Responsible Beverage Service

The focus of RBS programs is to prevent alcohol service to minor and intoxicated patrons and to intervene so intoxicated patrons do not drive. Efforts to promote RBS consist of the implementation of a combination of outlet policies (e.g., requiring clerks or servers to check identification for all customers appearing to be under the age of 30, cutting off service to intoxicated patrons, limiting sales of pitchers of alcohol, promoting alcohol-free drinks and food, and eliminating last call announcements) and training in their implementation (e.g., teaching clerks and servers to recognize altered or false identification, training servers to recognize intoxicated patrons and deny service). RBS can be implemented at both on-license (Saltz & Stanghetta, 1997) and off-license establishments (Grube, 1997). Voluntary programs appear to be less effective than mandatory pro- grams or programs using incentives such as reduced liability. How RBS is implemented and what elements are included in a particular program may be an important determinant of its effectiveness. Policy development and implementation within outlets may be more important than server training in determining RBS effectiveness. Overall, however, establishing definite alcohol serving policies in each licensed establishment has the potential to reduce sales of alcohol to youth and overall problematic consumption of alcohol.