Accommodations
Ensuring the safety of accommodations is a pivotal component of any corporate travel risk management program. As businesses increasingly send employees to diverse locations, the necessity to guarantee that all lodging adheres to stringent safety standards becomes paramount. This checklist is designed for business travelers to help assess and select accommodations that prioritize your safety and security. It includes key criteria such as compliance with local safety regulations, emergency preparedness, and robust health and security measures. Armed with this guide, you can feel confident and secure in your travel accommodations, focusing on your business objectives with peace of mind.
- Upon check-in and arrival at your hotel room, verify emergency procedures by physically checking that posted evacuation plans - often found on the back of the hotel room door - match the actual layout. Identify the closest exit to your room as a precaution in case of fire. Develop a plan to reach the exit under conditions of reduced visibility (smoke, darkness) by counting room doors, etc.
- Consider staging your clothes and essential items, such as passport, wallet, cellphone and a flashlight in case you need to evacuate quickly on short notice.
- Ensure you have both local emergency contact numbers and details of your organization's emergency assistance provider.
- Use the Do Not Disturb sign on your door, and, if available, digital privacy settings on hotel apps or room devices to maintain privacy and security.
- Use the deadbolt lock and security chain/bar on your room door.
- Consider bringing personal door alarms or portable locks for extra security with you.
- If someone knocks on your door, do not open your door without first verifying the identity of the person and by calling the front desk, if the person is unknown to you.
- Be cautious of people loitering in the hallways or following you onto the elevator. If in doubt – don't go to your room – return to the lobby and seek the assistance of hotel management.
- Do not leave valuable possessions or money lying around your room.
- Do not leave your luggage unattended in the hotel lobby, restaurant or other common areas.