As resorts focus on keeping their owners and guests COVID-19 safe, it’s important that they take extra steps and re-examine how resort employees are protected in this new environment.

There is a wealth of information and guidance available to resorts regarding cleaning protocols. And many of the leading hospitality brands have worked with professional cleaning providers and developed specific programs and guidelines for their staff to follow.

However, it’s not just about keeping staff safe from COVID-19. It is also important to protect resort employees and keep them safe from injury and harm. Here are some fundamental top safety tips:

• Make sure employees are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour;
• Don’t hand out apartment keys without ID; and
• Monitor prohibited spaces and keep exits locked.

Prioritise knowing everyone

Make sure your staff know each other. They may not know their names, but they should recognise faces. It is then easier to spot someone who shouldn’t be there.

This fosters a culture of trust and support with everyone looking out for each other.

Check visitor credentials

Anyone who comes on-site for work such as contractors, florists, temporary staff should have their credentials checked. Make sure that all employees understand this protocol.

Identify hazards

Systems should be in place to ensure all staff, owner and visitors identify, report and act on hazards quickly and effectively.

Learn the evacuation plan

Evacuation plans are designed for each floor and different scenarios. Make sure employees know the plans and can get themselves and guests to safety.

Take a break

Shifts are long so make sure that your staff don’t make mistakes that jeopardise their safety. Ensure they take regular breaks and have a snack.

Equipment training

Make sure all staff are correctly trained on the equipment they’ll be using in their role. Encourage them to report faulty equipment so that it can be fixed.

Follow basic housekeeping rules

Avoid slips, trips and falls by making sure any spills, glass and debris is cleaned up as quickly as possible.

Wear the right clothing and footwear

Slip-resistant, safe and comfortable footwear is essential for resort staff. And gloves, masks, visors, overalls, and headwear should be available.