IHG Expands Cleaning Protocols at Hotels Worldwide

InterContinental Hotels Group has revealed the latest cleaning protocols that it is putting in place at properties around the world.

IHG has partnered with Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, to launch a global IHG Clean Promise designed to benefit staff and guests.

Keith Barr, Chief Executive Officer, IHG, said, “The future of travel may look different, but a safe, secure stay is fundamental to deliver true hospitality – and that will never change. By combining IHG’s world-class knowledge and processes, with cutting-edge expertise from Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, we can reassure guests and colleagues that we’re focused on protecting their health and wellbeing. This includes looking at where technology can make a difference, deploying enhanced, highly visible and more frequent cleaning measures, and different approaches to food and beverage, all underpinned by our new IHG Clean Promise.”

The IHG Way of Clean programme was launched in 2015 and developed with Ecolab and Diversey, both world leaders in hygiene and cleaning technologies and services.

The programme is now being expanded with additional COVID19 protocols and best practices - many of which are already in place - to reflect the advice of the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and local public health authorities in markets around the world.

IHG Way of Clean already includes deep cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants and going forward guests can expect to see evolved procedures in every area of the hotel, which may include:

Reception: Reduced contact at check-in, touchless transactions, front-desk screens, sanitiser stations, sanitised key cards and paperless checkout.

Guest Rooms: Visible verification of sanitised items (e.g., glassware, remote control), reduction of in-room furnishings/high-touch items, new laundry protocols and use of new technology.

Public Spaces and Facilities: Additional deep cleaning of high-touch surfaces, social distancing, "last cleaned" charts, best practices for pools, fitness centres and lounges.

Food & Beverage: New standards and service approach to buffets, banquets, room service and catering.

IHG is working with a team of medical experts at the Cleveland Clinic to develop guidance and resources for hotel teams on returning to work and keeping guests safe in this new environment, which may include:

- Cleanliness information in hotels and on IHG’s booking channels;

- Social distancing operating procedures and signage;

- Guidance on the use of protective equipment as necessary by hotel colleagues;

- Updated colleague training and certification;

- Availability of individual guest amenity cleaning kits; and

- Hand sanitiser and disinfecting wipes available in guest rooms and at high-touch points throughout hotels.

IHG’s Clean Promise will begin rolling out globally from 1 June 2020.

See latest Travel News, Video Interviews, Podcasts and other news regarding: CCOVID19, IHG.