VI.SAFETY & SECURITY HOSPITALITY OPERATIONS
Large and small, are extremely susceptible to security hazards. The very nature of the operation which involves the
presence of a wide range of people, most of whom are unknown, poses a considerable threat to the security of a
property. Risks of fire are also serious; the incidence of hotel fires causing loss of life and serious damage to
property has increased in recent years. Safety refers to the physical injuries in a work environment and security
refers to anticipation of theft, fire and other emergencies. The Occupational, Safety & Health Act (OSHA) was
enacted in 1970 to protect workers at workplace. OSHA standards covers work areas, sanitation, signs and tags, first
aid and blood borne pathogens, listing hazardous chemicals, labeling all chemical containers and developing written
hazard communication programmed. OSHA assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and
women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance. Security in
hotels is a broad task of protecting both people and assets. (Mc Millen. &Resister, 2006) observed their study that
environment, technology, human resource, operations and security are the complex set of challenges which cannot
be ignored by manager for being successful.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics deals with the study of body movement in relation to housekeeping profession during tasks performed
which has significant impact on work fatigues. Housekeeping is a physically demanding profession and work
environment has an impact on efficiency and comfort of the employees. Ergonomics is a scientific discipline which
deals with interaction between employees and the elements of their work system.
Employee Turnover and Retention
Employee retention or turnover of employees in hotel industry is a major challenge and it is even harder in
housekeeping department. It has got long work schedule, less compensation, physically demanding tasks, high
pressure environment and uncomfortable work culture which leads to high turnovers in housekeeping. Generally