Singapore, 15 September 2020 – WorldHotels, a global brand representing over 250 of the finest independent hotels around the world, has introduced a new set of health and safety standards with We Care Clean. Based upon guidance provided by global health and safety organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), We Care Clean is a global initiative that allows guests to stay at WorldHotels properties knowing that each hotel has implemented industry-leading cleaning standards, best practices and protocols.
Under We Care Clean, each WorldHotels property must achieve and maintain the highest standards of quality and safety. From enhanced sanitation procedures to measures for guaranteeing social distancing, each property will follow the ten-point guideline as stated below:
1. Front Desk and Lobby
At the front desk and lobby, new protocols aim to minimize guest contact with personnel through a streamlined check-in and check-out process. Social distancing measures will be implemented, and bell service may be offered, with bell staff wearing all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and deliver luggage only to the guest room entrance door. Bell staff will not enter the guestroom.
2. Valet Parking
For the foreseeable future, self-parking will be encouraged. For valet only hotels, a queuing experience will be implemented to allow for proper social distancing while valet stands will be disinfected hourly. Attendants will wear masks and gloves and utilize new gloves with each vehicle. Attendants will also disinfect the vehicle door, keys, steering wheel, and gear shift upon returning the vehicle to the owner.
3. Guests Rooms and Housekeeping
Enhanced and thorough cleaning protocols will be implemented in guest rooms. If possible, guest rooms will not be entered for 24 hours after check-out, at which time the room, linens and all touch points, for example, door handles, light switches, faucets, thermostats, telephones, television remotes, clocks and hangers will be cleaned with chemicals aimed at killing COVID-19. For guest and employee safety and well-being, daily housekeeping service will be by request and all guest room linens and laundry to be washed and sanitized with chemicals that kill the COVID-19 virus, and at temperatures that likewise kill the virus.
4. Food and Beverage
Restaurants must comply with local regulations, with public dining spaces closing where and when required to avoid unnecessary guest congregation. Enhanced ‘Grab & Go’ offerings will be implemented in many hotels providing guests with pre-packaged food and beverage options. In addition, hotels kitchens will be deep cleaned and disinfected regularly with food preparation stations being sanitized before and after each use. All operations and capacities will adhere to local ordinances and guidelines and staff must wear all required PPE as required by local guidelines.
5. Public Amenities
Public amenities such as fitness centres and swimming pools 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. Guests are required to wipe down the fitness equipment after each use while hand sanitizer or wipes will be provided for guests and employees.
6. Gift/Sundry Shops
Gift shops may remain open only if permitted by local ordinances and guidelines. Social distancing measures will be implemented, and staff will wear PPE, both masks and gloves.
7. Spa
Spas, salons, retail and hydrothermal amenities will follow all local, state and federal guidelines relating to sanitation and cleanliness. Pre-shift touchless temperature checks will be required for all associates and service providers who will wear personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves, and protective garments, as appropriate. All PPE will be changed after each treatment. There will be an increased visibility and frequency of safety and cleanliness practices throughout operational hours, with self-serve beverage and snack options to be replaced with single-serve options only.
8. Concierge/ Executive Level
Concierge/Executive levels will remain open only if permitted by local ordinances and guidelines. The food and beverage offerings, if provided, will only be individually packaged food and beverage products for guest safety.
9. Meeting/ Banquet Facilities
When allowed, meetings and events will comply with all local governance recommendations, such as social distancing requirements and capacity limitations, to ensure that meetings and events are safe and protected. Each evening, meeting and banquet facilities will be sanitized, for example with electrostatic fogging, ozone generators or ultraviolet devices; and hand sanitizer or wipes will be provided for guests and employees.
10. Hotel Employees and Staff Requirements
Hotel employees will follow strict, enforced guidelines, including the use of PPE, and frequent and stringent hand-washing protocols. Employee workstations will be cleaned and disinfected after every shift and 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. Staff meetings will also include training on social distancing requirements, the use of PPE, and cleaning and sanitizing protocols.
Detailed information on We Care Clean can be found here:
https://www.worldhotels.com/content/luxury-hotels/en_US/notice/we-care-clean.html
