Hotel operations are dynamic, with multiple departments, diverse guest needs, and vast facilities. This complexity also brings unique challenges, as hotels must handle everything from unexpected emergencies to managing everyday risks.
One common hurdle across these challenges is miscommunication. Specifically, delays in communication, unclear instructions, or technological problems like poor network signals, turn manageable situations into chaos.
In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of streamlined communication in hotel safety, how it resolves everyday and emergency challenges, and why efficient solutions are becoming must-haves for top hotels.
Closing Communication Gaps in Daily Hotel Tasks
Everyday hotel tasks require smooth team collaboration in order to boost guest satisfaction. From getting new towels delivered quickly to letting valet know a guest is ready for their vehicle, being able to communicate in real time is important.
This can also apply to safety issues. If a housekeeper notices a broken railing or wet floor, they need a way to get in touch with maintenance immediately. Delays in reporting these issues can lead to larger accidents.
Modern communication devices help address these gaps, allowing employees to instantly get in touch with the right department, without having to leave an incident to track someone down.
Reducing Risks in High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas like lobbies, banquet halls, and pool decks are hotspots for potential accidents. Wet floors, misplaced furniture, or electrical hazards can lead to slips, trips, or other injuries. According to Relay’s 2024 Hospitality Report, 63% of survey respondents believe slips and falls are the biggest guest safety concern.
It’s important employees are trained to spot and address safety concerns such as these. Employees who see a potential wet or dangerous environment should alert the maintenance staff, who in turn, can take immediate action to mitigate risks, like placing warning signs or redirecting guests to safer areas.
The result? A safer environment that reassures guests and gives employees the confidence to handle issues. This proactive approach builds trust with guests, who notice the hotel’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment.
Boosting Security and Preventing Threats
Threats like unauthorized access, theft, or even violence can jeopardize the safety of guests and employees. To tackle such situations, employees should quickly report suspicious behavior or unauthorized entry to the security team.
These streamlined communications can lead to appropriate action like locking down certain areas, notifying law enforcement, or dispatching personnel to investigate. Such actions can minimize risks and maintain a secure, welcoming environment for everyone.
Faster Responses When Seconds Matter
During emergencies, every second counts. However, traditional communication methods like phone calls or texting often fall short in getting a quick response during high-pressure scenarios. People may not have their phone on them while working, or notifications may be too quiet to hear.
That’s why push-to-talk (PTT) devices are often the better frontline team communication solution during emergencies. Beyond their reliability, PTT devices are often equipped with additional emergency response features, like a panic button and indoor location tracking.
Should an incident such as a kitchen fire break out, an employee can call for help with the press of a button and share their location across teams within seconds. This way, help can respond immediately, and others know which area to avoid and redirect guests from. It can also help coordinate an evacuation if one is necessary, keeping both guests and employees safe.
Learn how Fairfield and TownePlace Suites of Norfolk bridges communication gaps and coordinates emergencies swiftly with Relay.
Empowering Staff with Training and Communication Tools
The tools you choose are only as good as the people using them. Research shows that 20 hours of annual safety training has a 68% likelihood for employees to follow safety protocols. To ensure a safe environment, hotels must invest in training their staff to use their communication devices effectively.
Proper onboarding and regular training sessions can familiarize employees with the functions and capabilities of communication tools, while strategies like simulated emergency drills can provide practice for coordinating their actions in real time.
Conclusion: Turning Chaos into Coordination
In the hospitality industry, safety depends on clear and immediate communication. Whether it’s preventing accidents, responding to emergencies, or addressing security concerns, advanced communication devices provide the backbone for coordinated action.
With these devices, hotel staff can act decisively, turning potentially chaotic situations into manageable ones. Also, the right training can improve emergency protocols, protect guests and employees, and build an environment of trust and reliability.
For a deeper dive into how cutting-edge communication tools can transform hotel safety, download our eBook, Rethinking Hotel Safety with Cutting-edge Communication Tools. It’s packed with insights and practical strategies to help your team stay prepared for any challenge.
