A report on ergonomic and psychosocial conditions in the Canary Islands’ hotel sector reveals that only 12% of hotels have installed adjustable beds, and while the use of motorised cleaning trolleys is on the rise, it remains uncommon. This study, presented on Wednesday by the Minister for Tourism and Employment, Jessica de León, was conducted in 121 three, four, and five-star hotels. It will soon be extended to other types of accommodation, with the aim of integrating its findings into the forthcoming revision of tourism regulations.
De León emphasised that much work remains in occupational risk prevention, particularly in departments with heavy workloads or high accident rates, such as housekeeping or kitchens.
Meanwhile, the Director General of Labour, José Ramón Rodríguez, highlighted that 88% of hotels have staff dedicated to prevention, but a third have not received the essential basic training. He stressed that such training is “crucial” for the proper execution of their roles.
The study also reveals that housekeeping staff are the most assessed in terms of labour risks. However, only a third of hotels have conducted time studies for their tasks, and less than half have set a limit on rooms per day. Additionally, workers often do not participate in specific risk assessments, as they are not included in the procedure.
In terms of psychosocial aspects, there is a gradual improvement in risk management, extending to more roles and lower category hotels. Nevertheless, 50% of establishments have yet to carry out specific assessments in this regard.
Elirerto Galván, Director of the Canarian Institute of Labour Safety (Icasel), noted that preventive organisational measures are on the rise, particularly in five-star hotels, though they remain below those focused on training and information. Following psychosocial risk assessments, only 48% of hotels have planned preventive measures, and a mere 20% have verified their effectiveness.
Regarding protocols against violence, those most developed relate to sexual harassment and gender-based harassment, while those for psychological and external violence are still scarce, especially in three-star hotels, despite the staff’s constant contact with guests.
Lastly, the report points out that 54% of hotels have implemented specific health surveillance protocols through medical checks, with no significant differences between hotel categories.
