What steps can you take to ensure your hospitality employees meet health and safety standards?

1 Assess the risks

The first step is to identify and evaluate the potential risks and hazards that your employees may face in their work. This could include physical, chemical, biological, or psychological factors, such as slips and falls, food poisoning, fire, stress, or violence. You can use a risk assessment template or tool to help you document and prioritize the risks, and to determine the appropriate control measures to reduce or eliminate them.

2 Provide training

The second step is to provide adequate and relevant training for your employees on health and safety topics. This could include general awareness, specific procedures, emergency response, personal protective equipment, or hygiene practices. You can use various methods, such as online courses, workshops, videos, manuals, or posters, to deliver the training. However, you should also ensure that the training is engaging, interactive, and tailored to the needs and levels of your employees.

3 Monitor performance

The third step is to monitor and evaluate the performance of your employees on health and safety matters. This could include conducting regular inspections, audits, or surveys, to check if the standards are being followed and the control measures are effective. You can also use indicators, such as accident reports, incident rates, or customer feedback, to measure the outcomes and impacts of your health and safety efforts. You should also provide constructive feedback, recognition, or corrective actions to your employees based on the results.

4 Motivate compliance

The fourth step is to motivate and encourage your employees to comply with the health and safety standards. This could include creating a positive and supportive culture, where health and safety is valued and respected by everyone. You can also use incentives, rewards, or recognition programs, to acknowledge and appreciate the achievements and contributions of your employees. You should also involve and consult your employees in the health and safety decision-making process, to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

5 Update policies

The fifth step is to update and review your health and safety policies and procedures regularly, to ensure that they are current and relevant. This could include incorporating new laws, regulations, or guidelines, that affect your hospitality business. You can also use feedback, suggestions, or best practices, from your employees, customers, or industry peers, to improve and enhance your health and safety standards. You should also communicate and disseminate any changes or updates to your employees clearly and promptly.

6 Seek support

The sixth step is to seek external support or advice, if you need help or guidance on health and safety issues. This could include consulting experts, professionals, or organizations, that specialize in health and safety matters for the hospitality sector. You can also join networks, forums, or associations, that offer resources, information, or assistance on health and safety topics. You should also be aware of your rights and obligations as an employer, and comply with the relevant laws and regulations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?