Skills Proficiency Awards in Basic Housekeeping Services, 2005

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Skills Proficiency awards

in Basic Housekeeping
Services www.cityandguilds.com

Skills Foundation Certificate 3528


Skills Proficiency Certificate 3529
Syllabus
Assessments
Programme guidance notes
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City & Guilds fully supports the principle of equal opportunities and is committed to
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Skills Proficiency awards
in Basic Housekeeping
Services
Skills Foundation Certificate 3528
Skills Proficiency Certificate 3529
Syllabus
Assessments
Programme guidance notes

09.05/PO4500003492/ST89242
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Contents

05 About City & Guilds


05 Introduction to this programme
05 About this booklet
06 How to offer this programme
06 Qualification approval
06 Examination centre approval
06 Numbering system
07 Making entries for assessments
07 Internal candidates
07 External candidates
07 Submitting results to City & Guilds
08 Roles and responsibilities
08 Programme coordinator
08 Assessor
09 Candidate
09 External verifier
10 Quality inspector/auditor
10 Designing courses of study
11 Resources
11 Presentation format of syllabus
11 Carry out assessments
12 Practical assessments
13 Preparation, supervision and marking
13 Assessment of underpinning knowledge
14 Records, results and certification
14 Health and safety
15 Equal opportunities
15 Progression routes and recognition
17 Syllabus
17 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services
19 Skills Foundation Certificate 3528
23 Skills Proficiency Certificate 3529
Contents
continued

27 Candidate assessment record sheets


28 Skills Foundation Certificate
31 Skills Proficiency Certificate
35 Guide to the assessment of practical skills
35 Assessor skills
36 Preparing assessment plans
37 Conducting practical assessments by observation
38 Appraisal of products
38 Supplementary questions
39 Oral questioning
39 Distractions and disruptions
40 Giving feedback on performance
42 Skills to help with employment
44 Safety for workers
Skills Proficiency awards
in Basic Housekeeping Services

About City & Guilds


We provide assessment and certification services for schools and colleges, business
and industry, trade associations and government agencies in nearly 100 countries.
We have over 125 years of experience in identifying training needs, developing
assessment materials, carrying out assessments and training assessment staff. We
award certificates to people who have shown they have mastered skills that are based
on world-class standards set by industry. City & Guilds International provides a service
to customers around the world who need quality assessments and certification.

Introduction to this programme


We have designed the Skills Proficiency awards to provide a broad introduction to
essential practical skills for those undergoing training or employed in these areas
of work.

There are two related levels:


Skills Foundation Certificate
Skills Proficiency Certificate

We do not say the amount of time a candidate would need to carry out the
programme. We award certificates and diplomas for gaining and showing skills by
whatever mode of study, and not for periods of time spent in study.

We recommend that candidates achieve the Skills Foundation Certificate before


attempting the Skills Proficiency Certificate.

About this booklet


This booklet is designed to be used by:
• Candidates
• Instructors
• Assessors
• Verifiers
• Centre co-ordinators
• Employers

It provides all the information required to understand and take part in the Skills
Proficiency awards, and conduct suitable training and assessment in accordance with
City & Guilds’ regulations, policy and practice.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 05


How to offer this programme
To offer these awards you must get approval from us.

There are two categories of approval.

Qualification approval
We give approval to offer a training and assessment course based on this syllabus.

Examination centre approval


We give approval to enter candidates for practical assessments.

To be approved by us to offer a training and assessment course you must send a


completed application to your local City & Guilds office.

To enter candidates for assessment you must be approved by us.

Approved centres must provide suitable facilities for taking practical assessments,
secure places to keep assessment materials, and will have an appointed external
verifier to review practical work.

After we have received and accepted an application, we will send an approval letter
confirming this.

Please note that in this section we have provided an overview of centre


approval procedures. Please refer to the current issue of ‘Delivering
International Qualifications – Centre Guide’ for full details of these procedures.

City & Guilds reserves the right to suspend an approved centre, or withdraw its
approval to conduct City & Guilds programmes, for reasons of debt, malpractice or for
any reason that may be detrimental to the maintenance of authentic, reliable and valid
qualifications or that may prejudice the name of City & Guilds.

Numbering system
We use a numbering system to allow entries to be made for our awards.

To carry out what is needed for the Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping
Services, candidates must be successful in one of the following assessments:
3528-51-511 Skills Foundation Certificate
3529-51-511 Skills Proficiency Certificate

We use these numbers throughout this booklet. You must use these numbers
correctly if you send forms to us.

06 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Making entries for assessments
Candidates must enter through an assessment centre we have approved to carry out
the assessments for Skills Proficiency awards.

There are two ways of entering candidates for assessments.

Internal candidates
Candidates can enter for assessments if they are taking or have already finished a
course at a school, college or similar training institution that has directed their
preparation, whether by going to a training centre, working with another institution,
or by open-learning methods.

External candidates
These are candidates who have not finished a programme as described above. To be
eligible for assessment external candidates must be able to provide suitable
evidence of previous training or work experience through which the required
competencies have been demonstrated on more than one occasion in the past. The
assessment centres must receive their application for assessment well before the
date of the assessment concerned. This allows them to act on any advice you give
about assessment arrangements or any further preparation needed.

External candidates must meet all the requirements for the assessment.

In this publication we use the term ‘centre’ to mean a school, college, place of work
or other institution.

Submitting results to City & Guilds


Successful candidates entering for the Skills Proficiency awards will receive a
‘Notification of Candidate Results’ giving details of how they performed.

We grade practical assessments as pass (P) or not yet competent (X).

If candidates successfully finish all the requirements for the Skills Proficiency award
at a specific level, they will receive the appropriate certificate.

We will send the ‘Notification of Candidate Results’, and certificates to the


assessment centre to be awarded to successful candidates. It is your responsibility
to give the candidates the certificates. If candidates have a question about the
results and certificates, they must contact you. You may then contact us if necessary.

We will also send you a results list showing how all candidates performed.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 07


Roles and responsibilities
This section gives details of the requirements and responsibilities of each role
involved in the assessment, verification and examinations processes. Centres should
identify members of staff to fulfill these roles.

Please refer to ‘Delivering International Qualifications – Centres Guide’ for


more information.

Programme coordinator
The person in the training centre responsible for ensuring that:
• printouts sent by City & Guilds are correct
• results are sent to City & Guilds in accordance with specified procedures
• all interested parties are notified of assessment dates well in advance
• candidates and centre staff fully understand their role and responsibilities
• facilities and equipment are available so that assessments can be conducted in
accordance with City & Guilds requirements
• documents received from City & Guilds are securely stored
• results and/or certificates are properly issued to candidates at the centre
• monitoring the work of assessors.

