As Ireland’s largest procurement company, First Choice Purchasing are in a privileged position to be partners to a sizeable portion of the nation’s hotels. During these unprecedented times we have been in daily contact with both hotels and suppliers. The feedback we have received has been centred around the uncertainty about the guidelines for reopening Hotels.
Through our extensive network of contacts and consultation with governing partners within the hospitality sector, we have created a forecast guide to reopening your business.
Hotels are scheduled to reopen on Monday 29th June following the publication of the Irish government’s Roadmap for reopening society and business. Phase four of this plan states that hotels will be allowed to reopen with:
– Strict adherence to cleaning protocols
– PPE compliance
– Capacity restrictions
– Social distancing
What do you need to know about cleaning products & protocols?
It is imperative that all cleaning products and protocols need to adhere to HSE guidelines. All products should be approved for use against bacteria and viruses to prevent possible infections.
Product manufacturer instructions need to be followed with regard to dilution, application and duration of use. It is important that management review cleaning procedures within all departments of your hotel. If cleaning products are changed, it is recommended that alternative products adhere to HSE guidelines.
First choice purchasing is working with suppliers, vendors, and distribution partners to maintain an uninterrupted supply of cleaning products.
What areas of your hotel do you need to focus on?
- All of the properties entry and exit points
- Employee Entrances
- Specific Department offices
- Cleaning and Maintenance – Gloves and Aprons are recommended for use of cleaning
Public Spaces & Communal Areas
Regular cleaning and sanitising in all public spaces needs to be adhered to throughout the day and especially during busy periods. Frequently touched surfaces such as counters, desks, door handles, room keys, ATM’s, dining surfaces, seating areas and stair handrails need regular attention.
Guest Rooms
HSE guidelines for cleaning and sanitising protocols should be adhered to when cleaning guest accommodation. Particular focus needs to be paid to frequently touched items including door and furniture handles, television remote controls, temperature control panels, light switches, toilet seats and handles, flooring, kitchen appliances, taps and telephones.
Employee Areas
Employee areas should also be regularly sanitised. Particular focus should be paid to employee entrances, the canteen, employee bathrooms, uniform control rooms, loading areas, employee relations service desks and kitchens.
Employee Equipment
Sanitise shared equipment and tools before, during and after each shift or anytime the equipment is transferred to another employee.
This includes items such as phones, computers and other communication devices, keys, payment terminals, kitchen implements, tools, safety buttons, cleaning equipment, time clocks and all other direct contact items used.
Shared food and beverage equipment in back of house areas (e.g. kettle, microwave, etc.) needs to be sanitised / disinfected regularly. The same applies to clocking-in machines which should be equipped with hand sanitisers and antibacterial wipes.
Room Recovery Protocol
In the event of a suspected case of COVID-19, the guest’s room must be removed from service and quarantined. The room will not be returned to service until it has undergone an enhanced sanitisation protocol which follows HSE guidelines.
How can First Choice Purchasing can help?
We can provide your hotel with a secure and consistent supply of items needed to help your hotel open in a compliant and safe manner. Our supply chains are fully operational and our COVID19 response team are on call to help you. As well as our full range of goods and services we have introduced a complete range of COVID19 items:
- Hand Sanitisers
- A full range of HSE compliant cleaning products
- Decontamination service
- Floor markers & way finding
- A comprehensive range of PPE
To arrange a consultation with a member of our COVID19 response team, visit our contact page.
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Useful Documents:
– Guidance for Businesses Re-Opening when Restrictions are Lifted
– Guidance on the Safe Use of Face Coverings
– NSAI Workplace Protection and Improvement Guide
– Getting Your Workplace Ready Guide
– Ensuring Safety and Health at Work
