Working on a yacht is not as glamorous as it might seem. The hours are long, and the duties are grueling for all employees. However, one person on the yacht faces significant risks that others don’t. This person is the chef, who often works in the galley on their own.
Limited space, constant movement and open flames are some of the safety risks that chefs face when they work in the galley of a yacht. Even the most seasoned yacht chef should understand and remember the basics of galley safety to help prevent accidents on the boat.
Secure everything when underway
Unlike kitchens on land, a yacht galley needs to be ready for sudden motions that come with waves. All items should be properly secured. This is especially important for heavy items like pots or sharp objects like knives. When the yacht is underway, even routine cooking tools can become hazards if they aren’t properly secured. Chefs can also use nonslip mats and lock cabinets to avoid dangerous shifting.
Fire prevention and ventilation
Another risk that comes with working on a yacht in the galley is the use of propane and alcohol stoves. While these are efficient for kitchens on the water, they have a higher fire risk than an electric stove. It’s critical that chefs check fuel lines for leaks and ensure that the ventilation in the space is adequate. There should always be a fire extinguisher nearby that’s easy to reach. The galley should never be left unattended when cooking.
Any yacht chef who suffers an injury at work should get immediate medical attention. This can be costly. Because laws for workers on yachts aren’t always the same as those for individuals working on land, it’s critical that injured workers seek experienced legal guidance to determine their options. Taking action swiftly is critical because these cases have strict time limits due to the statue of limitations.