Assessor
The primary role of an assessor is to assess candidates’ performance and related
knowledge in a range of tasks and to ensure that the competence/knowledge
demonstrated meets the requirements of the programme. Assessors will therefore
need to have occupational experience in the vocational area to be assessed.

They will also need to be familiar with the candidates whom they are assessing; so
assessors are likely to be the candidates’ own instructors, who are best able to
decide when individuals are able to perform competently, and therefore are ready to
be formally assessed for the award.

Assessors are responsible for:


• agreeing an assessment plan with each candidate
• briefing candidates on the assessment process
• following assessment guidance provided
• observing candidates’ performance and/or conducting other forms of assessment
• recording all questions used and answers given for the purposes of meeting the
evidence requirements
• justifying the evidence and making assessment decisions against the standards
• providing candidates with prompt, accurate and constructive feedback
• maintaining records of candidates’ achievement
• confirming that candidates have demonstrated competence/knowledge and
completing the required documentation
• keeping themselves up to date with City & Guilds publications relating to quality
assurance
• agreeing new assessment plans with candidates where further evidence
is required
• making themselves available for discussion with the external verifier.

08 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Candidate
Candidates are those individuals who are working towards a qualification at a centre
approved by City & Guilds.

Candidates are responsible for:


• confirming to assessors that they understand the requirements of the programme
• confirming to assessors that they understand the relationship between the
requirements and the tasks they need to perform to demonstrate competence
and/or related knowledge
• discussing and agreeing assessment plans with their assessors
• identifying possible sources of evidence
• maintaining and presenting evidence in a well organised way
• ensuring that the evidence is adequate to present for assessment
• making themselves available for assessment and to discuss their evidence.

External verifier
External verifiers are appointed by City & Guilds for specific programmes to ensure
that all assessments undertaken within City & Guilds centres are fair, valid,
consistent and meet the requirements of the programme.

External verifiers are responsible for:


• making approval visits/recommendations (where necessary) to confirm that
organisations can satisfy the approval criteria
• helping centres to develop internal assessment and evidence evaluation systems
that are fair, reliable, accessible and non-discriminatory
• monitoring internal quality assurance systems and sampling, including by direct
observation, assessment activities, methods and records
• checking claims for certification to ensure they are authentic, valid and supported
by auditable records
• acting as a source of advice and support, including help with the interpretation
of standards
• promoting best practice
• providing prompt, accurate and constructive feedback to all relevant parties on
the operation of centres’ assessment systems
• confirming that centres have implemented any corrective actions required
• reporting back to City & Guilds
• maintaining records of centre visits and making these available for
auditing purposes.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 09


Quality inspector/auditor
Quality inspectors or auditors are appointed by City & Guilds to ensure that centres
comply with our centre approval criteria. Their responsibilities relate to systems and
quality assurance rather than programme specific assessment requirements.

Quality inspectors or auditors are responsible for:


• conducting inspection or audit trails to ensure centres comply with City & Guilds
centre approval criteria
• making approval visits/recommendations (where appropriate) to confirm that
potential centres satisfy/will be able to satisfy the centre approval criteria
• providing prompt, accurate and constructive feedback to all relevant parties
• providing advice to centres on internal quality arrangements
• reporting back to City & Guilds
• maintaining records of centre visits and making these available for auditing
purposes.

Designing courses of study


Candidates for the Skills Proficiency awards will have come from different
backgrounds and will have different employment and training experiences.

We recommend the following:


• carry out an assessment of the candidates’ achievements so you can see what
learning they already have; and
• consider what learning methods and places will best suit them.

When you assess a candidate’s needs, you should design training programmes
that consider:
• has the candidate completed any previous education, training or qualifications?
• does the candidate have any previous practical experience which is relevant to the
aims of the programme and from which they may have learned the relevant skills
and knowledge?

As long as the candidates meet the aims of this learning programme the structure of
the course of training is up to you. So, it is possible to include extra topics that meet
local needs.

Practical work must be carefully planned both to illustrate the application of theory
and to provide exercises of skill. The maximum opportunity must be provided for
workshop practice and demonstrations. As far as possible, candidates must be able
to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical work within a realistic work
environment. Candidates should keep records of the practical work they do so they
can refer to it at a later date.

10 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Resources
If you want to use these qualifications as the basis for a course, you must read this
booklet and make sure that you have the staff and equipment to meet all the
requirements. If there are no facilities for realistic practical work, we strongly
recommend that you develop links with local industry to provide opportunities for
hands-on experience.

Presentation format of syllabus


Practical competences
Each unit starts with a section on practical competences which shows the practical
skills candidates must have.

At times we give more detail about important words in each ‘competence


statement’.

For example:
1.2 Apply good housekeeping practices at all times.
Practices: clean/tidy work areas, removal/disposal of waste products,
protect surfaces

In the above statement the word ‘practices’ is given as a range which the candidate
should be familiar with. If a range starts with the abbreviation ‘eg’ the candidates
only need to cover some of the ranged areas or you can use suitable alternatives.

The end of each unit contains practical assessments which deal with the practical
competences. Candidates must carry out the practical assessments either in a real
or a simulated work environment.

Carry out assessments


The practical assessments for these awards may be carried out during the learning
programme, but they may also take place during a special assessment period once
training has been completed.

We describe these assessments as ‘free date’ because they are carried out at a college
or other training establishment on a date or over a period which the college chooses.

Assessments must be carried out in accordance with the requirements described in


‘Delivering International Qualifications – Centre Guide’. Assessors/instructors should
familiarise themselves with the Guide to the assessment of practical skills contained
in this booklet.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 11


Practical assessments
The practical assessments for the Skills Proficiency awards are derived from the
practical competences.

The competence checklist (tick boxes) serves as the marking criteria for
these assessments and should be used by the assessor/instructor to record the
outcome of each candidate’s performance.

The competence checklist is a list of activities or performance outcomes that a


candidate must be seen to be able to do in order to be considered competent in the
tasks being assessed for these awards. The checklists are written in the same way, so
that for each competence statement it is possible to say either:

‘Yes, the candidate successfully carried out this activity’ or

‘No, the candidate has not yet achieved this standard.’

The use of local legislation, tools, equipment and practices is allowed within the
specifications of the ‘range’ supporting each practical competence statement.
The results of the assessment must be documented and available for audit by the
external verifier.

All assessments must be successfully completed.

