Saskatchewan launches mandatory training for alcohol servers in bid to help fight impaired driving

The government of Saskatchewan announced on Monday that people who serve and sell alcohol in licensed establishments in the province will soon be required to complete server intervention training in a bid to help curb impaired driving.

Serve it Right Saskatchewan (SIRS) is a course designed to help curb underage drinking, reduce overconsumption, impaired driving and the risk of violence in and around liquor permitted premises, the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) said in a press release. Training topics include legal responsibilities and liability, identifying intoxication, handling situations involving minors and discontinuing or refusing service or sale of alcohol.

“For years, SIRS training for bar and restaurant staff has been voluntary in Saskatchewan,” said Don Morris, the Minister responsible for SLGA, in the release. “Mandatory training is an important tool that will help ensure the responsible service of alcohol and the safety of patrons in the hospitality industry.”

The mandatory training will be phased in over three years. By June 30, 2016, all owners and managers will be required to have completed the training and new hires must take the training within 30 days of beginning employment. By June 30, 2017, there must be at least one person on each shift who has completed the training and by June 30 of 2018, all employees involved in the sale and service of alcohol must have completed SIRS.

SIRS is delivered by the Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council, a division of Tourism Saskatchewan. The course can be completed online as a self-directed course or in group seminars. The cost of the program ranges from $30 to $50, depending on the method used and certification is valid for five years.