Summer festivals and busy event seasons often mean mobile caterers need extra help. Whether you’re bringing in casual workers, family members, festival staff, or temporary kitchen assistants, it’s important to understand your legal responsibilities and insurance requirements.
Many business owners assume temporary workers are automatically covered under existing insurance policies, but that is not always the case.
Do temporary staff need to be covered?
In most cases, yes. If someone works for your business, even casually or temporarily, you may still have legal responsibilities towards them. This can include:
- Paid temporary staff
- Casual event workers
- Weekend assistants
- Kitchen helpers
- Family members helping during events
Employers’ Liability Insurance
Employers’ Liability Insurance is a legal requirement for most UK businesses that employ staff. This insurance can help protect your business if an employee becomes injured or ill as a result of their work.
The Health and Safety Executive outlines the legal requirements in more detail.
What happens if you don’t have cover?
Failing to hold valid Employers’ Liability Insurance can result in significant fines. It may also leave your business financially exposed if someone is injured while working for you.
Common risks for temporary staff
Temporary workers may be more vulnerable to accidents if they are unfamiliar with:
- Equipment
- Food safety procedures
- Gas appliances
- Fire safety protocols
- Manual handling procedures
Providing basic training and supervision is essential.
Do volunteers count?
Some volunteers may still require insurance cover depending on their role and working arrangements. If you are unsure whether someone should be covered, it’s always best to check with your insurer.
Keeping your insurer updated
If your staffing levels increase during festival season, inform your insurer as soon as possible.
Important details may include:
- Number of staff
- Types of duties performed
- Seasonal trading increases
- Use of temporary workers
Risk management tips
To protect both staff and your business:
- Provide staff inductions
- Document training
- Carry out risk assessments
- Maintain safe working environments
- Ensure PPE is available where necessary
Temporary staff can help mobile caterers manage busy events and festival periods successfully, but it’s important to ensure your insurance and compliance responsibilities are fully addressed.