All assessments must be completed in the context of one specific job role in which
the candidate is working, or for which the candidate is being trained. The context
must be stated on each candidate’s assessment record.

The competence checklists in this publication must be photocopied and must be


completed for every candidate.

The practical assessments for these awards are not suitable for entirely classroom-
based teaching. Candidates must demonstrate competence in
a realistic work environment.

This may be:


• the workplace in which the candidate is undertaking training
• a simulated work environment.

A simulated work environment is an area such as a training room specifically


designed to replicate the work place as closely as possible. A classroom is unsuitable
as a simulated work environment.

A candidate transferring from a realistic work environment to a real workplace


should perceive no difference.

12 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Candidates may demonstrate competence in a combination of real and
simulated situations.

Candidates must be able to show that they can perform the required tasks to the
standards that would be expected if they were actually working in industry. This is
likely to include factors such as the time taken to complete the tasks and the quality
of any products produced. In addition to demonstrating practical skills, candidates
will have to show that they can cope with psychological and environmental
conditions of real work, eg pressures and consequences of producing products for
customers, working with other people, planning and organising work, following
procedures, and dealing with variations and problems that may occur in performing
the specified tasks.

Candidates undertaking practical activities for the purposes of assessment must, at


all times, be under the supervision of a competent and qualified supervisor.

Preparation, supervision and marking


It is essential that the instructor/assessor ensures all necessary preparations are
carried out. This will involve ensuring:
• the candidate is ready to demonstrate his or her practical skills
• every candidate understands what is involved
• any necessary materials, tools or equipment are available for the assessment.

Assessment of the practical performance is determined on outcomes as defined by


the practical competences. The candidate must be successful in all competences
included in the checklist before it can be ‘signed off’ and its results transferred to
the summative record.

All practical assessments should be supervised and assessors should make sure that
the results reflect the candidate’s own performance. Separate records must be kept
of the dates of all attempts by each candidate.

The candidate should be informed of the result as soon as possible. If he/she does
not meet the standard of ‘competent’ in any of the practical requirements, the
decision of either immediate resit or further practice must be taken.

Assessment of underpinning knowledge


The knowledge requirements in this programme are tested by asking questions at
the end of the practical assessment to verify that the candidate understands the
reasons why a particular activity has been performed.

The programme coordinator must arrange in advance with their local City & Guilds
office to obtain the underpinning knowledge questions and candidate record sheets
required for conducting the oral assessment. He/she is responsible for ensuring that
all oral questioning materials are kept securely and the assessments conducted in
accordance with City & Guilds requirements.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 13


Oral questioning must not be conducted during an activity. The person carrying out
the assessment of practical competences is responsible for asking questions about
underpinning knowledge and recording the candidate’s responses on the relevant
form. The candidate response record forms must be available for review by the
external verifier.

The underpinning knowledge questions may be asked in any language that is


understood by both candidate and assessor. The centre must ensure that the external
verifier is provided with translations of questions asked, as well as candidate responses,
if he/she does not speak the language in which questioning was conducted.

Please refer to the section Oral questioning in the Guide to the assessment of
practical skills contained in this booklet.

Records, results and certification


When all the required assessments have been achieved, the result must be
entered onto Form S which must be countersigned by the external verifier and
sent to City &Guilds.

You must keep all assessment documentation and material in a file for each candidate
until the results have been agreed by the external verifier and until confirmation of the
result has been received from City & Guilds. You must hold all the evidence for a
minimum of six months and candidate records for a minimum of three years.

After results have been confirmed, copies of assessment documentation other than
Form S may be returned to candidates.

The operation of this programme requires the appointment of an external verifier.


The external verifier must countersign the results of the practical assessments on
Form S.
The external verifier should also be able to inspect records and candidates’
work to verify the results before submission.

Health and safety


All work must be carried out in a safe and efficient manner, and safety must be
inherent in the candidate’s approach to the practical assessments.

Centres must ensure that due attention is paid to safety and safe working practices
during ALL practical assessments.

It is expected that the assessor will intervene if a candidate is acting in a dangerous


manner, explaining to the candidate the reason for stopping the assessment.

Candidates should not be allowed to continue with the test if acting in an unsafe manner.

14 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Equal opportunities
We are committed to giving everyone who wants to gain one of our awards an equal
opportunity of achieving it. We support equal opportunities in education, training
and employment, and will take positive action to:
• promote practice and procedures in our centres that give equal opportunities to
everybody, regardless of their culture, sex, ability, disability, age, ethnic
background, nationality, religion, sexual orientation (sexuality), marital status,
employment status or social class
• work towards removing all practice and procedures that discriminate unfairly
(directly or indirectly)
• widen access to our awards to include people who are under-represented
• set the awards standards according to equal opportunities best practice.

We will make sure that our centres use an equal opportunities policy that works
together with ours, and that they maintain an effective appeals procedure.

We will expect centres to tell candidates how to find and use their own equal
opportunities policy and appeals procedure.

Progression routes and recognition


We have a range of related qualification for onward progression. These include
relevant International Vocational Qualifications listed in the City & Guilds
International Handbook.

Candidates achieving this award at Skills Proficiency Certificate level will be eligible
to apply for assessment in relevant units within 7068 IVQ in Accommodation
Operations and Services at Certificate level.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 15


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Syllabus
Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services

19 Skills Foundation Certificate


23 Skills Proficiency Certificate

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 17


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Skills Foundation Certificate

Introduction
The aim of this module is to introduce the candidate to:
a safe working within their own area of work
b the prevention of hazards
c basic cleaning techniques and correct use of chemicals
d basic use of cleaning equipment
e working with other people in a service environment.

The use of national/local regulations and working practices must be included in all
practical competences.

Practical competences
Health and Safety
1.1 Wear appropriate protective clothing at all times.

1.2 Apply good housekeeping practices at all times.


Practices: eg clean/tidy work areas, removal of waste products, protect surfaces

1.3 Observe all workplace safety procedures.

1.4 Identify potential hazards and report to the appropriate person.

1.5 Use equipment safely.


Safely: eg identifying and reporting faults, operating to manufacturer’s
instructions, cleaning, moving, lifting

1.6 Locate and identify various types of fire fighting equipment and state their uses.

1.7 Handle cleaning chemicals safely.


Handle: eg lifting, moving, using, storing, disposal

Customer Contact
1.8 Present self positively and in accordance with establishments standards.
Standards: personal hygiene, grooming, dress

1.9 Communicate clearly and effectively at all times.

1.10 Deal with customers politely and promptly.

1.11 Communicate with customers appropriately.

1.12 Complete all tasks with a professional attitude.

1.13 Work effectively and efficiently at all times.


Work: eg independently, team work

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 19


Housekeeping Services
1.14 Use appropriate security procedures with regard to equipment and materials.

