Not all man down alarms are the same. Some come in the form of wearable lanyards or bracelets, more commonly used by professions such as teachers or healthcare workers. Others are built into workplace communication devices, like walkie talkies and smart radios.

Smart radios are frequently used in the workplace to aid communication, yet have the added benefit of helping keep workers safe. Used in many industries – from construction to hospitality – these devices offer benefits to employers and their staff.

In this article, we’ll explain how man down alarms work, who can benefit from a lone worker device, and the best lone worker safety devices to use in a workplace.

What is a Man Down Alarm?

Man down alarms (also known as lone worker devices) are designed for people who work alone to use in an emergency to get help. Alarms typically have a panic button that can be pressed to immediately get the attention of a responder.

Man down alarms come in different formats, including:

• Wearable devices (e.g. a lanyard or wrist strap)
• Built into communication technology (e.g. a walkie talkie or smart radio)

Smart radios (like Relay) are used in several industries, including hospitality, construction, manufacturing, maintenance, education, and healthcare. These devices are primarily used to facilitate team communication and increase worker productivity, but they can also be used to promote better workplace safety.

Pros of a Man Down Alarm For Businesses

Workplaces and employees can certainly benefit from adopting personal safety devices for lone workers. Key benefits include:

Improved safety measures for lone workers

The primary benefit of a man down alarm is that it enables employees to get help quickly if there’s an emergency. This is particularly beneficial for lone workers, as it enables them to call for help when no one is around. This can improve the safety measures of a workplace and support the implementation of safety mandates.

Reduced risk of fatal accidents

A panic button or man down alarm won’t necessarily reduce the risks of accidents in the workplace, but it can help ensure medical assistance reaches a worker quickly. This can help keep workers safe and, in some cases, may reduce the risk of workplace accidents becoming serious or leading to a fatality.

For lone workers, the risk of serious injury or fatality in the workplace can be particularly high. This may be due to how they are less likely to receive fast help in an emergency if they are on their own.

Studies find that lone workers can be less likely to practice safe behaviors due to having to self-observe and self-manage. With no one around to spot or challenge poor or unsafe practices, they can be more at risk of injury.

Rapid response in an emergency

Man down alarms aren’t just designed to be used by lone workers. A panic button is suitable for most situations where staff need fast help or to report an emergency.

For example, if a customer displays threatening behavior, a panic button can be used to discreetly request help, which can help diffuse the situation and prevent a workplace assault.

Or if a fire breaks out in the workplace, panic buttons can be used by staff who are not close to a fire alarm to alert others. This can enable faster evacuation for staff and/or customers, which can potentially save lives.

Staff feel safer in the workplace

Employees must be kept as safe as possible in the workplace in line with OSHA guidelines, but it’s also important for staff to feel like their employer cares about their safety. A lone worker device can help staff feel safer.

An Ansell survey highlighted that 94% of workers want their employers to prioritize their physical safety. If your workforce doesn’t feel safe due to a lack of safety measures, they may leave to find an employer who does more.

Accidents in the workplace – even minor ones – can also impact employees. It can lead to low staff morale, which can lead to more accidents at work, with reports of 64% more accidents involving disengaged workers vs engaged workers.

Who Can Benefit From a Lone Worker Monitoring System?

In 2023, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 5,283 fatal workplace injuries were recorded, with a worker dying every 99 minutes from a work-related injury. The construction industry saw the most fatalities, along with warehousing, waste management, retail, and cleaning/maintenance industries.

Injuries are mostly caused by falls, slips, trips, and transportation accidents. In the retail sector, approximately 30% of fatalities were as a result of a homicide.

Based on this information, the types of workers that can benefit from carrying a man down alarm (or other lone worker monitoring device, like Relay) include:

• Construction workers (including roofers, builders, and surveyors)
• Retail and hospitality staff (including hotels, venues, and large stores)
• Maintenance, machinery, and facilities workers
• Warehouse workers
• Airport staff
• Security personnel
• Delivery drivers
• Window cleaners

How Does a Man Down Radio Work?

