Hotels owe a high duty of care to their guests and should do everything reasonably possible to ensure the premises is safe. Some areas requiring special attention include:

1. Swimming Pools

Swimming pools are a great attraction to lure in guests, but they must be handled with special care. Swimming pools create an additional liability exposure on your property, for both guests and workers. Some areas of concern include:

• Slips and falls. The areas surrounding a pool may become slick and present the potential for slips and falls.
• Equipment injuries. AA-required lifts can be a dangerous attraction to children who may try to climb the equipment.
• Chemical injuries and storage. The chemicals used for the pool can cause injuries like chemical burns and skin irritations.
• Water temperature. Water temperatures that are too low can have a dangerous effect on both swimmers and the chemical balance of the pool.

Appropriate controls should be in place to monitor and control swimming areas. Some recommendations include adding signage to the swimming area, installing surveillance cameras, and writing out safety procedures for employees.

2. Broken Furniture

Hotels experience high foot traffic and over time furniture can break down due to overuse. It’s important to inspect furniture regularly to ensure it is suitable for use, making sure there are no broken leg(s) or sharp, jagged edges. It is inadvisable to make in-house repairs to furniture, as injuries that result from failed repairs may exacerbate your hotel’s liability.

3. Slip and Fall Hazards

Slips and falls are a leading cause of losses in hotels. Evaluate your hotel for elevation changes and consider adding warnings for guests and employees. Also ensure floor coverings are in good condition; there should be no curled or buckled edges on mats at entrances and exits. Sidewalks, driveways and parking lots should be well-lit, clear of any snow or ice, and free of unrepaired cracks or potholes. Balcony platforms should be inspected regularly for structural integrity and strength.

4. Bedbugs

Damage from bedbugs can quickly go from bad to worse. Early detection is key to minimizing potential losses. Your housekeeping crew should inspect rooms and bedding daily for any signs of bed bugs and follow a rapid-response plan if there is in fact an infestation.

5. Burns

Your staff should monitor water heater thermostats on a regular basis to ensure they are set to an appropriate level that will not scald employees or guests. Most experts recommend a setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid scalding.

Safety in your hotel is a win-win! It will encourage good business and keep your guests coming back to a place they can feel safe staying. While you may try your best, accidents can still happen. A comprehensive business insurance policy can help protect your hotel from a variety of property and liability exposures.