1.15 Select appropriate cleaning procedures for a variety of situations.

1.16 Clean ceilings and walls using appropriate methods and materials.

1.17 Clean public areas using appropriate methods and materials.


Public areas: doorways, corridors, foyers, lifts, bars, lounges

1.18 Clean function rooms using appropriate methods and materials.

Knowledge requirements
Oral questioning should be used to provide evidence of the candidate’s knowledge of:

Health and Safety


1.1 Emergency procedures.
Procedures: raising alarms, alarm types, safe/efficient evacuation, means of
escape, assembly points
Emergencies: fire drill, bomb warning

1.2 Use and care of protective clothing and equipment.

1.3 Reasons for carrying out good housekeeping practices.


Practices: eg clean/tidy work areas, removal/disposal of waste products,
protect surfaces
Reasons: eg safety, efficiency, security, hygiene, legal requirements,
company liability

1.4 Safety hazards and precautions in the workplace.


Hazards: to self, colleagues, customers, surfaces (slippery, uneven, chipped,
broken, substances (chemicals, mixing), obstructions (corridors, by doors)
Precautions: eg safety signs and notices, staff training, company procedures

1.5 Sources of electrical danger and methods of protection.


Sources: damaged (sockets, cables, plugs, equipment), incorrectly wired
appliance plugs, water
Methods of protection: transformers, fuses, plugs, circuit breakers,
double insulation, safe working practices

1.6 Principles of fire and different types of fire.


Principles of fire: heat, fuel, oxygen
Types: wood/paper, oil/spirit, electrical

20 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


1.7 Types of fire fighting equipment and their uses.
Equipment: fire extinguishers (water, CO2, foam, powder), sand/water bucket,
blanket, fire hose

1.8 Procedures for handling materials safely.


Procedures: eg lifting, moving, storing, disposal
Materials: food and beverage products, cleaning chemicals

1.9 Safe use of equipment.


Use: eg identifying and reporting faults, operating to manufacturer’s
instructions, cleaning methods, moving, lifting

Customer Contact
1.10 Personal characteristics required of staff to perform successful customer care.
Characteristics: politeness, promptness, willingness to assist

1.11 Elements of good personal presentation.


Elements: eg clean clothes, clean footwear, appropriate use of cosmetics,
clean and tidy hair, males to be clean shaven with beards and moustaches
trimmed, routine care of hands and nails

1.12 Appropriate health and hygiene practices.


Practices: balanced diet, sufficient sleep, relaxation, good use of leisure time,
posture, deportment, clean body, face, teeth, hands and feet

1.13 The importance of effective communication skills.


Communication: verbal, non-verbal

1.14 The importance of adopting a professional attitude.


Importance: to self, work colleagues, employer, customers
Professional attitude: punctuality, patience, tact, self organisation, good
humour, responding positively to instructions, criticisms and appraisals

1.15 Benefits of effective and efficient working methods.


Factors: time saving, morale, job satisfaction, reduced fatigue, effective use of
equipment, effective use of cleaning materials, customer satisfaction.

Housekeeping Services
1.16 Basic reasons for cleaning and ways in which soiling occurs.
Reasons: appearance, customer expectations, extending life of
surfaces/furnishings
Cleaning: external, internal

1.17 Different types of spoilage.


Types: dust, dirt, graffiti, organic matters, bacteria

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 21


1.18 Features and use of different cleaning equipment and cleaning chemicals.
Equipment: manual (cloths, mop, sweepers, wet mops, brushes, brooms,
cleaning trolleys), suction (cylinder, tub, upright), rotary (floor maintenance-
high/low speed), shampooing (dry foam)
Chemicals: detergents, solvent based, abrasives, polishes (ie vinegar, cream,
wax, ammonia), caustic soda, sodium hypochlorite
Store: containers, labels, secure lids

1.19 Cross contamination hazards.


Cross contamination: using guest towels for cleaning, clean/soiled linen mix,
one cloth for different tasks, personal hygiene factors, incorrect procedures,
not cleaning mops/cloths

1.20 Cleaning methods for ceiling and walls.


Dry: suction mop/sweep
Wet: damp wiping, wet sponge, mopping, squeegees (glass)
Preservatives: wax, cream, oil (unsealed wood)

1.21 Cleaning methods for hard floors and floor coverings.


Methods: eg dry, wet, polishing, suction, shampoo

1.22 Cleaning methods for furniture.


Methods: eg dry, wet, polishing

1.23 Procedures for cleaning public areas.


Public areas: impact of constant traffic, importance of appearance,
need for accessibility

1.24 Procedures for cleaning function rooms.


Function rooms: furniture (arrangement affecting cleaning),
accessibility, servicing

22 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Skills Proficiency Certificate

Introduction
The aim of this module is to enable the candidate to:
a maintain safe working conditions
b adopt safe procedures for themselves and others
c carry out cleaning procedures
d organise and carry out cleaning activities effectively
e interact with customers when providing services.

The use of national/local regulations and working practices must be included in all
practical competences.

Practical competences
Health and Safety
2.1 Select and use protective clothing and safety equipment for specific tasks.

2.2 Carry out safe working practices to prevent hazards and to ensure the safety of
working personnel and members of the public.

2.3 Inspect for faults, set up and safely use equipment in general use.

2.4 Use and store cleaning chemicals in a safe manner.


Use: eg manufacturers’ instructions, toxic effect, loading, unloading, stacking

2.5 Apply establishment emergency procedures.


Procedures: eg raising the alarm, alarm types, staff responsibilities, alarms,
fire doors, fire fighting equipment, first aid points, fire exits, evacuation
procedures, assembly points
Emergency: fire, bomb warning

2.6 Carry out basic first aid procedures.

Customer Contact
2.7 Provide appropriate information and assistance to customers.

2.8 Refer customers to the appropriate contact where necessary.

2.9 Use appropriate security procedures with regard to guests’ belongings.

2.10 Report incidents in accordance with establishment procedures.

Housekeeping Services
2.11 Organise cleaning tasks effectively.