There’s a reason many businesses are choosing radios with man down functionalities over traditional man down alarms. Not only are they combining technologies into a device their workers already rely on, they want the ability to communicate with their lone working employees after an incident has occurred to learn more about the situation.

While different man down radios may vary in how you operate them, man down radios typically work as follows. Once activated, it sends an alarm signal to Relay devices designated as emergency responders, sharing the employee’s name and accurate location in the process. The responder can talk to the worker (via push to talk) to understand the issue and send the right help.

Read more about how Relay can be leveraged in man down scenarios:

Send instant panic alert to responders

After pressing the central push-to-talk button on the radio 5+ times, an alert is sent to a designated responder in real-time. This could be a manager on-site/nearby or an identified person who handles panic alerts, like a security guard.

Provides accurate location

Obtaining the worker’s location quickly is crucial. Relay contains built-in GPS and Bluetooth beacon tracking technology. This enables responders to pinpoint the location of a worker once the panic button has been activated.

Enables two-way talk

Relay’s communication device combines a panic alert system with two-way communication. This means both parties can communicate with each other in real time to send or receive the best help.

What are the Best Lone Worker Safety Devices? Here’s Why You Should Consider Relay

At Relay, our smart radios offer an all-in-one solution to enhancing workplace safety and improving team communications, particularly for businesses with lone workers. Built with worker safety in mind, our smart radios provide:

• Instant panic alerts: Our devices send alerts in less than a second, making Relay one of the fastest panic alarms available
• Two-way communication: Unlike other man down alarms, Relay combines two-way communications and panic buttons in one device to enable better responses
• Location tracking: Relay offers real-time location tracking at any time, allowing you to quickly identify worker locations indoors or outdoors
• Reliable connectivity: We offer unparalleled reliability, with triple cell carrier connectivity and redundancy with WiFi
• Compliance: We comply with legislation in multiple regions, as well as brand mandates, to help your business meet requirements
• Live language translation: A built-in live language translation feature reduces language barriers and enables clear communication in critical situations
• On the go visibility: Our Relay app enables managers to identify the location and communicate with employees nationwide, whether there’s an emergency or not

Discover how Relay can benefit your business and improve worker safety for your employees at your own pace in our on-demand video demo center.

FAQs

What is Classed as Lone Working?

A lone worker in the US is generally defined as someone who works:

• In an isolated area
• In a confined space
• In a remote location
• Without direct supervision
• Without close contact with other employees
• With customers, but no other employees or managers
• Off-peak hours

Are Walkie Talkies Reliable in an Emergency?

Walkie-talkies enable staff to call for help or share their location in an emergency. However, walkie-talkies are not necessarily reliable.

Walkie talkies are renowned for their poor and intermittent signal. In an emergency, clear communication is key to securing the right help. If a responder can’t understand or hear the SOS properly, this can leave a worker at serious risk.

Plus, in some cases, the worker may not be able to communicate their location effectively, which can increase the risk of serious injury or even lead to a fatality.

Read our comparison on walkie talkies vs smart radios.

Stay Safe and Connected With Relay

Staff safety is paramount, and Relay is the ideal solution for businesses that need a two-in-one solution to workplace safety and enhanced communications.

With an innovative dashboard that’s designed for system administration and alert management, we make communication simple for teams with lone workers.

If you’re ready to find a better way to enhance safety for your workers, book a one-on-one demo with one of our experts today.

The post Man Down Alarms: How Do They Work and What are the Benefits? appeared first on Relay.

In this buying guide, we’ll answer the common question, ‘how does a panic button work’, explain the key features of a duress alarm, uncover the benefits of duress alarms for workplaces, and share a buying guide of the best duress alarms for businesses.

What is a Duress Alarm?

A duress alarm, also known as a panic button or distress alarm, is a safety device an employee can use to call for assistance in an emergency. It’s primarily used in workplaces, like healthcare or hospitality, and can be combined with a two-way communication device, like a smart radio or walkie-talkie.

How Does a Panic Button Work?

A panic button, usually triggered by pressing a button once or multiple times, works by notifying primary responders that help is needed during an emergency. Once the alarm is triggered by an employee, the responder receives their location.

