Hotel housekeepers face substantial injury risks

Hotel housekeepers face substantial injury risks

Hotel housekeepers play an important role in maintaining the cleanliness and comfort of hotels for guests. However, their job comes with numerous work-related injury risks.

By addressing these challenges and prioritizing safety measures, hotel owners and managers can create a safer and healthier work environment for their valued housekeeping staff.

Musculoskeletal strain

Hotel housekeepers engage in physically demanding activities, such as lifting heavy mattresses, pushing heavy carts and bending or kneeling to clean low surfaces. These repetitive motions may cause musculoskeletal strains and injuries over time. These risks increase when workers fail to use proper lifting techniques.

Slip-and-fall accidents

Housekeepers often work in wet environments, such as bathrooms and kitchens, where slippery surfaces are common. Accidents involving slips and falls are a significant concern. The resulting injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries.

Exposure to hazardous chemicals

Certain chemicals used to clean hotel rooms may cause respiratory issues, skin irritation and eye problems, especially when workers face prolonged exposure to them. Without adequate protective gear or training, housekeepers may be at risk of chemical-related health problems.

Repetitive stress injuries

Many housekeeping tasks are repetitive in nature. Making beds, vacuuming and scrubbing surfaces can lead to repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries can cause chronic pain and discomfort.

Per UNITE HERE, hotel workers have injury rates that are 40% higher than that seen by other service-sector workers. Of all hotel workers, housekeepers face the highest injury risks, highlighting a need for more injury prevention in the industry.