Panic buttons can also be useful in medical or police emergencies, when a hotel worker needs help from emergency services but can’t reach a phone. Since much of the conversation around hotel panic buttons surrounds sexual harassment and #metoo, time is of the essence. Panic buttons rely on some form of monitoring to be effective, and the quality of monitoring directly impacts the efficiency of the response. Some municipalities specify what size hotel requires panic buttons, while others itemize fines for failure to comply. This resource keeps track of major ordinances in the US. Simultaneously, many of these ordinances are making their way into c ollective bargaining agreements for employees. Several other cities and states followed suit, prompting 17 leading hotel companies to sign the American Hotel and Lodging Association’s 5-Star Promise. In June 2019, New Jersey became the first state to legally mandate hotels to provide wearable panic buttons to hotel staff. Regulations surrounding hotel panic buttons Rather than having to reach for a phone to contact security, they can simply press a button, and without delay receive assistance as quickly as possible. Panic buttons give hotel workers the ability to call for help when they might not otherwise be able to. From there, security can dispatch resources to assist, whether it’s their internal security team or calling first responders for help. These alerts go to a central monitoring station, typically the hotel’s security office, who receive certain data about the alert, including the GPS location down to the floor and room, and sometimes even information about the worker pressing the button.

Hotel panic buttons are usually worn by a clip that can be pressed to get help in emergencies.They’re GPS-enabled devices that send alerts by either bluetooth, cellular, or wi-fi connection. For example, if a member of the cleaning staff is confronted or cornered by a guest, they can trigger their panic button to get help right away. These panic buttons can provide staff immediate access to help when they’re in dangerous or vulnerable situations. Hotel security is notified, and they can contact authorities when necessary. Whenever they feel unsafe, or are in uncomfortable situations, they can trigger the button to call for help. Hotel panic buttons are safety devices specifically designed for hospitality professionals. To get the most out of these devices, hospitality chains are investing in panic buttons that are connected directly to public safety, to ensure first responders can get to the right room at the right time should staff need emergency assistance. Some states are even requiring that these devices are made available to staff by law. Many hotels are investing in new ways to keep their staff safe, including wearable panic buttons for emergencies.

Protecting these staff when they’re most vulnerable is a priority for many hotels, whether it’s from sexual harassment or COVID-19 exposure. The nature of hospitality work means that much of it is done alone: from housekeeping staff moving from room to room, to night-shift front desk attendants checking in late arrivals.

Gps panic button