Chapter S: Safety Systematic Risk

Safety

Safety involves preventing employees and customers within the hospitality property from potential death and injury, such as from accidental slips, falls, cuts, burns and so forth, as well as preventing related property damage (Enz and Taylor, 2002; Stipanuk, 2002). Hospitality organizations are semi-public places, which pose certain challenges for the safety of guests and employees. However, failing to provide a safe environment can be costly monetarily, in terms of reputation, as well as in the time required to deal with the consequences. After the events of September 11, 2001, the issue of safety has become more important. However, apart from terrorist attacks, hospitality organizations have many concerns about safety such as fires, food poisoning, infectious diseases, accidents, problems with electronic equipment, physical attacks on guests and employees. Certain safety issues need to be considered for bedrooms, baths, lifts, kitchens, restaurants, bars, discos, casinos, lobbies, swimming pools, sport areas, etc. In order to improve safety, hospitality organizations now install electronic locks, fire sprinklers, smoke detectors, and closed-circuit televisions. However, providing safety requires extensive and ongoing investment, training, and the improvement of physical conditions. Having regular fire drills and providing inductive and ongoing safety training for employees can be helpful. Special signs and written information on safety issues such as fire should be provided for both guests and employees.