For any Pennsylvania establishment serving alcohol, Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) certification is a vital compliance requirement. Whether you manage a restaurant, bar, or any other venue selling alcohol, understanding the five key components of RAMP certification ensures both your business and staff are operating legally and responsibly. In this article, I will break down each component and provide practical guidance on completing your RAMP certification.
1. Owner/Manager Training
The first step in RAMP certification involves Owner/Manager Training. At least one owner or an approved manager must attend this training, offered for free by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). As of October 1, 2021, first-time trainees are required to attend this training in person. After the initial training, they can choose to take either online or classroom sessions for future certifications. Register for this training on the PLCB’s website.
2. Server/Seller Training
For your food and beverage business to remain RAMP compliant, at least 50% of your alcohol service staff must complete Server/Seller Training. This includes anyone who serves alcohol or checks IDs, whether they are paid employees or volunteers. Cashiers selling ready-to-drink cocktails for off-premises consumption must also complete this training. The goal is to ensure all staff understands the laws surrounding responsible alcohol service. Upon completing the training, staff members must pass an exam with a score of 80% or better. Training options include: (i) In-house training: hire a PLCB-approved trainer to conduct a session at your establishment, (ii) scheduled classes: Your staff can join public classes offered by PLCB-approved trainers, (iii) online training: For convenience, online training providers are also available.
3. New Employee Orientation
Every new hire involved in alcohol service must complete a New Employee Orientation form within 30 days of being hired. This requirement applies to all employees who serve alcohol or check IDs, regardless of how often they work. Owners and managers are also required to complete this form if they perform these duties. The licensee is responsible for ensuring the form is filled out, and the records should be maintained throughout the employee’s tenure. Also, a new employee’s identifying information and orientation date must be entered electronically in your PLCB+ portal.
4. Signage
Posting appropriate signage is another requirement for RAMP certification. The PLCB provides signage during the Owner/Manager Training, or it can be ordered through PLCB+. Alternatively, businesses can use their own signs if they meet the PLCB’s specifications for size and content. The design of the signs must be so that they are legible from a distance of at least 10 feet. Your signage must be visible to customers and should include information on: (i) acceptable forms of ID, (ii) the refusal of alcohol service to minors and visibly intoxicated patrons.
5. Apply for RAMP Certification
This might be the most critical step because it is often overlooked. You’ve done the training, you’ve posted the signs, and you’ve completed the paperwork. Now, it’s time to apply for RAMP certification in your PLCB+ portal. Doing steps 1-4 (above) is not enough for your restaurant to be RAMP certified. If your business is required to be RAMP certified and you fail to apply for certification, you are at risk of getting a citation from the Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement. Ensure that all records are properly maintained and follow the provided instructions for submitting your application. Once approved, your establishment will receive official certification.
Conclusion
Becoming RAMP-certified is essential for maintaining a legally compliant and responsible alcohol-serving establishment in Pennsylvania. Completing each of the five components—Owner/Manager Training, Server/Seller Training, New Employee Orientation, Signage, and the final RAMP application—ensures you are operating within the state’s laws and fostering a safer environment for both employees and patrons. RAMP certification is valid for two years. Put the deadline on your calendar and do not forget to reapply for certification.
