From clean, pressed sheets and fluffy white towels to impeccably dressed staff serving every guest with a beaming smile, many things contribute to the making of a great hotel. But aside from the sparkling exterior, there are other factors that go into a successful property that hoteliers need to consider. Below are five health and safety tips that hotel staff should follow.
Have Strict Security Measures in Place to Ensure Safety of Guests and Staff
It’s crucial for hoteliers to have robust security measures in place to keep both guests and staff safe. As well as putting the property at risk from theft, hotels with inadequate security can be held liable for criminal acts. One illegal act of violence, particularly against a guest, can damage a hotel’s reputation.
As well as installing burglar alarms and CCTV that staff should regularly monitor, hotels should also have controlled after-hours access. Station security personnel at all of the hotel’s main entrances and train them to greet guests and turn away anyone who isn’t authorized. A 24-hour security presence can be just as useful as burglar alarms and CCTV in deterring potential troublemakers.
Always check ID. Whether that’s checking the ID of someone who’s asking for a replacement room key or checking the credentials of every contractor who walks onto a property, teach staff to be thorough as it helps to create a secure hotel for everyone. Also, consider implementing strict signing in and signing out measures for guests of guests.
Install fire and smoke alarms to prevent the spread of fires. Train employees in first aid and what to do in the case of emergencies. While it’s important to prevent emergencies from happening, it’s also important for staff to know how to act professionally and efficiently if they do happen.
Have Employees Work in Teams of Two to Ensure Their Safety
When employees go about their daily jobs, make sure that they work in teams of two. This ensures their safety and will even help raise morale, as staff will not only appreciate that their employer cares about their safety but also appreciate having someone else to work with.
Train Employees to Use the Equipment and Products They Regularly Work With
Make sure employees are well-trained on how to use the equipment their role requires them to use. For example, kitchen staff should know how to safely use and clean their equipment in order to prevent accidents. They should always wear protective gear such as safety glasses and slip-resistant shoes.
Employees and contractors should be knowledgeable in how room keys are distributed. Also, consider rekeying electronic room key locks in between guests. This further minimizes the risk of theft and burglary.
All Employees Should Always Wear the Appropriate Uniform
Ensure that all staff members wear company-issued uniforms with name tags. This allows guests to distinguish who is an employee and who is not, and allows the hotel to crack down on imposters, should there ever be one.
As well as this, uniforms should meet a certain standard. Generally, they should be neat and clean to maintain high levels of hygiene. It’s also important for staff to wear appropriate shoes that are both comfortable and smart-looking. Staff are the face of the hotel. Guests will be put off if they see someone in stained or worn uniform that’s coming apart at the seams.
Minimize Hazards and Prevent Common Accidents and Injuries
Avoid hazards by cleaning up spills, keeping appliances away from wet areas, and keeping walkways and fire exits clear. Train managers and general staff on how to spot and deal with hazards quickly and efficiently. This is a simple way to prevent major and minor accidents.
In the end, hotel success is about more than just appearance and service. Combine these with high safety standards and the hotel will excel.
About the Author
Tom Larkin is marketing controller with Shoes For Crews (Europe) Limited, a manufacturer of slip-resistant and safety footwear. Previously, he held senior marketing roles on the client and agency side for companies in both London and Dublin.
