During the last couple of weeks, we have all been on the same rollercoaster. We have been receiving hourly news updates with the latest developments regarding COVID-19. We understand that it can sometimes be difficult to keep track of the latest rules and measures our governments publish, especially since these differ per country.
We are here to help you filter through the maze of information and create a clear overview. We will list what measures you can take to secure a safe environment for both your guests and employees.
Ground rules to avoid an infection
Let us have a look at the ground rules to effectively battle the Coronavirus. The measures below have been universally implemented across almost all countries for hospitality organizations and are not difficult to implement in your hotel or restaurant.
- Personal hygiene: Employees should wash their hands thoroughly with disinfectant soap every hour and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. When sneezing or coughing, one should do so on the inside of their elbow and use paper tissues only. For departments where it is applicable, wear rubber gloves. The organization should facilitate access points for hand sanitizer gel for all employees.
- Social distancing: Where possible, employees should keep 1.5 meters distance between themselves and guests and/or coworkers. If an employee has a weaker immune system or is pregnant, this person should stay at home preventively.
- Symptoms: If an employee has a persistent cough or fever, this person should stay at home and inform all people he/she has been in close contact with.
- Cleaning: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks, to name a few.
- Information flow: As a hospitality establishment, it is your duty to ensure your employees and guests are up to date about the situation in your area. Read our articles about communication with guests and communication with employees during these daring times.
Official information channels
Our governments and local news channels have been working tirelessly in order to protect their inhabitants to the best of their ability. These are some of the channels that are being used to secure an up to date information flow, listed per country.
Universal
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Germany
Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung
Austria
Switzerland
Stick to the rules
The rules and measures to combat the Coronavirus have been laid out. It is now up to each individual to adhere to them and collectively work towards overcoming this crisis. If one thing has become clear, it is that a single person cannot stop this on his/her own. We must all shift towards feeling a shared responsibility during times like these. Together, we can conquer the situation and will hopefully come out stronger.
