FACTS

Here are some potential hazards associated with lockdown procedures in hospitality settings:

1. Communication Failures: Ineffective communication during a lockdown can lead to confusion, panic, and non-compliance with safety protocols, increasing the risk of harm to guests and staff.
2. Insufficient Training: Without regular and comprehensive training, staff may not know how to properly implement lockdown procedures, leading to delays or errors in response.
3. Inadequate Security Measures: Inadequate security infrastructure or planning can compromise the effectiveness of a lockdown, potentially allowing threats to access secure areas.
4. Evacuation Challenges: In large or complex hospitality venues, ensuring that all guests are accounted for and safely evacuated or secured can be challenging, especially if there are mobility-impaired individuals or language barriers.
5. Psychological Stress: Lockdown situations can be highly stressful and traumatic for guests and staff, potentially leading to long-term psychological impacts.
6. Access Control: Properly controlling access to and from the property is crucial during a lockdown. Failure to do so can exacerbate the situation by allowing threats to enter or preventing help from reaching those inside.
7. Emergency Supplies: Lack of access to emergency supplies, like medical kits or food and water, during prolonged lockdowns can create additional risks, especially for vulnerable individuals.

STATS

• Lockdowns and restrictions have significantly impacted the revenue of businesses in the hospitality sector. According to data from Statista, global hotel industry revenue dropped by over 50% in 2020 compared to the previous year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns.
• Lockdown measures have led to temporary closures and, in some cases, permanent closures of hospitality establishments. A report by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) estimated that nearly 70% of hotel employees in the United States were laid off or furloughed at the peak of the pandemic, and thousands of hotels were at risk of foreclosure without additional government support.
• Lockdowns and restrictions led to temporary closures and, in some cases, permanent closures of hospitality establishments across Canada. Data from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) indicated that nearly one in six (17%) hospitality businesses in Canada were at risk of permanent closure due to the pandemic as of early 2021.
• The hospitality sector in Canada experienced significant job losses during the pandemic. According to Statistics Canada, employment in accommodation and food services decreased by over 40% from February to April 2020, representing the largest decline among all industries in the country.