TUI has introduced a 10-point plan of safety measures and standards for hotel operations post COVID-19. With plans of reopening TUI Hotels, this set of measures are to be implemented to ensure the safety of guests and deliver the highest hygiene standards for holidaymakers.
The new plan is a part of a more comprehensive package of measures covering all of tour operator’s services, retail, flights and transfers to hotel stays, local excursions and cruises. The new standards will be implemented in the TUI hotel brands as well as made available to the group’s joint venture and hotel partners.
Customer surveys clearly indicate that safety and hygiene will be of paramount importance for holidaymakers after the lockdown. With our Group-wide, integrated health and safety management system, we can ensure that our hotels meet guests’ high expectations and offer the best possible protection against infections during these unusual times. We are laying the foundations for an agile and safe return to business so we can be ready to offer our unique holiday experiences again as soon as possible.”
Sebastian Ebel, member of the Group Executive Board responsible for Holiday Experiences
The 10-point plan comprises of hotel organisation, capacity planning, hygiene measures, and intensive training of staff members.
According to the new plan, online check-in will be made available, employees are required to maintain a distance of 1.5 to 02 meters between them and guests, and staff will work together in fixed teams in order to reconstruct possible infection chains.
The capacity at restaurants will be significantly reduced and the tables would be set at a minimum distance of 1.5 meters apart. In order to provide enough space for guests, the opening hours of restaurants and other hotel facilities will also be extended. When it comes to sports, only events involving a small number of participants without close contact will be available such as Golf or tennis. However, sports like football tournaments will not be available. Furthermore, spa services will be adapted and childcare will be organised according to the new standards.
When it comes to hygiene and disinfection, the number of disinfectant dispensers will be increased so that the guests and employees can disinfect their hands at all significant contact points. An extensive new cleaning strategy will be in place where each room will be thoroughly deep cleaned before the arrival of a guest as well as during guest change over. Moreover, self-service offers like buffets will be reduced to a minimum, and where possible, food and beverage will be served by staff wearing protective masks.
In addition to the statutory regulations of respective destinations, extensive training will be provided to the TUI employees in their own hotels. TUI launched the comprehensive training and inspection programme with the leading hygiene and safety consultancy Cristal International Standards. This includes training materials, webinars, checklists and customer information.
With these strong safety precautions in place, TUI guarantees the highest standards of safety for those looking to enjoy a much needed holiday post COVID-19.
