Hotel workers' unions are looking to equip housekeepers and other staff members with "panic buttons" to help protect them from guests.
Bloomberg reported that several cities have been implementing devices that workers can rely on to alert security to an emergency. For example, in Seattle, hotel staff members can carry electronic whistles, GPS-equipped buttons and iPads with emergency alert features.
Meanwhile, Chicago's City Council voted unanimously to require similar devices earlier this year, while New York City housekeepers in hundreds of unionized hotels across the city have been carrying panic buttons since 2013.
Bloomberg outlined a series of disturbing personal accounts involving guest misconduct, including those of a 17-year housekeeping veteran who admits she doesn't "trust any of the guests."
"The employer is responsible for having a harassment-free workplace, even if the harassment is coming from a customer or client," Equal Employment Opportunity Commission commissioner, Chai Feldblum told the publication.
The American Hotel and Lodging Association is onboard with the Chicago vote. "Safety and security-whether for our employees or guests-is top priority," said the group's vice president for communications, Rosanna Maietta.
Nonetheless, the AHLA is opposed to the Seattle law requiring hotels to log complaints made against guests.
"You might have just gotten out of the shower and the room attendant walks into the room- there could be endless scenarios," AHLA vice president for government affairs, Brian Crawford told Bloomberg. "Forcing hotels to just keep a running list of guests who are accused of harassment is not something that we want to be involved in."
The challenge for the hotel industry is ensuring a safe environment without violating guests' rights. It remains to be seen where the line will be drawn.
Earlier this year, six current or former female employees filed a lawsuit against New York's Plaza Hotel, accusing the property's ownership and management of abetting incessant sexual harassment.
A troubling report from nonprofit organization Polaris also found that "victims of labor trafficking have been found in hospitality businesses such as hotels, motels, resorts, or casinos working as front desk attendants, bell staff, and, most frequently, in housekeeping."
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