2.12 Work effectively and co-operatively in team situations.

2.13 Use appropriate health and hygiene practices.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 23


2.14 Clean sanitary fittings using appropriate methods and materials.

2.15 Clean bathrooms using appropriate methods and materials.

2.16 Make beds in accordance with establishment standards.

2.17 Clean bedrooms using appropriate methods and materials.

Knowledge requirements
Oral questioning should be used to provide evidence of the candidate’s knowledge of:

Health and Safety


2.1 The importance and common methods of hazard prevention.
Methods: warning notices, barriers

2.2 Purpose and use of protective clothing and safety equipment for a range
of applications.

2.3 Faults which would make equipment unsafe to use.


Faults: eg damage (plugs, cables, attachments), ill-fitting attachments, leaks,
unusual noises

2.4 Toxic effects of substances used in the workplace for cleaning.


Effect: eyes, skin, breathing

2.5 Preventative and remedial actions to be taken in the case of exposure to toxic
substances.
Exposure: ingested, contact with skin, inhaled
Preventative action: ventilation, masks, protective clothing/equipment
Remedial action: immediate first aid, report to supervisor

2.6 Care and storage of potentially dangerous substances.


Substances: cleaning chemicals
Storage: containers, labels, secure lids
Control: responsibilities, location, issues

2.7 Basic first aid procedures.


Treatment: fracture, shock, electric shock, burns, fainting
First aid box: contents, checks

2.8 Procedures for dealing with emergencies.


Procedures: eg raising alarm, equipment, reporting, responsibilities,
evacuation, assembly points, roll calls, emergency services
Emergencies: fire, bomb warning

24 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Customer Contact
2.9 Skills required for dealing with different types of customer.
Skills: willingness to listen, ability to identify customer wants,
needs, expectations and concerns, ability to identify/acknowledge
customer complaints
Customers: knowledgeable, confused, happy, argumentative

2.10 Situations requiring customer attention.


Situations: urgent, non-urgent

2.11 Security considerations in different areas of the workplace.


Security: staff, customers, external, personal belongings, stock
Areas: staff areas, storage areas, public areas

2.12 Procedures for reporting incidents.

2.13 Importance of maintaining customer confidentiality.

Housekeeping Services
2.14 Methods of controlling soiling.
Cleaning: schedules, examples
Restrictions: movement people/equipment, dust control mats,
soil retarding/resistant of finishes

2.15 Factors affecting the standard of cleanliness.


Surfaces: condition, type, use, staff numbers
Training: induction, ongoing
Equipment: types available
Procedures: in-house, schedules

2.16 Importance of monitoring standards.


Factors: customer satisfaction, hygiene, safety, security, problem identification

2.17 Types of surface finishes.


Hard floors: porous, semi-porous, non-porous
Floor covering: woven, tufted, bonded
Walls and ceiling: paint, paper, fabric, plastics, wood, metal, tile, glass,
stone, brick
Sanitary fittings: ceramic, enamel, stainless steel, plastic
Furniture: wood hard/soft, plywood, block board, chipboard, wicker, cane,
metal, glass, upholstered

2.18 Cleaning methods for sanitary fittings.


Methods: neutral detergents, alkali detergents, strong acids detergents

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 25


2.19 Procedures for cleaning bathrooms.
Procedures: sources of bacteria identified, safety measures, removal of soiled
linen and rubbish, cleaning of bidet/wash hand basin, cleaning of toilet, renewal
of linen and guests’ supplies, inspect area, cleaning floor, daily maintenance
check and care of equipment

2.20 Procedures for cleaning bedrooms.


Methods: block, single/orthodox
Prioritising: departure, stay-over, vacant room, ventilate, remove rubbish,
flush toilet, strip bed, remove all soiled linen, remake beds, leave dust to settle,
clean bathroom, damp dust, check/replace guest supplies, adjust ventilation,
check all electric fittings, replace ashtrays/waste bins, suction clean, check
room appearance
In-house variances: explained
Safety: measures

2.21 Other departments with which liaison is needed.


Departments: eg reception, maintenance, restaurant, portering, kitchen,
conference/banqueting, finance, administration

26 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Candidate assessment record sheets

Instructions
One complete set of competence achievement records must be provided for
each candidate being assessed. The following section contains competence
achievement records for both the Skills Foundation Certificate and the Skills
Proficiency Certificate programmes.

The assessor should confirm achievement of each requirement with a tick in the
appropriate box and note the date of achievement. The candidate should also initial
and date each requirement to confirm the successful completion of the assessment.

Unsuccessful attempts should not be recorded on these sheets but


recorded separately.

Upon completion of all requirements for the award the competence assessment
record must be dated and signed by the candidate, assessor and external verifier
before results can be submitted and certification requested.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 27


Skills Foundation Certificate in Basic
Housekeeping Services
Competence achievement record (3528-51-511)

Candidate name (please print)

Practical competences Standard achieved


Date Assessor Date Candidate
Health and Safety (✓) initial initial
1.1 Wear appropriate protective
clothing at all times.
1.2 Apply good housekeeping
practices at all times.
1.3 Observe all workplace safety
procedures.
1.4 Identify potential hazards and
report to the appropriate person.
1.5 Use equipment safely.
1.6 Locate and identify various types
of fire fighting equipment and
state their uses.
1.7 Handle cleaning chemicals safely.

Customer Contact (✓)


1.8 Present self positively and in
accordance with establishments
standards.
1.9 Communicate clearly and
effectively at all times.
1.10 Deal with customers politely and
promptly.
1.11 Communicate with customers
appropriately.
1.12 Complete all tasks with a
professional attitude.
1.13 Work effectively and efficiently at
all times.

28 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Housekeeping Services (✓)
1.14 Use appropriate security
procedures with regard to
equipment and materials.
1.15 Select appropriate cleaning
procedures for a variety of
situations.
1.16 Clean ceilings and walls using
appropriate methods and
materials.
1.17 Clean public areas using
appropriate methods and
materials.
1.18 Clean function rooms using
appropriate methods and
materials.

Context:

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 29


Comments:

This is to confirm that the candidate has successfully completed the required tasks:

Candidate name (please print) and signature

Assessor name (please print) and signature

Verifier name (please print) and signature

Completion date

30 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Skills Proficiency Certificate in Basic
Housekeeping Services
Competence achievement record (3529-51-511)

Candidate name (please print)

Practical competences Standard achieved


Date Assessor Date Candidate
Health and Safety (✓) initial initial
2.1 Select and use protective clothing
and safety equipment for specific
tasks.
2.2 Carry out safe working practices to
prevent hazards and to ensure the
safety of working personnel and
members of the public.
2.3 Inspect for faults, set up and safely
use equipment in general use.
2.4 Use and store cleaning chemicals in
a safe manner.
2.5 Apply establishment emergency
procedures.
2.6 Carry out basic first aid procedures.

