Fire remains one of the costliest losses for a hotel. A simple checklist to take stock before guests arrive.
In a hotel, a fire puts at risk people who do not know the premises, often at night. Prevention is therefore as much a moral duty as a way of limiting damage and the length of a closure.
Six checks to carry out
- Escape routes and emergency exits: clear, signposted, with working emergency lighting.
- Fire detection: detectors tested and maintained, alarm audible in all areas.
- Extinguishing equipment: extinguishers inspected and accessible, staff trained to use them.
- Kitchens: hoods and filters cleaned, deep fryers protected, cooking equipment checked.
- Electrical installations: periodic inspection, no overloaded sockets or extension leads, technical rooms kept clear.
- Organisation: up-to-date evacuation instructions, regular drills, maintenance log kept.
Don’t forget insurance
In many cantons, fire insurance for the building is handled by a cantonal institution. Furniture, stock and above all business interruption, however, must be insured separately. A closure of several months can cost far more than the physical damage itself.
An on-site audit documents the state of protections, prioritises actions and often allows you to present a better risk profile to insurers.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not replace personalised advice.