The job duties of a hotel housekeeper are difficult. Also, there are a lot of risks that come with this occupation. It’s up to each hotel to provide a safe working environment for their employees, including housekeeping staff.
There are several hazards that these workers face. Understanding them is the only way that employers can keep these employees safe and that employees can try to avoid them. Hotel workers have an injury and non-fatal injury rate of 5.4. That’s considerably higher than the average rate of 3.5 for all other industries. These are just a few of the hazards that hotel employers and housekeeping employees alike need to account for.
1. Chemicals
The chemicals that housekeepers use in the hospitality industry are often harsh. Workers should be provided with material safety data sheets for all the chemicals they use. This provides them with the information they need to use the chemicals safely. It also tells them how to treat exposure to the chemicals. They should also be given anything they need to be able to use these chemicals safely as they clean.
2. Heavy lifting
Many people don’t realize that heavy lifting is a major part of housekeeping at a hotel. Housekeepers often have to lift and flip mattresses. Some also have to move furniture as they clean. Pushing heavy carts and lifting linens for washing also take considerable strength. Using safe lift techniques when heavy lifting is necessary to keep workers protected.
3. Biohazards
Hotel rooms might contain bodily fluids that can make housekeepers sick. Wearing gloves and other protective gear can help to minimize the chance of this, but it’s up to the hotels to provide the housekeepers with these items. They should also be given the tools necessary to do their job duties safely.
Any worker who suffers an injury at work should ensure they get the medical care they need. Workers’ compensation coverage should pay their medical bills and take care of some other costs, such as missed wages if staff are unable to return to work right away. Working with someone who’s familiar with these matters is beneficial because appeals can generally be avoided if an application for benefits is filled out sufficiently to begin with.
