ServSafe Workplace — All Questions

A server sees a coworker being cornered and made uncomfortable by a regular guest. Which is an example of safe bystander intervention?

• a.Filming it for social media
• b.Ignoring it because it involves a paying customer
• c.Creating a distraction — for example, telling the coworker they're needed at the pass — to interrupt the situation and check on them afterward✓
• d.Loudly accusing the guest and escalating into a physical fight

Bystander intervention includes safe, low-risk tactics such as creating a distraction to break up the moment and then privately checking in with the affected coworker or alerting a manager. The goal is to interrupt the harassment and support the target without putting anyone in danger. Filming it, ignoring it because a customer is involved, or escalating to a physical confrontation are not safe or appropriate.

What is a helpful thing a bystander can do after witnessing possible harassment, even if they could not safely act in the moment?

• a.Check on the person who was targeted and encourage or help them report it✓
• b.Tell the target to forget about it so no one gets in trouble
• c.Assume someone else will definitely handle it
• d.Warn the harasser that a complaint might be coming

Even when direct intervention is not safe, a bystander can support the target afterward — asking if they're okay, letting them know what was witnessed, and helping them report it through the proper channel. Telling someone to "let it go," assuming others will act, or tipping off the harasser all leave the target unsupported and can make the situation worse.

Why is a culture where coworkers are willing to step in or speak up important for preventing harassment?

• a.Because it lets managers avoid ever writing a policy
• b.Because bystanders are legally required to physically stop all harassment
• c.Because harassment is only a problem when no customers are present
• d.Because when coworkers notice, support targets, and report, harassment is less likely to be ignored or to escalate✓

A workplace where people are willing to notice, support those affected, and report problems makes it far less likely that harassment goes unaddressed or grows worse. Bystanders are not expected to physically stop harassment or replace clear policies and manager action — they add an extra layer of accountability by refusing to stay silent, whether or not guests are around.