Hotels Adapting Cleaning Processes in Response to Corona Virus
Hotels and resorts throughout the world are rethinking and adjusting their cleaning processes and procedures in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. One hotelier, Best Western, has shared their updated protocol with AAA Travel.
The hotelier has expanded on those industry-leading cleaning standards with the launch of the new Best Western We Care Clean program.
Based upon guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Health Canada, the We Care Clean program addresses everything from guest room and common area cleanliness, to streamlined processes that minimize contact between guests and associates while maintaining the customer service you expect from a Best Western-branded hotel.
Members staying at Best Western locations will quickly notice changes, such as the installation of social distancing floor decals. However, many updates are applied behind the scenes, such as their enforcement of heightened and comprehensive cleanliness standards.
The We Care Clean program addresses five key areas in Best Western hotels:
Front Desk and Lobby:
Check-in and check-out process now includes a Mobile Concierge platform
Social distancing measures will be implemented
Best practices signs prominently posted
Lobby brochures, magazines and papers removed.
Sanitizing stations or wipes will be available throughout hotel
Guest Room and Housekeeping:
Enhanced and thorough cleaning protocols implemented
When possible, guest rooms will not be entered for 24 to 72 hours after check-out
Upon cleaners entering, linens, and all touchpoints, will be cleaned with chemicals aimed at killing COVID-19.
Unnecessary items removed from guest rooms, such as decorative pillows, bed scarves, paper notepads and pens.
For guest and employee safety and well-being, daily housekeeping service will be by request.
Temporary Breakfast Offerings:
Breakfast offerings that comply with local regulations, with breakfast rooms closed where required
Enhanced ‘Grab & Go’ offerings with pre-packaged food and beverage options
Hotels may opt to provide a “served” or pre-plated breakfast to minimize guest contact
Hand Sanitizer stations
Public Amenities:
When allowed to open, public amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools and meeting rooms will be cleaned on closely monitored schedules with disinfecting chemicals. Each evening, these areas may also be sanitized with the use of electrostatic fogging, ozone generators or ultraviolet devices (once available).
Hotel Employees and Staff Requirements:
Hotel employees will follow strict guidelines, including utilizing Personal Protective Equipment, frequent and stringent hand-washing protocols, and housekeepers/laundry staff will wear both gloves and a mask. Employee workstations will be cleaned and disinfected after every shift.
Employees will be empowered to stay home if unwell, communicate their potential exposure to COVID-19 with management, and will be fully educated on how to maintain a safe and clean home.
AAA Travel Agents are available to help you find the right hotel, and navigate through state and national restrictions. To speak to a AAA Travel Counselor call 1-800-222-7448.