selected answer the most accurate reflection of the risks faced by restaurant workers.