Hotel Housekeepers and Occupational Health: Experiences and Perceived Risks

Abstract Background: Hotel housekeepers are the second most important occupational group within tourism hotel sector; various health problems related to their job have been described, above all musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study is to understand the experiences and perceptions of hotel housekeepers and key informants from the Balearic Islands (Spain) regarding occupational health conditions, the strategies employed to mitigate them and the social context in which they occur. Methods: A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was carried out. Six focus groups with hotel housekeepers and 10 semi-structured interviews with key informants were conducted. Next, we carried out a content analysis. Results: Hotel housekeepers reported musculoskeletal disorders, anxiety and stress as main occupational health problems; health professionals underscored the physical problems. Hotel housekeepers perceived that their work (characterized by being physically demanding and with repetitive movements) caused their health conditions. To solve health issues, they used medication, mostly anti-inflammatory agents and painkillers and, to a lesser extent, sedatives and anxiolytics, which allowed them to continue working; health public services, which they generally rated as satisfactory; personal protective equipment; ergonomics (with difficulties due to high work pace and hotel facilities) and physical activity. Two contrasting attitudes were identified regarding sick leave: HHs who refused to accept a doctor-prescribed sick leave (due to fear of being fired, sense of responsibility, downplaying their pain...), and those who accepted it (because they could not continue working, they prioritised health before work). Conclusion: Our results might contribute to plan improvement strategies to address health problems among hotel housekeepers, to improve the attention received in primary care settings as well as their working condition.