Health & Wellbeing: A Guide for Employees in Tourism and Hospitality
Working in the tourism and hospitality sector can be both rewarding and demanding. From long hours on your feet to dealing with the physical and emotional stresses of the job, it’s important to take care of your health and well-being. This page is designed to help you stay healthy at work, prevent injuries, and support you if you face any health-related challenges.
This guide provides an overview of health & wellbeing services, your rights as an employee, and the resources available to help you maintain good health in the workplace.
What are occupational health services?
Occupational health services focus on the physical and mental well-being of employees in the workplace. In the tourism and hospitality sector, where the work environment can be fast-paced and physically demanding, occupational health services play a crucial role in:
Preventing work-related injuries or illnesses: Ensuring that the workplace is safe and that you have access to proper equipment and breaks.
Supporting employees with health conditions: If you have a medical condition, occupational health services can help identify adjustments that allow you to continue working safely and comfortably.
Promoting overall health and well-being: Encouraging healthy work practices, such as regular breaks, correct posture, and stress management.
Why occupational health services services are important in tourism and hospitality
Tourism and hospitality jobs often involve physically taxing tasks, such as lifting heavy items, standing for long periods, or working late shifts. It’s common for workers to experience issues like back pain, stress, or fatigue. occupational health services aim to reduce the risk of these problems by promoting safer work environments and supporting employees when health issues arise.
Some common risks in the hospitality industry include:
Musculoskeletal disorders: These can result from heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or standing for long hours.
Stress and mental health challenges: Fast-paced work environments, irregular shifts, and dealing with customers can lead to stress, anxiety, or burnout.
Slips, trips, and falls: Wet floors, cluttered workspaces, or improper footwear can lead to accidents.
What Are Your Rights?
As an employee in the UK, you have the right to work in an environment that is safe and promotes your health and well-being. Here’s what you are entitled to:
Safe Working Conditions: Your employer must follow health and safety regulations to ensure your workplace is safe. This includes providing proper equipment, safe working procedures, and ensuring regular breaks.
Health Support: If you have a health condition that affects your ability to work, your employer must make reasonable adjustments to support you. This could include changes to your work schedule, lighter duties, or special equipment.
Sick Leave: If you become ill or are injured at work, you are entitled to statutory sick pay, depending on your employment status and how long you’ve been with your employer.
How Occupational Health Can Help You
Occupational health services offer a range of support to employees, including:
Health Assessments: If you are returning to work after an illness or injury, an occupational health assessment can help determine what adjustments may be needed to ensure you can work safely.
Workplace Adjustments: Occupational health professionals can recommend adjustments to your tasks, tools, or work environment to make sure your job doesn’t negatively impact your health.
Mental Health Support: If you are experiencing stress or mental health issues, occupational health can provide support or refer you to counseling or other mental health services.
Preventive Advice: Occupational health services may offer advice on posture, ergonomics, and proper lifting techniques to prevent injuries before they occur.
Tips for Staying Healthy at Work
Manage Stress
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to your manager or seek support from occupational health services. Learning stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, can help you stay calm during busy shifts.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Long shifts can take a toll on your body. Make sure you stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up.
Report Health and Safety Concerns
If you notice any unsafe conditions, report them to your employer immediately. Whether it’s a slippery floor or insufficient rest breaks, raising concerns early can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
Take Regular Breaks
Work in the hospitality and tourism sector can be intense, but it’s important to take short, regular breaks to rest your body and mind. This helps prevent fatigue and reduces the risk of injury.
Practice Good Posture
Whether you’re standing at a reception desk or lifting heavy trays, maintaining good posture can prevent back, neck, and shoulder pain. Make sure to use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
What to Do If You Have a Health Concern?
If you have a health issue that affects your ability to work, or if you’re worried about workplace conditions, don’t hesitate to speak up. Here’s what you can do:
Speak to your employer: Discuss your concerns with your manager or HR department. They can make adjustments to help you stay healthy at work.
Access occupational health services: If your employer offers occupational health services, take advantage of them. They can provide professional advice and support.
Seek legal advice if necessary: If you feel your rights are being ignored or if you’ve suffered an injury at work, organisations like Citizens Advice can offer free legal advice on workplace rights.
Where can you get support?
There are numerous organisations that can offer valuable support and practical advice if you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace.
Scottish Women’s Rights Centre (SWRC) - SWRC supports women aged 16 and over who have been affected by violence and various forms of abuse in Scotland. SWRC can be easily contacted through their dedicated helpline or via their convenient online form, and they can provide vital assistance, including legal advice, representation, and advocacy support to help navigate your situation effectively.
Equality and Human Rights Commission - Equality and Human Rights Commission’s “Sexual harassment and harassment at work: technical guidance” can help you understand the law and what employers should do to prevent harassment and victimisation.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment happens when a worker faces unwanted sexual behavior, creating a threatening or degrading environment. This misconduct can harm the workplace and employees' well-being. Examples of sexual harassment include:
Sexual Comments or Jokes: Remarks with sexual meanings that can offend and make employees uncomfortable.
Sexual Gestures: Inappropriate body language, like winking or suggestive looks, that is unwelcome.
Propositions and Advances: Direct or indirect attempts to engage in sexual activity, which can create an unsafe situation.
Social Media Harassment: Sending sexual messages or images online that intimidate or humiliate, affecting personal lives beyond work.
Spreading Rumors: Gossip with sexual implications that can harm someone's reputation and create a toxic workplace.
Unwanted Touching: Any physical contact that is not consented to, leading to feelings of violation and fear.
Identifying these behaviors is essential for maintaining a safe and respectful workplace. Both employees and employers should recognize the signs and take steps to prevent and handle sexual harassment.