Class Code 8078
Sandwich Shops; Beverage Preparation Shops; Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt Shops
Class code 8078 applies to California sandwich shops, beverage-preparation counters, and ice cream/frozen yogurt shops. The approved pure premium rate for September 1, 2026 is $1.381 per $100 of payroll — an important baseline when budgeting workers' compensation costs for these foodservice operations.
What Class Code 8078 Covers
This classification covers retail foodservice operations where employees prepare and assemble ready-to-eat sandwiches, make blended and espresso-style beverages, and scoop or dispense ice cream and frozen yogurt. Typical operations include cold and hot sandwich assembly, use of meat slicers and panini grills, blender and espresso-steamer operation, topping-bar service, refrigeration and freezer maintenance, and routine cleaning and sanitation of food-contact surfaces and equipment. The code applies to both counter service and limited-delivery cafés where most work is performed inside the shop; large-scale manufacturing of sandwich products or tuna/meat packing for wholesale would not fall under 8078. Activities like receiving and storing ingredients, restocking topping stations, operating point-of-sale systems, and routine machine cleaning are also included when performed by shop staff.
Who It Applies To
- Counter servers, sandwich makers, and food preparers
- Baristas and beverage preparers (blenders, espresso)
- Ice cream/frozen yogurt scoop attendants and topping station attendants
- Cashiers, POS operators and counter staff
- Kitchen/dishwashing and sanitation workers in small shops
- Shop managers and shift supervisors who perform hands-on prep
Common Job Duties
- Assembling sandwiches, wraps and salads to order
- Operating slicers, grills, panini presses, and toasters
- Preparing blended beverages and operating espresso machines/steam wands
- Scooping ice cream or dispensing frozen yogurt and managing toppings
- Cleaning and sanitizing food-contact surfaces, equipment, and drains
- Receiving deliveries, lifting ingredient cases and restocking refrigerated units
- Operating the point-of-sale system and interacting with customers
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $1.381 Rate
The pure premium rate of $1.381 per $100 of payroll is the WCIRB's loss-cost benchmark: multiply your classified payroll by 0.01381 to get the pure premium. Insurers then apply experience modification, schedule credits/debits, minimum premiums, policy fees, and state assessments to produce the final premium an employer pays. Factors that can raise or lower your final workers' comp premium include your claims history, payroll mix across classifications, safety programs, injury frequency/severity, and how accurately payroll is reported and segmented.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Employers in this class must implement Cal/OSHA-required controls such as an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP, Title 8 §3203) and train employees on hazards and safe practices. Where chemical cleaners and sanitizers are used, comply with Hazard Communication requirements and provide SDS access and PPE. Machine guarding, lockout-tagout for equipment maintenance, and training for steam/warmth-producing equipment are essential to prevent cuts, burns and entrapment; local public health code requirements for food sanitation will overlap with worker hygiene obligations.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 8078
A PEO like Key HR helps by ensuring correct payroll classification, bundling payroll and premiums to reduce administrative errors that trigger audits, and delivering targeted loss-control programs (knife-safety, slip-resistance, steam/espresso training). Key HR also handles workers' comp claims management, coordinates modified duty return-to-work plans, and provides safety training and documentation that can lower experience modification and thus reduce actual premiums.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do delivery drivers for my sandwich shop fall under class 8078?
Not usually. In-shop food prep and counter staff belong in 8078, but drivers typically get a separate drivers/delivery classification. Separate and accurately report payroll for delivery drivers to avoid misclassification and incorrect premium charges.
What are the most effective ways to lower my workers' comp costs for a small sandwich shop?
Focus on proven loss-control measures: knife and slicer safety training and guarding, anti-slip mats and prompt spill cleanup, steam/espresso operation training, ergonomic lifting practices, consistent use of gloves and aprons, and a written return-to-work program. Accurate payroll reporting and quick, well-managed claims reduce experience modification over time.
If my shop uses industrial mixers or a walk-in freezer, does that change the classification or rate?
Using heavier equipment or expanded operations can increase exposure but usually stays in 8078 if the primary business is retail sandwich/beverage/ice cream service. If you perform manufacturing, large-scale food processing, or operate heavy forklift equipment, portions of payroll may need to be assigned to different class codes. Consult Key HR to audit operations and ensure precise classification.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 8078
- Classification
- Sandwich Shops; Beverage Preparation Shops; Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt Shops
- Pure Premium Rate
- $1.381 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Ready to Simplify Workers' Comp for Class Code 8078?
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