COVID-19 Screening For Luxury Home Rentals Staff And Contractors In A Regional First

As countries are slowly re-opening and returning to a ‘new normal’, Dubai-based hospitality firm Maison Privee is the first to implement a mandatory COVID-19 test program for all employees and suppliers. All guest facing staff and contractors working with the firm will be required to undergo testing using the COVID-19 IgM Rapid Testing Kit.

“The health and safety of guests is our number one priority. That’s why we are rolling out a screening program to ensure that staff who interact with guests are regularly tested for COVID-19,” said Rami Shamaa, Co-Founder and Managing Director. “We will also extend this mandatory testing to contractors who carry out cleaning or maintenance work in any Maison Privee properties,” Mr Shamaa continued.

The Hecin COVID-19 IgM Antibody Rapid Test Kit is an immunochromatographic assay for rapid, qualitative detection of COVID-19 IgM Antibody in human whole blood, serum, plasma and fingertip blood sample. The test is to be used as an aid in the diagnosis of coronavirus infection disease (COVID-19), which is caused by 2019-nCoV. It will be used alongside other precautionary measures including temperature checks, use of PPE and social distancing to protect staff and guests.

“Having a suite of measures, including rapid COVID-19 diagnostics, to ensure the health and safety of employees and staff is a regional first and we are very proud that Maison Privee is taking the lead on this in our industry,” said Paul Mallee, Co-Founder and Managing Director.

These policies come as a welcome initiative representing the first use of such tests in Dubai’s hospitality industry. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), testing is the best way to monitor and manage the pandemic until an effective coronavirus vaccine becomes available.

Other measures implemented by the company include a requirement for certification of all cleaning contractors by Dubai Municipality’s Health & Safety Department. “All surfaces are thoroughly disinfected including all touch-points, such as light switches, remotes, door handles and kitchen utensils. It’s very important that our guests feel safe staying with us, knowing that we’re doing everything possible to reduce their risk of infection,” says Mr Mallee.