Customer Contact
2.7 Provide appropriate information and
assistance to customers.
2.8 Refer customers to the appropriate
contact where necessary.
2.9 Use appropriate security procedures
with regard to guests’ belongings.
2.10 Report incidents in accordance with
establishment procedures.

Housekeeping Services
2.11 Organise cleaning tasks effectively.
2.12 Work effectively and co-operatively
in team situations.
2.13 Use appropriate health and hygiene
practices.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 31


2.14 Clean sanitary fittings using
appropriate methods and materials.
2.15 Clean bathrooms using appropriate
methods and materials.
2.16 Make beds in accordance with
establishment standards.
2.17 Clean bedrooms using appropriate
methods and materials.

Context:

32 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Comments:

This is to confirm that the candidate has successfully completed the required tasks:

Candidate name (please print) and signature

Assessor name (please print) and signature

Verifier name (please print) and signature

Completion date

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 33


This page is intentionally blank
Guide to the assessment of practical skills

The performance outcomes in the competence checklist are often stated as activities
performed to a particular standard, that can be observed by the assessor. The
outcomes may also require assessment of practical skills through appraisal of
products, objects made by the candidate in the course of the activity being assessed.

The checklist ensures that everyone involved in observation of practical performance


the Skills Proficiency awards is working to the same checklist and standards.

Assessor skills
We do not require assessors to have a formal qualification in assessment, although
we do ask centres to confirm that all staff involved in teaching programmes are
appropriately qualified, as part of the centre approval process. We reserve the right
to check this, and we moderate the quality of assessor performance through the
external verifier.

Observation of performance requires personal skills and judgment skills to make


assessment decisions based on the evidence and criteria available.

Personal skills are related to the assessor’s behaviour towards candidates during the
observation. Although assessors need to be objective, they must also be supportive.

Assessors with good personal skills will:


✓ Plan a realistic environment – normal workplace, normal workshop activity
✓ Be friendly towards the candidate, and using first name
✓ Check that the candidate understands everything and is not nervous
✓ Be attentive
✓ Not stand so close to the candidate that the candidate is distracted or made to
feel nervous
✓ Offer words of encouragement – provided these do not distract
✓ Ask questions that offer encouragement
✓ End the observation with a final word of encouragement.

Assessors with poor personal skills:


✗ Dress inappropriately (for example wearing unusually formal clothes)
✗ Use threatening expressions, eg ‘I hope you understand this, because it’s too late
if you don’t!’
✗ Be inattentive, not watching, talking to people not involved in the assessment
✗ Stand very close to the candidate so that candidate feels nervous
✗ Show disapproval, eg by shaking the head
✗ End the assessment with an expression of disapproval

During the assessment, the assessor should focus on one activity at a time. The
candidate may be performing activities in a sequential order. The assessor must
watch for each activity as it happens, in sequence, and make a judgment quickly and
decisively, in order to be prepared to move to the next observable activity. If assessing
one candidate at a time, the assessor can follow the activities in a sequence.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 35


Candidates may also be assessed in groups, although we suggest not more that 10 -
15. The assessor will need to move from candidate to candidate to collect evidence
for all the outcomes being observed. More than one assessor may be required.

The assessor should consider:


• Has the candidate normally performed this task successfully up to the time of the
assessment?
• Is it likely that the candidate will continue to perform this task to the standard
required in the future?

If the answer to these questions is ‘yes’, then the assessor should be confident about
recording successful achievement.

Preparing assessment plans


Unplanned assessment of practical skills is ineffective and wastes time.

In best practice, the assessment process is a natural part of the learning programme,
is cost-effective and fair, and is held in respect by all involved.

The first stage is to be clear about what has to be assessed. What is the candidate
being asked to do, show, know, produce – to what standard and under what
conditions? This information can also come from lesson plans. A good lesson plan
will have specific achievements as the outcome of the lesson or series of lessons.

The meaning of the outcome must be understood and agreed as part of the planning
process. Some outcomes are intentionally written to allow for local interpretation
according to particular circumstances. The training programme should provide
opportunities to discuss all the possible interpretations and to consider why
different companies have different policies and why practices can vary from country
to country. It will also focus on what is most appropriate for the particular situation in
which the candidates are working.

The assessment plan must involve the selection of assessment methods that are
valid and reliable, cost-effective, achievable in terms of time and resources and
which cover the competences to be assessed.

City & Guilds has a policy that all of its assessments should be fair and accessible. The
practical assessments are not a test of English, or indeed any other language, unless
knowledge and use of specific terminology is an essential part of the job in question.
The assessor must explain any instructions or performance objectives that a
candidate does not understand before the assessment takes place.

36 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


The following tips may be useful in making an assessment plan:
• Make plans clearly legible with good handwriting or typed
• Write plans in clear language which avoids jargon
• Order stages logically
• Identify the aim of assessment
• Identify suitable venue for assessment to take place
• List resources to be used
• Explain the aim of assessment to candidate and how information gained by the
assessment will be used
• Establish candidate’s current and prior achievements and preferred learning style
• Select assessment methods best suited for the learning objectives
• Select assessment methods which cause minimum disruption and are cost effective
• Select assessment methods which take account of any special factors
• Select assessment methods which occur during normal work activities
• Complete the assessment plan and state where records are stored

The external verifier will want to know what plan was used to arrive at the practical
assessment results.

Please refer to section 9.6 in ‘Delivering International Qualifications – Centre Guide’


for a sample assessment plan (Form 7).

Conducting practical assessments by observation


Assessment by observation of performance takes place whilst the activity is being
done. This method of assessment, especially in the workplace, is popular with
candidates and employers because there is a high degree of realism and it is a good
indicator of the ability to perform particular tasks.

Before the assessment takes place, it is essential to brief the candidates. This can
be done as a group, or individually. Observing performance is not intended to be an
examination, or cause candidates undue stress. It should never be a surprise,
unannounced activity.

The briefing should:


• describe what the assessor plans to do
• show candidates the performance outcomes to be assessed
• explain what candidates will be asked to do in order to demonstrate the skills
• clarify what will be looked for in the demonstration of skill
• confirm when the assessment will take place, where and how long it will last
• explain what will happen to information collected during the assessment
• provide opportunities for candidates to ask questions on any aspect of the
assessment.

Each candidate needs to know what will happen if the decision is ‘not yet achieved
the standard required’. Candidates should be able to attempt the activity again,
after the assessor has explained what evidence is still needed.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 37


Appraisal of products
Where observation of performance is not used, our policy is to include appraisal of
products as a means of assessing practical skills.