With two-way communication solutions, the responder can talk to the employee to ensure the right assistance is delivered quickly and (if needed) discreetly.

Read more about how panic buttons such as Relay’s work below.

Triggering a panic alert

To trigger the duress alarm on a Relay, press the push-to-talk button (located in the center of the device) quickly and at least five times. This is discreet, quick to perform, and an easy emergency procedure for staff to remember. Even better, it’s built into a device staff already use and carry around daily. Other panic buttons’ triggers may be set up differently.

Responders are notified

A duress alarm is preconfigured to notify certain people during an emergency. This is customizable. When an employee presses a panic button, responders should receive an instant notification with the employee’s name and exact location.

Push to talk

Relay’s duress alarms are built into our smart two-way communication devices, enabling responders to talk to the employee to better understand the problem. This way they can know what supplies may be needed and acknowledge when help is on the way. With cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, communication between devices is clear, crisp, and reliable – no matter where you are.

Benefits of Duress Alarms For Businesses

An employee panic button can benefit businesses and staff by making the workplace safer and more efficient for customers and employees. The top benefits of an employee panic button include:

Improved safety

Duress alarms can make a workplace safer by enabling quick assistance to employees in an emergency and de-escalating potentially dangerous situations. It’s particularly beneficial for improving the safety of lone workers such as housekeepers.

Panic buttons are frequently built into two-way communication devices carried by employees, making it easy for staff to activate the alarms and receive help.

For example, staff working in a warehouse, hotel, or healthcare facility already using a radio device to communicate daily may benefit from having a panic button built in. Especially when it comes to feeling safe, confident, and protected while at work.

Rapid emergency response

Panic buttons can significantly improve a workplace’s response time to emergencies. Solutions should send instant alerts in less than one second to designated responders, so employees can access the help they need without delay.

Read how Fairfield and TownePlace Suites of Norfolk relies on Relay’s panic solution to handle staff and guest emergencies with intention and speed.

Better customer service

In client-facing environments (like healthcare or hospitality) duress alarms can also improve customer services by enabling quick support to reach a customer.

For example, if a guest is unwell or requires fast support from another professional, a panic button can ensure they get the help they need quickly.

Discreet activation

When an employee faces a situation where they need help, such as when alone in a room with a patient or guest, they can activate a duress alarm discreetly to receive assistance.

This prevents the need for staff to call for help or sound an alarm, which can cause a disturbance or distress among guests and other employees.

When to Use a Duress Alarm

Duress alarms can be used in a workplace any time an employee needs to report an emergency or receive fast assistance. This can include alerting staff to fires, falls, or any situation where an employee feels unsafe and needs assistance.

Common situations that can cause an employee to use a duress alarm include:

• Medical emergencies – If a customer or member of staff falls ill
• Feeling unsafe – If an employee feels unsafe due to a workplace problem
• Immediate assistance – If an employee needs instant assistance, such as during a machine malfunction or accident
• Workplace accidents – If an accident occurs in a workplace, such as an employee falling over or injuring themselves
• Reporting emergencies – In the event of a fire, flood, or other emergency to enable fast action and evacuation
• De-escalation of threatening situations – If a customer displays threatening behavior, an employee can discreetly notify responders to help de-escalate a situation
• Robbery or break-in – During a robbery or break-in, staff can use the panic button to notify management or the authorities discreetly

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Panic Button For Businesses

When choosing a duress alarm for your business, it’s important to consider the practicality of the device and how it can best benefit your employees.

With Relay, a duress alarm is built into our two-way radios, allowing employers to enjoy the full benefits of a smart radio along with improved workplace safety.

