By Glen Greenawalt, Contributing Writer

Environmental services (EVS) managers in healthcare facilities know that hiring for housekeeping and food service positions can be more challenging than in other industries. Government regulations and the literal life-and-death stakes involved in medical facilities mean employees need to be well-chosen and well-trained. 

For these reasons, EVS managers know it is important to work with a staffing partner that can provide the right employees with the right training at the right time. What makes healthcare settings different? Why is a trusted staffing partner so important? What should managers look for in a long-term staffing relationship? 

Healthcare settings have special circumstances. They must meet stringent standards for cleanliness, food safety and workplace safety from The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and local and state health departments. Healthcare facilities also must maintain accreditation by one or more of several governing bodies. 

Keeping a healthcare facility clean and its food service running smoothly is vital for the protection and comfort of patients, visitors and staff. But it also is a vital part of meeting all regulatory standards. 

Staffing considerations 

Housekeeping and food service staff in healthcare settings have to follow detailed training programs. They must be able to understand which products should be used in specific areas and for certain types of cleaning. They are required to understand and follow safety protocols for dealing with items contaminated with bodily fluids. 

Food service workers must go beyond the basics necessary in a restaurant. They must prepare items that patients can safely eat and ensure that the right meals get to the right patients. 

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A staffing partner can help EVS managers obtain temporary employees who are up to these tasks, and they can identify and recruit permanent workers for these positions. The key is in the relationship. When an EVS manager and staffing firm work together long-term, the staffing agency can better understand the manager’s needs and can supply qualified candidates who are ready to work in their highly regulated environment. 

The manager does not have to go back to the drawing board every time. They can communicate their requirements to their staffing partner, who will find the employees they need. Over time, the staffing partner is better able to anticipate the manager’s needs and will have a pipeline of high-quality candidates ready. 

Personnel partners 

What should EVS managers look for in a staffing partner? 

Knowledge of the regulated environment. EVS managers should look for a partner that has experience with healthcare facilities. They should have a deep knowledge of the skills and abilities candidates need to be effective in a medical setting. Managers can ask the agency about their experience in medical facilities and ask them about their knowledge of pertinent regulations. 

Proven record. Managers should ask for references. A reputable staffing agency will be able to share the names of satisfied clients. Managers also need to seek a partner with a record of providing the types of employees that will be needed. If a prospective agency is hesitant to provide references, that can be a signal to look elsewhere. 

Clear communication. Being able to share information in a clear and timely manner is the foundation of a good working relationship. Managers should look for a staffing agency that has designated representatives, not just a chatbot. With a specific person to contact, any problems or questions that arise can be ironed out quickly. 

Proper classification of temporary staff. Using a cloud-based staffing app that provides 1099 independent contractors can expose a client to fines, penalties and legal action if those workers are misclassified. Staffing agencies that classify their temps as W-2 employees, not 1099 independent contractors, are a much safer choice. 

Commitment to a long-term partnership. Managers should look for an agency that wants to work together for a long time, not just provide one-and-done staffing for a specific need. Building up a relationship with a trusted staffing partner pays off in better candidates, quicker turnaround on orders and smoother communication. 

With a reliable staffing partner, EVS managers can focus on their main responsibilities and spend less time posting positions, vetting candidates and conducting interviews. They can trust their partner to handle those tasks and provide the candidates they need. 

Glen Greenawalt is CEO of LGC Hospitality, a national staffing firm headquartered in Indianapolis with 16 branches.