Example:
Practical competences
The candidate must be able to do the following:
1.3 Assemble and finish components to form basic products

This method of assessment is sometimes used because a practical task brings


together the mental, physical and social skills needed to carry out the planning,
undertaking and checking of a specified task. In this case the product required is a
product made up of components. A product could also be a plan, a design, or a piece
of processed information.

Here the instructor uses the competence checklist to plan a set of activities that will
allow the candidate to demonstrate competence in the required practical skills. Often
this will involve using equipment in a workshop. It may involve working outside.

Workshop activities are particularly useful in the early stages of assessing practical
skills and can be used in combination with work placement. To reduce the risk of
candidates making mistakes that have a real value, workshop activities can be used to
practice highly technical skills until both the trainer and the candidate are confident
that the task can be performed safely and competently in a real work situation.

Workshop practice, combined with work experience, is also useful where there is a
high element of risk or where the relationship between customer and customer
satisfaction is immediate and critical.

Although it can contribute to the demonstration of practical skills and has its
advantages in certain situations, to rely on workshop activities alone for the
assessment of practical skills has several disadvantages. It does not give the candidate
the opportunity to experience a work environment and therefore it is only possible to
infer that if the candidate were in a workplace, then probably the candidate
would perform the task competently based on successful performance under
observed conditions in the workshop, or while carrying out practical tasks.

Supplementary questions
An additional technique for supporting formative assessment is to use
supplementary questions. The instructor may observe a candidate performing
correctly, but want to know whether the candidate is likely to always perform in such a
way. Supplementary questions can be used to probe specific areas of a candidate’s
knowledge, about which there may be some doubt, or where the possession of
knowledge is critical.

38 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


They are asked as a natural part of an activity – asking about what the instructor is
seeing – so they are less likely to intimidate the candidate.

However, on their own, supplementary questions are not sufficient


evidence for confirming that a candidate has the practical skills to
carry out tasks to the standard required.

Supplementary questions must be relevant to the task, and must have been
covered in the training. It is unfair to ask about things that have not been taught. A
variety of supplementary questions may be used and different questions can be
used with different candidates, although questions should be similar in construction
and degree of difficulty.

Supplementary questions should be planned to ensure they are relevant and fair.
Open questions should be used, which require the candidate to supply the answer.
Closed questions, which require only ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ answers, should be avoided.

Oral questioning
By asking every candidate the same set of questions, requiring a spoken response,
the assessor obtains evidence of underpinning knowledge to support assessment of
each candidate’s practical skills. By using the same set of questions for each
candidate the same demand is made of each candidate. This is important if more
than one person is involved in the training and assessment of candidates.

The set of questions asked to every candidate is useful evidence to give to the
external verifier to support the completed competence checklists. The external
verifier may use the same questions to randomly check candidates’ knowledge.

It is important not to confuse oral questioning that requires candidates to


give answers to specific questions, from observation of performance that
involves speaking.

In oral questioning the assessor is looking for the ability of the person to give the
required knowledge, using speech. The ability to speak well (clearly, varied pitch and
pace, well constructed sentences) should not be the purpose of the assessment. If
candidates struggle to speak well, assessors should consider alternative, more
appropriate assessment methods.

Distractions and disruptions


Internal distractions come from the candidate. The most likely candidate
distractions are sudden loss of confidence, either immediately before or during the
observation and resistance to assessment – where the candidate argues against or
actually refuses to carry out the task.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 39


The assessor must be alert to candidate signals and respond appropriately. If the
task can be completed, the candidate should be encourage to do so, but if necessary
the candidate may take a break to regain their composure, and re-start the
observation. The assessor must explain that the reason for the break is to allow the
candidate to demonstrate best performance, and that it is not a signal of failure.

Resistance to assessment is more serious. The candidate may resist for a number of
reasons, ranging from nerves (encouragement should be offered), to not
understanding what is required or not being able to perform the tasks (they should
be explained again, and review the learning programme to identify gaps).

Resistance may occur because the candidate does not have confidence in the
assessor’s ability to make a fair judgment. This may be because the assessor:
• has not briefed the candidate properly
• is untrained and/or does not demonstrate an understanding of the process
• has consistently criticised the candidate’s performance and has not offered
constructive training and support.

External distractions during an observation of performance should be minimised


during the planning process. The assessor must minimise disturbance to the
candidate. If it is necessary to interrupt an assessment in order to deal with a
disruption, the assessor should reassure the candidate first and explain what is
happening, stop the assessment and then deal with the problem. When resuming
the assessment, the candidate should be reassured once more. In an extreme
situation, the assessor should agree with the candidate arrangements for repeating
or rescheduling the assessment.

Giving feedback on performance


Feedback on the demonstration of practical skills is essential to explain to the
candidate how the result has been decided.

Feedback should always be a one to one conversation between the candidate and
the assessor. The assessor should have a completed record sheet available to show
to the candidate.

The approach to feedback should be open and constructive and avoid unfriendliness
or intimidation. The purpose of assessment is to find out what a person can do; it
should not be a means to find fault or catch the candidate out through unexpected
tasks and deliberately difficult questions.

A good way of beginning feedback would be to start by saying ‘well done’ and
then asking for the candidate’s evaluation on their own performance. This
approach immediately involves the candidate in the feedback process, showing
value and respect.

40 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


The assessor should explain those activities or products completed well, and
congratulate the candidate on what has been achieved. At this stage it is also useful
to explain why it was achieved. By maintaining a positive approach throughout, a
good relationship should have been developed with the candidate, and the
candidate is prepared to accept any feedback on performance as fair and valid.

Giving feedback on unsuccessful performance is always more difficult, but


equally important.

At no time should the assessor feel under pressure to say that something
has been successfully achieved when it has not.

The assessor should explain what parts of an activity were done well, even if overall
performance did not meet the required outcome. It is necessary to explain
objectively which specific outcomes were not achieved, and why, and to be able to
give examples of what could be done to achieve a successful outcome. During the
assessment notes should be taken so that there is a written record of objective
observations to give to the candidate during the feedback session.

A candidate is most likely to become upset or aggressive if the result is not understood,
or considered to be unfair. Remain calm, objective and supportive. Keep talking to the
candidate until agreement to listen has been reached. Subjective expressions like ‘I
think that…..’ or ‘In my opinion you should have…’ should be avoided.

It is essential to agree with the candidate what the future action will be. If the
outcome of the assessment activity is the successful completion of all competence
requirements, the next stage is to inform the candidate that the successful
performance will be recorded and registered with City & Guilds. If the outcome is
that some of the tasks have not yet been achieved, discuss what still needs to be
practiced, and when an opportunity can be given to repeat the assessment.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 41


Skills to help with employment

Introduction
It is recommended that candidates who are thinking about employment in this
sector should prepare themselves for employment by following a course of study or
other form of preparation based on the following activities.