This type of duress alarm is particularly beneficial for staff working in large businesses where effective communication technology is key to operations, including:

• Casinos
• Hotels
• Golf courses
• Entertainment venues
• Food services
• Education
• Warehouses
• Healthcare

With Relay’s duress alarm, employers receive:

• Instant alerts – Panic alerts are sent to responders in less than one second, minimizing delays and offering improved safety
• Accurate location – Relay provides responders with an accurate location indoors and outdoors, with the ability to pinpoint the exact room
• Reliable connectivity – Triple redundancy and long-lasting Bluetooth beacons ensure continuous connectivity with minimal maintenance
• Real-time communication – With push-to-talk built in, responders can quickly talk to the employee to ensure the right help reaches them
• Live language translation – In a critical situation, our live language translation removes language barriers and ensures clear communication between parties

Other key features of Relay’s smart radios include:

• Nationwide range – Teams can communicate from other buildings and locations nationwide
• Better connectivity – Relay offers redundant connectivity with Wi-Fi and multiple 4G service providers
• Location tracking – Managers can track employee locations with GPS and Bluetooth to improve safety and workplace productivity

FAQs

Are Duress Alarms Silent?

Generally, duress alarms are silent for the person pressing the alarm, but sounded for the responder receiving the alert. This is intentional as duress alarms are designed to be discreet and not cause unnecessary panic in a workplace.

For example, in a hospitality venue, an employee can discreetly activate the panic button to notify the responder that they need assistance, without causing concern among guests or other staff.

What are the Types of Duress Alarm Buttons?

There are three main types of duress alarms, including wearable radio devices, pendants, and fixed buttons. Here’s a quick explanation of each type of employee panic button for the workplace:

• Wearable radio devices – A wearable radio device (like Relay) is a modern solution for warehouse, hospitality, casino, or healthcare employees. It works as a two-way radio and a panic button for emergencies.
• Emergency pendants – These pendants are typically worn around an employee’s neck and are specifically designed to send a distress signal. They are ideal for lone workers, like social workers.
• Wall-mounted buttons – These are fixed buttons mostly used to activate a discreet alarm during a dangerous situation. They are ideal for under the desks of banks or beneath supermarket registers.

What is an Example of a Duress Alarm?

An example of a duress alarm is Relay’s smart radio – a two-in-one device that enables employees to communicate effectively with team members and send a distress signal in an emergency.

How Relay Can Improve Your Workplace Safety

Relay can improve productivity and enhance worker safety, particularly for lone workers or staff working in customer-facing environments.

Clear communication is a necessary part of every workplace, especially when you’re using radios to send vital messages to your team.

Replacing your walkie talkies with Relay can help you maximize efficiency and improve the safety of your staff and customers. With nationwide range, Relay operates effectively in large premises and even different buildings.Ready to uncover if Relay is right for your business? Book a one-on-one demo today – or check out our customer stories to see how Relay has helped deliver over 2.5 billion messages across the world.

The post Choosing the Best Duress Alarm For Your Team: A Buyer’s Guide appeared first on Relay.

During our recent panel discussion with two Marriott general managers, they discussed not only meeting Marriott’s associate alert device mandate by implementing Relay, but also how they leverage the cloud-based tool for it’s comprehensive communication platform. Tune in to our 5-minute recap of the discussion to learn how Fausto Coello, General Manager of Chicago Marriott Suites O’Hare and Migidi Tembo, General Manager of Bloomington Normal Marriott Hotel and Conference Center utilize Relay to enhance staff safety, streamline operations, and improve overall efficiency far beyond basic compliance.

You’ll discover how other GM’s are using Relay to:

• Optimize communication across various departments
• Streamline employee and guest safety protocols
• Improve response times and efficiency in housekeeping, maintenance, and guest services
• Mitigate language barriers between both guests and employees

Exploring options for a Panic Solution at your property? Download our guide.

The post Beyond Associate Alert Device Compliance appeared first on Relay.

At first glance, investing in two-way radios might seem like a cost-effective, one-time solution for your team’s communication needs. You buy the radios, hand them out, and you’re good to go—right? Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Traditional radios come with several hidden costs that can quickly escalate, turning what seems like a smart investment into a long-term financial drain.

Let’s break down the hidden costs of two-way radios, how they affect your budget, and why Relay offers a modern, cost-effective alternative for your business.

Frequent Device Replacements

Even the most durable traditional radios can’t escape the wear and tear of everyday use, especially in high-impact industries like construction, hospitality, and healthcare. Exposure to drops, rough handling, and weather conditions leads to frequent device failures and the need for replacements.

