Pubs could face a doorstaff shortage during this summer's Olympics games, with workers expected to be lured away by lucrative short-term Games contracts.
The Publicans' Morning Advertiser (PMA) reports that there is widespread concern that venues could face a doorstaff shortfall, which could potentially force some pubs to close if the conditions of their licenses stipulate that they must have security personnel manning the doors.
According to the PMA, Olympic organisers will need to recruit nearly 24,000 security workers.
Adrian Studd, Olympics licensing lead at the Metropolitan Police, told the PMA that lucrative short-term contracts will be on offer this summer, which could attract those looking to "make a quick buck".
He also urged publicans to try to tie their staff into contracts and persuade them not leave.
Ian Graham, chairman of the Association of Chief Police Officers’ alcohol harm and licensing working group, agrees with Mr Studd's sentiments.
"The issue is that it will draw staff away from their day jobs. At the moment there aren't enough doorstaff to go around," he told the PMA.
At the same time as security staff numbers will potentially fall, pubs will likely see an increase in trade from the thousands flocking to the capital for the Games.
This combination will further increase the importance of having adequate pub insurance in place, which, as well covering for loss of liquor licence, can protect against public and products liability.
Other factors that may affect a pub's license is selling alcohol to under 18s, which is likely to be unintentional.
In order to ensure they are not selling alcohol to underage people, pubs should employ the Challenge 25 policy adopted by the government.
This means that landlords and staff should ask for identification from people who look younger than 25-years-of-age to ensure they are old enough.
