Sandals has introduced enhanced hygiene measures as it expects changing expectations from customers after the coronavirus pandemic.
Its Sandals’ Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness includes an “all-encompassing 18-touchpoint practice” based on research of all point of guest contact – and will be introduced at all 15 Sandals and three Beaches Resorts and during travel.
“At Sandals Resorts, cleanliness and safety have always been priority number one. Our loyal guests and incredible team members are part of the Sandals family, and we take care of our family. Their health and safety are our focus.” said Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, founder and chairman of Sandals Resorts. “We want our guests to not have to worry about a thing so they can enjoy the Luxury Included holiday they’ve trusted in time and time again. We’re doing everything we can to offer peace of mind during a time that has been difficult for the entire world, and that is why we have continued to evolve our protocols to maintain an even safer, healthier stay.”
Touchpoints include the airport lounge; guest transfers to and from resort; guest rooms, food and beverage experiences; housekeeping and laundry; elite services including butler service and Club Sandals Concierge; maintenance; resort activities such as water sports; elevators; swimming pools, jacuzzis and spas; team members access points; fitness centres and the Red Lane Spa; public bathrooms; suppliers and receiving; all public areas including lobbies and beaches; back of house facilities such as store rooms and offices; Kids Camps and waterparks at Beaches Resorts; and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
The 18-point plan includes an enhanced system for cleaning and sanitising check-in, a new certification for sanitised guest rooms, online check-in to avoid the front desk, mor airport transfers so less people per vehicle, social distancing in restaurants, bars and beaches, replacing handshakes with a nod and a smile and restricting elevator access to one couple per trip at Sandals Resorts and one family per trip at Beaches Resorts and staff taking alternative routes.
Staff will have specialised training on precautionary measures and have their temperatures checked before each shift. They will be required to know where the nearest hand sanitiser stations are at all times, must wear protective face gear and gloves at all times and ensure uniforms are not worn during travel to and from work.
All vendors, suppliers and partners will be held to the new Sandals’ Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness standards by restricting delivery windows to one party at a time, while limiting physical contact; sanitising all touch points, including equipment, storage spaces and access areas; and removing all outer packing upon arrival.