Standard handheld radio can cost hundreds of dollars per unit, and the expenses don’t end there. Replacing just a few units per year can add up to thousands of dollars. Additionally, the costs associated with replacing batteries can also contribute to ongoing expenses. The administrative burden of sourcing and distributing new devices only compounds these costs.

Moreover, downtime from malfunctioning radios can disrupt communication, delay tasks, and decrease productivity. Employees may have to share devices while waiting for replacements, straining communication efficiency.

Costly Infrastructure: Repeaters and Towers

If your team needs to communicate over long distances or across large, multi-level buildings, basic two-way radios alone won’t suffice. Businesses often need to invest in repeaters, towers, or additional infrastructure to boost signal strength.

A single repeater can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, with setup fees depending on the scale of the project. Ongoing maintenance costs can add up quickly, with malfunctioning repeaters causing communication outages that require urgent and costly repairs. Repeaters and towers require regular maintenance to function properly, leading to significant long-term expenses.

Training and Maintenance

Although radios are designed for simplicity, training is necessary—especially for onboarding new employees or rolling out advanced models. Teaching team members how to properly use the devices and troubleshoot common issues takes time and resources.

Beyond training, radios often require periodic updates, programming, and configuration to ensure optimal functionality. When issues arise, diagnosing and fixing problems may require technical expertise that your team may lack, resulting in additional service calls and tech support fees.

Higher Costs from Multiple Devices

In modern workplaces, relying solely on traditional radios can lead to increased expenses due to the necessity of multiple devices. For instance, businesses often need to invest in additional equipment for specific operational needs, such as panic buttons for emergencies or translation devices for multilingual communication. This fragmented approach complicates workflows and significantly drives up costs.

Instead of consolidating budgets into a single, integrated solution, teams may find themselves managing separate systems for different functions, leading to inefficiencies and higher overall expenses. The need for panic and translation features underscores the importance of investing in comprehensive communication solutions that enhance safety and streamline operations. By adopting a unified system, businesses can maximize their investment while providing a more effective environment for their teams.

How Relay Helps You Cut Communication Costs

While the hidden costs of traditional radio systems can be overwhelming, Relay offers a smarter, more affordable alternative:

• Durable Devices That Last: Relay devices are rugged and designed to withstand tough work environments, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Regular software updates ensure your devices stay current without requiring new hardware.
• No Expensive Infrastructure: Relay operates on reliable 4G LTE and WiFi networks, providing nationwide coverage without the need for repeaters, towers, or other costly infrastructure.
• Easy to Use: Relay’s intuitive design minimizes the need for extensive training. Employees can easily get started without complicated instructions, and the plug-and-play setup ensures no complex configuration is required.
• All-in-One Device: Relay offers an all-in-one communication platform that combines essential features—like panic buttons and multilingual capabilities—into a single device. This integration reduces the need for multiple devices, streamlining workflows and minimizing costs.

Ready to Make the Switch?

When you factor in all the hidden costs of traditional radios—frequent replacements, infrastructure, licensing, and maintenance—it becomes clear that the true cost of radios is much higher than anticipated. Relay offers a modern, cost-effective solution that not only reduces these expenses but also provides advanced features to enhance your team’s communication.

Relay can help you cut costs and streamline your business operations. Get custom pricing today.

The post How Much Are Your Radios Really Costing You? appeared first on Relay.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how Relay operates in a union environment, how it enhances worker safety, and what considerations need to be discussed for a successful implementation in a union environment. 

Relay is unique in that it effectively combines communication and safety in one compact, discreet, and user-friendly device. This innovation empowers workers to feel secure and connected, enhancing their overall safety on the job. Click here to learn more about Relay. 

Brief History of Union Panic Button Mandates

Frontline workers, particularly in housekeeping and room service, face significant risks due to isolated work environments, making them vulnerable to harassment and assault. Recognizing this dangerous reality, the Hotel Trades Council (HTC) spearheaded an initiative in 2012 to implement panic button systems in unionized hotels across New York City after a horrifying incident involving a member. 

