Responsible Alcohol Service
What you must understand
Responsible service means preventing intoxication, underage sales, and drink-driving. Know the signs of intoxication: slurred speech, loss of coordination, loud or aggressive behaviour, drowsiness, and repeated stories. Understand refusal skills: be polite, firm, and consistent; offer alternatives such as water or food; involve a supervisor. Know the legal age for alcohol purchase and consumption where you work and the rules on acceptable ID (photo, date of birth, expiry). Understand that a person buying alcohol for a minor is also an offence in many jurisdictions. Recognise that alcohol affects people differently by body weight, food intake, and time.
Traps in questions
Questions often test the moment to refuse: before the drink is made, not after. Another trap is serving someone who is clearly intoxicated because a friend ordered for them, or accepting an expired ID. Watch for options that suggest arguing, embarrassing the guest publicly, or continuing to serve "just one more." Also beware of assuming a guest is of age because they look older, or that a designated driver means the group can drink freely. Remember: if in doubt, do not serve.
Worked example
A guest who is already unsteady orders another round. Strong response: "I'm sorry, I can't serve you another drink right now. Can I bring you some water and something to eat?" If they insist, involve the supervisor and offer to call a taxi.
Rule of thumb
When in doubt about age or sobriety, do not serve - and involve a supervisor early.