Chambermaid carrying linen in hotel bedroom, low angle view

IEHA, a Division of ISSA, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) William F. Harrah College of Hospitality (HCOH) have agreed to partner on research to assist hotel housekeepers. The organizations will work together to further shared goals of research-driven education for directors of housekeeping in hotels, casinos, cruise ships, and similar venues worldwide.

"The work of directors of housekeeping and room attendants is crucial to guest satisfaction and hotel success," notes Michael Patterson, IEHA executive director. "We aim to support this vital work through research and related IEHA education that helps both executive housekeepers and line workers find a greater sense of accomplishment in their work, while improving cleanliness, health, and business outcomes."

Dr. Stowe Shoemaker, dean of HCOH added: "As part of our strategic goals, our college aims to serve as a thought leader for the hospitality industry — analyzing challenges the industry faces and identifying solutions. Through this partnership with IEHA, our college is providing educational tools to help housekeeping executives and employees work through challenges and achieve greater success in their careers."

This partnership will involve a needs, attitudes, and awareness assessment of both IEHA and non-IEHA hotel members to conceptualize and tailor education to meet challenges such as:

• Reducing injuries among housekeepers
• Producing a clean, healthy guest environment
• Incorporating high-performance, labor-saving methods
• Raising the status of the profession
• Meeting other business goals.

Additionally, HCOH faculty will speak at IEHA educational sessions this November, at ISSA Show North America 2019 in Las Vegas. Drs. Dina Zemke and Amanda Belarmino from HCOH will present the results of IEHA's recent study, conducted by UNLV. The study explored executive housekeepers and housekeeping managers' experiences in the industry and their commitment to the profession, as well as perceived organizational support.