Hotels are scheduled to reopen on Monday 29thJune in Ireland. We have been in regular contact with our clients in the hospitality industry and a recurring concern has been how to open up safely. At First Choice Purchasing we have first-hand experience of the challenges presented by COVID19. Through our partnership with the NHI and supplying over 70% of Ireland’s nursing homes we are in a unique position to offer our expertise to our clients in the hospitality industry.
Guest & Employee Health are paramount to the safe reopening of Ireland’s hotels. This article outlines some steps to be strongly considered.
Temperature Checks
All employees tempatures should be checked when the arrive at work, in line with public health guidelines. Any employee with a temperature over 38°C should not be allowed entry to the property. Instead, they should be advised to seek appropriate medical assistance. Hotel management should consider checking the temperatures of guests, if appropriate.
Hand Sanitisers
Hand sanitiser dispensers (touch free, if possible), need be placed at all entry points to a property, at employee entrances and at specific points within the public areas of the property.
All hand sanitisers should have a minimum alcohol content of 60%
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing guidelines (as recommended by the HSE) should be incorporated into the action plan for each department within a property. Specific areas must also comply with mandatory capacity limits.
Guests should be advised to stand at least 2 metres away from other groups of people who are not part of their household unit standing in lines, using elevators, stairs or moving around the property.
Physical distancing of 2 metres does not apply to members of the same household.
Where applicable, arrange dining tables, seating and couches in public areas and other physical layouts to ensure appropriate distancing. The same guidelines apply to employees: they should be reminded to stand at least 2 metres away from guests and other employees whenever possible.
Property Signage
You should display appropriate COVID-19 signage relating to hand and respiratory hygiene and physical distancing measures throughout your property. Where feasible, television screens and monitors can communicate these messages in reception and common areas.
Employee & Guest Health Concerns
When they return to work, employees should be trained on what to do if they or a guest becomes unwell.
If Management is alerted to a suspected case of COVID-19 on the property, the necessary protocols and procedures outlined on the HSE website must be followed. They will also need to work directly with the HSE to follow the appropriate recommended actions.
NB: Your reception desk needs to have the telephone numbers of the health authorities, medical centres, public and private hospitals readily available in case a guest or employee falls ill.
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
- A full range of COVID19 supplies
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
