Security And Risk Management In Hotels

Security and risk management have become an important part of the hospitality industry today, particularly after the 9/11 US and 26/11 Mumbai attacks. November brings back the memories of the havoc created by terrorists in Mumbai 10 years ago. On completion of a decade of the dastardly deed Ashok Malkani examines whether the industry still continues to maintain the same alacrity in maintaining safety and security of the property, as well as the guests.

This November, as the hospitality industry remembers and recalls the horror of 26/11 in Mumbai, it double-checks to see that all security measures are in place. The 26/11 terrorist attack, when 166 people were killed in the twin attacks on the Taj Mahal Hotel and Trident Oberoi in Mumbai, have changed the perception of the hospitality sector regarding their vulnerability to such attacks and security incidents. Today one of the biggest jobs of hotel management is securitizing the facility, protecting customers, visitors and staff, and protecting the property. With people coming and going all night and literally thousands of access keys out at a time that can get people in and out of the building, hotel security can be a Herculean task.

Almost all five star hotels in Mumbai have installed barricades which have to be lowered for the vehicles to enter the property.

Shivanand Rajput, Security, Safety & Liaison Manager, Alila Diwa Goa, avers, “Safety and security play a major role in the hospitality industry today. The guests, checking in a hotel, come with an expectation to enjoy their vacation without having any concern of their safety. Hence, it is imperative for hospitality industry to ensure safety and security for the guests staying in the hotel. Recently, there have been many terrorist attacks, unruly incidents which have made the hotel industry to be vigilant and equipped to face any sort of emergency.”

Anthony Dias, Loss & Prevention Manager, Four Points by Sheraton, Navi Mumbai, Vashi, states, “Since 2008, after the Terrorist attack on Taj Mumbai, the hotel security management has become an important factor for the safety and security of every guest and staff. People from different parts of the world visit India for business purpose or for leisure. And they want to be assured of their safety! ”