PSCT Education & Prevention

In an effort to work proactively with licensed premises in Edmonton, the Public Safety Compliance Team (PSCT) has outlined best practices for the management of licensed premises.

• Minors (under 18) are prohibited from purchasing alcohol and from entering age controlled establishments
• A licensee and staff should ensure service practices help detect an intoxicated person(s)
• Refuse liquor service to overly intoxicated patrons
• Premises should be safe and properly maintained
• Prohibit activities that may cause personal injury
• Given that intoxication impairs reflexes and motor function, consideration should be given to reducing hazard areas in the layout and design of premises (for example, lighting, space for traffic flow, stairs, etc.)
• A responsible use of alcohol program should be implemented to help reduce impaired driving (example: Designated Driver Program)
• Implement house policies, practices and supervision to reduce the risk of patron assault (example: provide adequate supervision and security). Maintain incident logs
• Keep capacity within the occupant load maximum
• Advertising must be within the limits of good taste and propriety and be accurate
• Advertising should encourage the legal, moderate, safe and responsible consumption of liquor and discourage abusive drinking patterns
• A licensee shall not permit competitions, contests, draws, giveaways or similar promotions in the licensed premises which require the purchase and/or the consumption of alcohol
• Operating within the limits of the approved business license categories for the premises
• Maintain condition of exterior
• Develop a noise control plan
• Corridors, aisles or stairways which lead to exits must be kept clear of storage items
• Exit doors must have accepted hardware and must be operational at all times
• Exit signs must be lit and clearly visible
• Fire alarm systems and fire extinguishers must be checked regularly and serviced yearly
• The occupant load must be posted and must not be exceeded
• An accurate occupant load count must be kept at all times
• Maintain adequate ratio of patrons to security staff
• Use of recording surveillance cameras
• Use of “soft closing” techniques
• Strong door management
• Use of ID scanner
• EPS Agent Status
• Use of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles
• Maintain a controlled line-up
• Hold patrons and staff accountable
• Look for and eliminate “competition” among patrons (for service, space, coats, facilities, etc.)