Back to Basics: Responsible pub retailing

Demands on licensees to run an orderly, law-abiding pub are increasing all the time, and the Best Bar None (BBN) scheme is playing a key role in raising standards in high street bars and pubs right across the country.

Initiated by Manchester police in 2003, BBN now has the backing of the BII.

Awards recognising venues for best practice in social responsibility are now held annually in around 90 UK towns and cities, and the scheme's first national conference will be staged in September.

And since last October more than 200 people have sat for the BII Awarding Body's new qualification for assessors.

So what does it take to become Best Bar None? Although each scheme is broadly similar, each town or city has developed its own judging methods and criteria, so you should contact your local authority or police force to find out how to take part.

Meanwhile, the guidelines on these pages are based on the scheme in Doncaster, which is hosting the inaugural BBN conference.

Remember that these are just the basics, drawn from the licensing objectives that, if you are a busy high street venue, you should already be meeting to ensure you keep your licence.

To win one of the top BBN awards you will have to go a lot further than this, of course, but the checklist should help you make sure you have made the right start. Checklist - essentials of an orderly pubManage capacity

Use clickers and a capacity log book, and if necessary introduce ticketing.Hold regular security reviews

Identify problems as a result of an incident and discuss with staff.Keep a written record of accidents

Use an incident log and accident report book.Have policies on drunkenness

Train staff and issue them with written directions about not serving people who are drunk, have signs advising customers of the fact and encourage consumption of non-alcoholic drink. Follow the established code of practice on drinks promotions

See box below.

Zero tolerance on drugs

Have a policy on what to do about anyone caught in possession of drugs. Advertise the policy with posters and make regular toilet checks.Protect customers from thieves

Train staff in crime prevention, attach bag clips under tables and at the bar, display anti-theft messages on posters and use CCTV.Protect premises when empty

Use alarms and other security measures to prevent break-ins.Deal with disorder

Have a strategy for defusing trouble and train staff to pre-empt disorder.Have a first aid kit on the premises

Make sure at least one member of staff is trained in first aid.Implement a glass collection policy

Have a member of staff co-ordinate glass collection, set a ratio for glass collectors to customers and decide where glass is disposed of and how often.Have a fire safety policy

Include a detection and warning system. Keep fire exits unobstructed and well-lit, complete a fire safety risk assessment and train staff in safety procedures.Keep building and its contents in good order

Ensure repairs are carried out and keep a building maintenance log.Operate a noise policy during opening hours

Close doors and windows, prevent customers making noise when they leave and give someone responsibility for implementing this policy.Prevent under-18s buying or consuming alcohol

Train staff in all age and alcohol-related offences. Implement a Challenge 21 policy by checking ID for anyone who appears to be under 21 and advertise your strict policy on posters behind the bar and at the entrance.