Hotel Reception

Introduction

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 says that employers have a duty of care to the health and safety of all employees and visitors in the workplace.  It also places a Duty of Care on all workers for themselves and for others, emphasising that safe working practices should always be followed so as not to endanger others in the workplace. 

The Act makes it obligatory for all organizations to have at least one member of staff with a knowledge of first aid.  A receptionist, being at the centre of activity, is in a very good position to render first aid and it is often an excellent idea for potential receptionists to take a course in first aid at the local St John Ambulance.  Certificates are awarded to candidates who have attended a course of theoretical and practical work and who have passed a special examination which tests their knowledge and skills.  The certificate is valid for three years which ensures that the first aid officers are regularly examined and kept up-to-date in knowledge and skill.

Another aspect of safety in the workplace is the promotion of fire safety.  Again the receptionist should have full knowledge of procedures in case of fire and be aware of the areas where fire could break out and the location of the various types of extinguisher.

The reception area, being the nerve centre of any hotel, is the obvious place to report and record any accident or incident.  The receptionist, therefore, should be well versed in dealing with all incidents in a calm and efficient way so as to minimise risk and disruption, and follow the required procedures when recording and reporting incidents.

Another important aspect of the receptionist's varied role.  To find out more about health and safety requirements in the workplace, and to complete this module, choose the folowing elements:  

Maintaining a Safe and Secure Environment              First Aid                Fire Safety