A Fargo hotel has received an order to cease using guest hot tubs for soaking stained bed sheets. This directive follows a viral video that brought the unusual cleaning method to public attention. Health officials are now considering new regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Expressway Suites in Fargo used guest hot tubs to soak stained linens.
- A viral video led to an investigation by Fargo Cass Public Health.
- The hotel has been ordered to stop the practice immediately.
- No fines were issued as the practice did not violate existing codes.
- New regulations are expected to address this type of incident.
Investigation Launched After Viral Video
The Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) Department initiated an investigation after a video circulated widely on social media. The footage showed an employee at Expressway Suites collecting bed sheets and placing them into the hotel's guest hot tub for soaking.
The video quickly gained significant attention online, raising questions about hygiene practices at the establishment. Health department officials confirmed they learned of the practice through these social media reports.
Fact Check
- The incident involved Expressway Suites in Fargo, North Dakota.
- The cleaning method involved soaking heavily stained linens in a guest hot tub.
- The practice was exposed via a viral social media video.
Former Employee Confirms Long-Standing Practice
Following initial reports, a former employee of Expressway Suites came forward. This individual, who worked at the hotel in 2010, stated that using the hot tub for soaking heavily stained linens was a standard procedure at the time.
The former staff member recounted instructions to collect heavily stained items in a box. These items would then be placed into the hot tub to soak and remove stains.
"They just told us to put the really stained items in a box and that would later be put in the hot tub to soak and get the stains out," the former employee explained.
The employee also mentioned that staff found the practice unusual. Despite their reservations, they complied with management's instructions.
"Everybody thought it was weird and gross, but everybody just wanted a job so we just did what we were told," she added.
Background Information
Public health departments are responsible for overseeing sanitation and safety standards in public accommodations like hotels. Their role typically involves inspecting facilities and responding to complaints to ensure public health is protected.
Health Department Issues Immediate Order to Stop
Grant Larson, a representative from Fargo Cass Public Health, confirmed the department's swift action. An inspector visited the facility shortly after the reports surfaced.
The hotel received a direct order to discontinue the practice of soaking linens in the jacuzzi. They must now find an alternative method, such as using a different basin for soaking.
"We had an inspector visit the facility at the end of the day, and just to talk through the process... they just have to stop or cease soaking the linens in the jacuzzi and go to another means of a different basin," Larson stated.
This immediate cessation ensures that the practice no longer continues at the hotel.
No Fines Issued, New Regulations Expected
Despite the unusual nature of the incident, the hotel did not violate any existing city codes. Health department officials noted that this type of cleaning method was unprecedented in their experience.
The health director, who has been with the department for 28 years, confirmed this was the first time such a practice had come to their attention.
Because the health or safety of patrons was not determined to be at immediate risk, no fines or penalties were issued to Expressway Suites. Larson explained that the absence of specific regulations covering this exact scenario meant no violation occurred.
However, the unprecedented nature of the incident means it will likely lead to the creation of new regulations. These new rules would aim to prevent similar situations from happening in the future, ensuring clearer guidelines for hotel hygiene practices.
Impact on Public Trust and Future Standards
This incident highlights the importance of transparent hygiene practices in the hospitality industry. Viral videos and social media can quickly bring attention to issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The expected new regulations will provide a framework for hotels to follow, ensuring guest safety and maintaining public trust. It also serves as a reminder for establishments to regularly review and update their cleaning protocols to meet evolving public expectations and health standards.
