How Panic Button Laws in Santa Monica Are Making an Impact

In California, hotel workers are becoming increasingly vocal about wanting better safety measures in the workplace. This push for legislation is a result of the hospitality industry having one of the highest rates of sexual assault or harassment in the workplace. Several cities in the state have approved a form of a 'hotel worker protection ordinance' that provides a hotel panic button to employees. Those cities with effective ordinances are:

• Glendale
• Long Beach
• Los Angeles
• Oakland
• Sacramento
• Santa Monica
• West Hollywood

Overview

As of January 1, 2020, the Chapter 4.67 Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance went into effect in Santa Monica. This ordinance requires that every hotel in Santa Monica implements employee safety devices, regardless of size. These devices, along with hotels committing to the 5-Star Promise, an initiative designed to enhance the safety of hotel employees, are the driving forces that have been shaping positive change in the workplace. 

Summary of Hotel Employer Responsibilities

Under this law, every hotel in Santa Monica is required to provide a personal security device to any hotel worker assigned to work alone in a guest room or restroom facility.

Santa Monica's panic button laws require hotels follow the following guidelines:

1. All hotels must supply hotel employees who work alone, whether regularly or on one-off occasions, with a panic button or ESD. This includes employees who work in guest rooms and bathrooms, among other areas of the hotel.
2. The employee safety device must be provided to the employee at no charge and must be able to discreetly alert security to threatening individuals.
3. The panic button must be comfortable to wear, easy to use, and have modern GPS technology so security can easily locate an employee in the hotel.
4. The hotel must utilize the city's Public Housekeeping Training Organization to provide regular training for their staff using the ESDs.

What Features Do Efficient Panic Buttons Have?

As the number of laws protecting hotel staff continue to increase, so do the options for panic button devices. However, it's crucial to find a device that not only meets the needs of your hotel size and layout but also caters to the specific requirements of your employees. When searching for a panic button device, certain features are essential and should not be overlooked. These features include:

• The device must be user-friendly for the average hotel employee. Your staff should have no problems using the device and using it quickly to call for help.
• The device must be wearable without the employee having to sacrifice comfort. The employee should also be able to wear the device without it drawing attention from others.
• The device should be able to contact and connect with managers, supervisors, and most importantly, security. The device should do this within seconds and without alerting passersbys or guests.

Safety and Security Are Only a Click Away With React Mobile

Ensuring the safety of your staff is of utmost importance, especially in hotels, where many employees tend to work independently. However, finding the right panic button solution that meets your needs and complies with Santa Monica law can be a daunting task. That's why React Mobile offers a variety of panic button devices that are not only easy to use but also packed with features to keep your employees safe. From real-time location tracking to seamless alert activation, our devices offer the ultimate peace of mind for both your staff and management.

Our team is dedicated to providing you with the support and resources needed to ensure the success of your panic button implementation. Book a free demo with us today and take the first step towards a safer workplace: https://www.reactmobile.com/demo-request.