This move aimed to enhance worker safety by allowing employees immediate access to security assistance. HTC members enabled the successful negotiation of this contract provision. 

Today, panic buttons not only protect workers in New York but have been adopted by hotels nationwide, marking a significant step towards safer working conditions in the hospitality industry. Panic buttons for hotel workers have not only been driven by other unions, but there are more and more city and state wide laws requiring them.

How Relay Empowers Union Workers

Some Relay customers have chosen our service based on union recommendations or to comply with union mandates. However, Relay is often introduced through other business necessities that may prompt an organization to purchase it. We want to highlight the specific attributes of Relay that can make it an attractive solution for union environments.

Helps Comply with Union Safety Mandates

Being a robust and customizable platform has enabled Relay to meet the requirements in most union safety mandates as well as city and state laws. If you have a specific question about compliance, please reach out to our team. If you are an existing customer, please reach out to customersuccess@relaypro.com.

Less Physically Taxing

Union workers often face physically demanding tasks. Relay’s communication system is less physically taxing because it’s smaller and lighter than traditional radios. The compact design makes it easier for workers to carry. The device is durable, enabling workers to focus more on their job and worry less about damaging it. 

Additionally, improved communication reduces the time spent tracking down the right person, allowing workers to send someone closer to the task at hand, further minimizing physical exertion. This is particularly beneficial in large properties where workers might otherwise have to cover long distances.

Speed to implement

In many scenarios, there is an urgent need to secure safety solutions, whether in response to a recent incident or as part of ongoing contract negotiations. Relay is a fast and cost-effective option for implementing safety measures within union environments. The installation of Relay systems can often be seamlessly integrated with existing infrastructure, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. 

Relay also offers a quick and easy installation method that many customers can perform themselves, reducing reliance on external contractors. This flexibility allows unions to swiftly enhance worker safety without incurring significant expenses.

Relay also provides robust digital training and support from an account manager and US-based customer service all focused on helping you get up to speed as quickly as possible and supporting any issues along the way. 

Customizable to your unique needs 

Relay is a highly configurable software-based solution, allowing features to be tailored specifically to requirements that unions may request. Whether it’s permission settings or specific communication protocols, the platform can be adjusted to suit many unique needs of unions using our web-based dashboard.

Next level communication capabilities

More than just a panic button; Relay is a comprehensive communication platform with real-time automated translation for 30+ languages. With nationwide coverage and reliable connectivity over cellular and Wi-Fi networks, you can stay connected even in hard-to-reach areas like stairwells and basements. The platform offers 1,000 channels, allowing you to organize your communications in a way that suits you best. You can even connect via a handheld Relay device, mobile app, or web-based dashboard.

Best tools = happy workers

Relay is a best-in-class communication device that doubles as an effective panic button, standing out from traditional solutions like noise makers and basic panic buttons. While noise makers simply produce loud sounds and rely on someone nearby to hear them, and panic buttons alert responders without facilitating real-time communication, Relay offers a comprehensive solution. It not only sends alerts but also enables seamless communication with designated responders, ensuring that you can convey critical information when it matters most. 

This combination of capabilities makes Relay an essential tool for safety and peace of mind. When you provide your workers with a modern tool like Relay, you’re sending a clear message that you value their safety and well-being. This leads to happier workers who are more productive and less likely to leave. 

Recommended Areas for Discussion

As with any technology that is going to impact union employees we recommend open and clear communication. Relay is highly configurable, so here are some areas where we recommend establishing clear understanding and alignment.

Indoor Location Tracking

Indoor location tracking is essential for a quick response to a safety incident. A lot of time can be wasted looking for an employee, especially if they are incapacitated for some reason. Knowing precisely where someone is when they trigger a panic alert drastically increases the speed in which help can arrive. There is also safety value in knowing the location of employees that have not triggered a panic. 

Several of our customers have faced a situation where a manager has been able to identify in the dashboard that an employee had not moved locations in an unusual amount of time, to find out that person had passed out or become incapacitated before they were able to trigger a panic alert. Emergency medical services on average take 7 minutes to respond in an urban setting and 14 minutes on average in a rural setting in the US. The FCC “estimated that as many as 10,000 lives could be saved each year, if the 911 emergency dispatching system were able to reach callers just one minute faster”. In all emergency scenarios, speed matters. 

