The hospitality industry of Australia is an important part of the national economy, generating more than $50 billion in annual revenue and providing jobs for nearly a million people. By optimising cleaning procedures throughout the industry, millions more Australians will benefit from more hygienic dining and lodging experiences, which in turn will positively impact national health.
As people come to terms with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitality customers are looking for reassurance that the businesses they visit are safe. Visible cleaning and maintenance procedures help to ensure that everyone feels comfortable dining in restaurants, visiting pubs and staying in hotels.
Having the right cleaning equipment not only improves standards of cleanliness but also reduces the risk of employee injury and increases customer satisfaction.
Reducing the spread of infectious materials
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the public's perception of what it means for a space to be sanitary. Customers may not feel comfortable entering spaces that they routinely visited just months previously. To protect customers and provide them with greater peace of mind, Safe Work Australia has released detailed guidance on cleaning and disinfecting workplaces.
To properly follow these guidelines, cleaning staff need durable, reliable equipment. For example, high-capacity cleaning carts ensure that staff have everything they need to fully sanitise rooms without needing to make several trips to restock on supplies. In addition, microfibre cloths allow for complete sanitisation of hard surfaces, where germs and viruses are most likely to remain after contact with an infected person. Staff can dispose of the cloths after use, preventing further points of contact with potentially infectious materials.
Visibility of cleaning procedures is highly important to helping guests feel comfortable. Safety signs and mobile barriers can block off potentially contaminated areas until they can be properly sanitised. Vibrant yellow signage stands out in any environment, letting guests know that the business is taking care of its cleaning responsibilities.
Preventing ergonomic issues
When cleaning staff have the right equipment and are trained in its proper use, their risk of musculoskeletal disorders decreases. Considering workplace injuries and disease cost the Australian economy roughly $61.8 billion annually, there is a clear need for better workplace safety education.
Tools like Rubbermaid Commercial Products® Smart App help cleaning staff get around-the-clock access to educational resources that enable them to use their equipment safely. For example, learning the 8-sided fold technique when using cleaning rags can prevent contact with materials that can cause infection or an allergic reaction. Similarly, reminders about correct sweeping and mopping posture can greatly reduce the risk of muscle aches and strains.
Improving customer satisfaction
High standards of cleanliness have always been an important pillar of customer service in the hospitality industry. Now, those standards will be held to a greater level of scrutiny. A single instance of noncompliance with cleaning policies could cause irreparable damage to a hospitality brand. Having the right equipment and training is essential to ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness are upheld.
Businesses large and small need reliable and efficient commercial cleaning solutions. Learn more about Rubbermaid's line of durable, commercial-grade products and innovative solutions.
