In an era where more and more states are legalizing marijuana for both medicinal and recreational use, hotels find themselves navigating uncharted territory when it comes to dealing with weed users on their premises.

Ensuring a pleasant and safe environment for all guests while adhering to the evolving legal landscape can be a complex task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore effective strategies for hotels to manage weed users on their premises, ensuring a harmonious stay for all.

Establish Clear Boundaries

One of the primary steps hotels should take is to establish a clear drug use policy that explicitly includes all marijuana products within its scope. Many hotels have already implemented “no smoking” policies that encompass both tobacco and marijuana use, recognizing the potential disturbances and health risks associated with smoking in enclosed spaces.

However, with the variety of consumption methods available, it’s vital to ensure that the policy addresses all possible scenarios.

Including Vaping and Edibles

While smoking marijuana is the most recognizable form of consumption, vaping, and edibles have become increasingly popular alternatives. To maintain clarity, hotels should articulate their stance on vaping and e-cigarettes within their smoking policy.

Since marijuana can be discreetly consumed through edibles, it is essential to acknowledge this in the policy. While searching guests is not a practical option, a well-crafted policy serves as a preventive measure against misuse.

Training Staff for Detection

To effectively enforce the hotel’s drug use policy, staff should receive training on recognizing the signs of marijuana use. These signs can include the distinctive smell of marijuana, red eyes, and slowed movements. By educating your team to identify these indicators, you empower them to take action promptly when they suspect a guest is using marijuana within their room.

In the event that staff members suspect a guest is violating the hotel’s drug use policy, it is crucial to have a reporting system in place. Immediate reporting to management ensures that necessary steps can be taken to address the situation promptly and professionally. This proactive approach helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all guests.

Train Them For Deep Cleanings

Training them to get rid of the smell of marijuana is certainly something you will want to do, unfortunately, the more time that passes the smoke of marijuana buried in the objects in the rooms will be much more difficult to remove.

To remove the weed smell from hotel rooms you can pass the following tips to your crew:

1. Ventilation is Key: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the room. Utilize fans to facilitate the removal of any lingering odors.
2. Air Fresheners: Strategically place a few air fresheners around the room to create a pleasant atmosphere. Opt for mild fragrances that promote a relaxed ambiance rather than overwhelming scents.
3. Natural Odor Absorbers: Employ natural odor absorbers such as baking soda, vinegar, or charcoal in bowls. These organic solutions are highly effective at neutralizing unwanted odors.
4. Refresh Bedding: Strip the bed and launder all bedding items. A fresh set of bedding can make a significant difference in eliminating any persistent odors.
5. Professional Cleaning Services: When all else fails, enlist the expertise of professional cleaners experienced in tackling challenging odors. These specialists possess the knowledge and tools needed to restore a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

Adhering to State Laws

Marijuana laws are dynamic, and they vary significantly from one state to another. Hotels must stay well-informed and stay updated with current marijuana regulations in their respective states. It is not sufficient to rely solely on federal regulations, as state laws often take precedence in matters of marijuana use. By staying informed, hotels can avoid legal complications and operate within the boundaries of the law.

Offering Alternatives

When a guest’s marijuana use in their room becomes disruptive to other guests, it’s essential to have alternatives available. This may involve offering the guest a different room that is not in proximity to other guests or, in extreme cases, suggesting an alternative hotel. This approach allows the hotel to balance the comfort and satisfaction of all guests while addressing the needs of the guests in question.

Educating Guests on Cannabis Etiquette

Hotels can play a proactive role in mitigating issues by educating their guests on cannabis etiquette. Ensuring that guests are aware of the hotel’s policies regarding marijuana use is the first step. Guests should also be encouraged to be respectful of other guests who may have different preferences or concerns.

Additionally, guests should be reminded to adhere to the state’s laws regarding marijuana use. This education can help prevent conflicts and ensure a more enjoyable stay for everyone.

Conclusion

Navigating the presence of weed users on hotel premises can indeed be challenging, given the evolving legal landscape and diverse consumption methods. However, with a well-defined drug use policy, staff training, awareness of state laws, provision of alternative accommodations, and guest education on cannabis etiquette, hotels can effectively manage these challenges.

By implementing these strategies, hotels can strike a balance that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests.