Resource Management | Class 12 Home Science Notes

STAFFING AND ORGANISATION OF HOUSEKEEPING DEPARTMENT

Efficient functioning of the housekeeping department requires appropriate staffing and a clear organisational structure. The hierarchy typically includes the Executive Housekeeper at the top, responsible for managing the department through judicious use of manpower, materials, money, time, and other resources. The Assistant Housekeeper supports the Executive Housekeeper and may be assigned per shift in large hotels, preparing duty schedules and checking cleanliness. The Desk Control Supervisor coordinates with the front office regarding guest departures, ensures vacated rooms are cleaned, and manages information flow; this desk operates 24 hours. Floor Supervisors oversee cleanliness and maintenance of guest rooms, corridors, staircases, and floor pantries on each floor. Room Attendants perform actual cleaning of guest rooms and bathrooms, while Housemen handle heavy cleaning tasks like vacuuming, mopping, sweeping, and furniture shifting. The Public Area Supervisor maintains cleanliness of public spaces such as entrances, corridors, banquet halls, and restaurants, coordinating work through Housemen. Florists or Gardeners maintain the hotel’s garden and flower arrangements. The Linen Room/Uniform Room Supervisor manages the supply, storage, issue, and cleanliness of linen and uniforms. Cleaning requires planning, skilled staff, correct procedures, appropriate equipment, and knowledge of cleaning agents. Various materials like wood, granite, marble, ceramic tiles, and metals require specific cleaning methods and agents. Common equipment includes vacuum cleaners, brushes, brooms, mops, and trolleys. Cleaning agents include water, ammonia, vinegar, soaps, detergents, washing soda, abrasives, polishes, and acids. Careful selection and use of cleaning agents are essential to avoid damage.

📊 Diagram: Fig. 17.6: General Organisational Chart of a Housekeeping Department

🧪 Activity: Activity 1: Students divided into four groups to observe and learn cleaning procedures, methods for cleaning various surfaces, market survey of cleaning equipment and agents, and note details such as steps, tools, costs, and precautions.

🔗 Connection: This section connects to the next section on the linen and uniform room and flower arrangement within housekeeping.