Tips and hints


Employability
1 Find out about employment opportunities in the industry.
Opportunities: within city, state, nationally and internationally

2 Complete a job search and identify training opportunities.


Training opportunities: eg full time and part time courses, apprenticeship
programmes, on-the-job training, government funded programmes

3 Obtain information about a job.

4 Find out about documents that may be required for a job application and
reasons for including them.
Documents: eg curriculum vitae, education certificates, identification

5 Practice completing job application forms.

6 Practice job-interview techniques.

7 Understand and demonstrate productive work habits and positive attitudes.


Work habits and positive attitudes: general (eg timekeeping, health and
safety, consideration for others) and job specific

8 Identify ethical and responsible work practices.

9 Follow acceptable hygiene practices and adopt a professional appearance.

10 Demonstrate the principles of time management, work simplification, and


teamwork when performing assigned tasks.

11 Understand the importance of taking pride in the quality of work performed.

12 Understand the importance of a drug-free workplace and industry policies


toward drug and alcohol use.

13 Explain to a supervisor the importance of confidentiality in the workplace.

42 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Customer relations skills
14 Demonstrate positive customer relations skills.
Customer relations skills: self-control, appropriate responses to
criticism, courtesy

15 Demonstrate appropriate responses to criticism.

16 Respond to customer complaints in a positive, professional manner.

17 Demonstrate respect for people and property.

Problem-solving skills
18 Practice organising and planning multiple tasks, using various resources such
as time, personnel and materials.

19 Analyse problems, identify the causes and devise plans of action.

20 Identify obstacles and choose the best alternatives.

21 Create new and better ways to perform tasks.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 43


Safety for workers

Introduction
Going to work for the first time can be exciting and a bit strange. It can sometimes be
dangerous. This is true whether you work in a factory or an office or on a farm or
building site. Fortunately most dangers are recognisable and can be avoided.

Your own workplace will also have its own safety rules – perhaps in a booklet or on a
notice board. Some you will be told. Make sure you know and obey them.

Remember these four important rules:


✓ Learn how to work safely
✓ Obey safety rules
✓ Ask your supervisor if you don’t understand any instruction
✓ Report to your supervisor anything that seems dangerous, damaged or faulty

Games and practical jokes


Work is not the place for practical jokes or silly tricks. Serious injuries and even
deaths have been caused this way.

Tidiness
Keep work areas and walk ways tidy and clear. Do not leave things lying around which
people can trip over or bump into. Wet patches on the floor should be mopped up
straight away or some one might slip and fall.

Hygiene
Always wash your hands, using soap and water or a suitable cleanser, before meals
and before and after using the toilet.

It is recommended that you use barrier cream to protect your skin when you are
doing dirty jobs.

Dry your hands carefully on the towels and driers provided. Do not wipe them on old
rags or on your clothes.

Protective equipment and clothing


Use all protective equipment and clothing provided, such as ear and eye protectors,
dust masks, overalls and safety shoes, helmets or boots. It may feel strange at first.
Keep using it and you will get used to it. Ask your supervisor to replace any item that
gets damaged or worn.

Moving about the workplace


Walk, do not run or rush about.

Use the walk ways provided and never take short cuts.

Look out for and obey warning notices and safety signs.

44 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Only drive a works vehicle if you have been trained to use it and your supervisor
allows you to use it.

Never hitch a ride on a vehicle not made to carry passengers. Do not stand on a fork
lift truck or on a tractor trailer drawbar.

Lifting and carrying


You must learn how to lift correctly. Only lift or carry what you can easily manage.
When lifting, get a good grip, lift smoothly and close to your body.

Get help if you are not sure you can lift or carry something safely and easily by
yourself. Use trolleys or wheelbarrows where these are provided.

Ladders
Do not use ladders with split, missing or loose rungs. Use proper ladders.

Always make sure that the ladder is placed in the right position, at the right angle and
cannot slip.

If working from a ladder, do not lean too far to the side, come down and move the
ladder to a more convenient place.

Always use ladders, scaffolding or lifts to reach high places. Never hitch a lift in a
crane bucket or on the forks of a lift truck.

Roofs
Roofs may be fragile or the tiles loose. Never go on to a roof unless you are told to do
so by your supervisor and have been shown the precautions you should take.

Compressed air
Only use compressed air when your supervisor tells you to.

Do not use it for cleaning machines, benches or clothing.

Electricity
Remember electricity can kill or cause severe burns. Treat it with care.

Make sure you understand your supervisor’s instructions before using any electrical
equipment. It you do not understand, ask your supervisor to show you again.

Always switch off before connecting or disconnecting any electrical appliance.

Machinery
Operate only machines you have been trained to use and told to use.

Make sure you can reach the controls easily and know how to stop any machine
you use.

Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services 45


Safety guards are fitted to machines to protect you and must be used.

Wait until a machine has stopped and has been switched off before you clean or
clear it. Dangling chains or loose clothing could get caught up in the moving parts.
Keep long hair tucked under a cap or tied back.

Do not distract other people who are using machines.

Tell your supervisor at once if you think a machine is not working properly.

Harmful substances
Learn to recognise the hazard warning signs or labels which tell you about the type
of danger. They should tell you if a substance is poisonous, easily set on fire, or can
cause burns.

Follow all instructions given on the container or by your supervisor.

Before you use a substance, find out what to do if it spills onto your skin or clothes.

If you are splashed with a chemical wash it off at once in the way your have been
shown. Then report to your supervisor or whoever is responsible for first aid.

Overalls or protective clothing that get soaked or badly stained by harmful


substances must not be taken home from work.

Do not put liquids and substances into unlabelled or wrongly labelled bottles and
containers such as lemonade bottles or empty tins. This can be dangerous to
everyone you work with.

Fire
Take care when handling petrol or other flammable substances. Keep them away
from naked flames or sparks. Do not smoke.

Do not throw rubbish or cigarette ends and matches in corners, or under benches.

Obey ‘No Smoking’ rules.

First aid
Make sure you know the first aid arrangements for your workplace.

Report any injury, however slight, to your supervisor.

Always be careful.

46 Skills Proficiency awards in Basic Housekeeping Services


Published by City & Guilds
1 Giltspur Street
London
EC1A 9DD
T +44 (0)20 7294 3505
F +44 (0)20 7294 2425
[email protected]
www.cityandguilds.com

City & Guilds is a registered charity


established to promote education
and training

WP-97-0018

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