Report Comm

MEMO

To: Mr. Seif, Operations Director

Date: March 25, 2013

Subject: Implementing Cafeteria Staff Uniform

PROBLEM

There are two reasons why the cafeteria staff are not wearing their uniforms.

The Environment

The first problem is that the kitchen environment is very hot and humid. The dishwashers run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to maintain a steady supply of cleaned dishes in order to keep the work areas clean. The dishwashers contain a heating element that is used to heat up the water and dry the utensils. This heating element is the reason why dishwashers produce a lot of steam, contributing towards the hot, humid kitchen temperature.

Moreover, kitchen includes six burners and two ovens, which are always on to cook the items on the lunch menu. There are no exhaust fans or vents located in the kitchen to ventilate the kitchen. Hence the heat is not regulated properly. Cafeteria workers feel uncomfortable in this environment and are unable to work in their provided uniforms.

Current Uniforms

The second issue is that the current staff uniforms are not appropriate for cafeteria staff. These uniforms are long sleeved and tight fit, preventing staff to move freely and stay cool. Staff members are constantly in motion to fulfill food orders in a short period of time. Tight, long sleeve blouses make it hard and uncomfortable for staff members to work freely, hence, reducing kitchen staff productivity.

Kitchen staff members are vulnerable to stains and discolouring on their clothing. White coloured uniforms increase the visibility of these marks, making the uniform appear dirty in a short period of time.

Moreover, the full length-apron is very hazardous for cafeteria work. They are too long for shorter staff members and they have a higher chance of tripping on their aprons if they are in a hurry. In fact, last month, a staff member hurt herself by tripping on her apron. Furthermore, these long aprons can easily get caught in mixer head and...