Health and Safety Concerns Among University Housekeepers

Following a grievance filed by housekeepers in the lowest pay grades, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill commissioned a report from the School of Public Health to assess the effects of employment policies and practices on housekeepers. This Housekeepers' Health Study involved five areas of data collection including a review of prior studies about health conditions among housekeepers, a review of UNC work policies, focus groups, walk-through assessments, and a health survey. Photographs were taken during the walk-through assessments to document observed hazards and work conditions. Almost 70% (n = 210) of the UNC housekeepers responded to the health survey, which was personally delivered by the researcher to each housekeeping department. Six focus groups were also conducted where concerns about working conditions were discussed. A number of significant health hazards were identified, including exposure to blood products, poor security at night, extreme temperatures, lifting heavy equipment, fire hazards, and inconsistent safety and training programs. We also identified poor working conditions such as dirty break rooms and lack of opportunities for advancement. Almost half of the respondents reported that they did not feel respected for what they do. Most felt that they could talk to their supervisor about poor working conditions, but half felt that they did not get enough support. A mix of qualitative and quantitative techniques allowed us to successfully engage workers who are often considered difficult to reach, and to document a number significant health hazards and concerns.