Many organizations also use our indoor location capabilities to optimize operational effectiveness by sending the closest person to a guest request or to locate equipment. Additionally, knowing employee locations allows organizations to provide better employee support, not just in emergencies but also in day-to-day tasks. For instance, it becomes easier to identify if a specific area is understaffed during busy times, ensuring that team members receive the assistance they need, ultimately making their jobs easier. 

As you consider Relay, be sure to discuss exactly what is tracked and when. Clear communication about how and why location data would be used is essential for a successful implementation. It is possible to configure Relay to only track location for emergency situations. 

Message Recording and Transcription

Since Relay is a software-based platform it is possible to enable the automatic recording and transcription of all communication happening across devices. This is a powerful safety capability as there will be a record of locations and all communication happening, including during safety incidents.  

There are also benefits beyond safety incidents. Operationally, reviewing the recordings and analyzing them can help teams spot frequent challenges, inefficiencies or bring clarity to employee disputes. While transcription is a powerful tool for safety and operational efficiency, it’s important to clarify its use and that anyone using Relay understands what is being recorded. 

Recording and transcription is a capability that can be enabled or disabled depending on the needs and priorities.

Clarity on Punitive Measures

While Relay is a platform for improving safety and efficiency, it also has the potential to provide crucial insights during conflicts. Many of our customers find it helpful to discuss before implementation how the information gathered through Relay can be utilized regarding punitive measures. 

Timing

Increased safety and better operational efficiency is good for everyone. Starting discussions early and keeping open lines of communication can expedite this process and help make sure workers have the best tools for them to do their jobs safely as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Relay is a powerful platform that can significantly enhance safety and efficiency in union environments. Its robust and customizable capabilities make it an appealing option to comply with union safety mandates or to improve communication and safety across your facility. Thoughtful implementation and clear communication are key to addressing concerns and ensuring that any organization and its workers reap the full benefits of this advanced communication platform.

Ready to see how Relay can you transform safety and communication? Contact us today to learn more and get started.

The post Relay in Union Environments appeared first on Relay.

However, as the hospitality industry shifts towards an upward trajectory, plenty of statistics demonstrate how shifting consumer needs are changing expectations. For hospitality leaders, staying ahead of evolutions and adapting to consumer needs will be instrumental for growth moving forward. Here are 8 hospitality trends that prove the industry is changing.

1. Staff retention is a priority area.

While guests may be returning in droves, finding and retaining staff has become increasingly challenging for many brands. There is now a significant push to improve and evolve working standards for hospitality employees to prevent high turnover rates. With hospitality staff becoming harder to recruit and retain, the focus for brands is to keep employees engaged. 

Brands are now implementing new solutions and processes to help staff feel empowered, happy, and confident working with them. Staff retention strategies brands have adopted include measures such as low-cost or free accommodation options, higher wages, and other innovative measures to take care of staff.

2. Keep in touch – but don’t make contact.

Another emerging trend that proves how much the industry has changed over the years is the expectations around communication. With more tech and innovation available to keep in touch with guests, it seems like all guests want to do is keep in contact without actually having to interact with anyone.  Keeping in touch can include automated solutions like chatbots, text and social media messaging  to send comms around common touch points such as wait times, check-in, security information, and other messages to keep guests informed without making frequent contact.  

3. Employee safety and communication need to be seamless. 

A seamless communication experience isn’t just for guests but also for employees. As the hospitality industry changes, it’s more important than ever for employees to feel safe, heard, and seen at all times. Employee safety in the face of unpredictable guests and aggressive situations has become an important topic as they navigate these high-pressure situations. Many brands have already instituted emergency alert measures, including tech solutions for rapid employee communication and panic button mandates to ensure employee safety. 

4. Sustainability is changing perceptions of hospitality and what customers expect from hospitality venues.

As concerns about the environmental impact of tourism and travel grow, many hotels are looking inward at their operations to mitigate their carbon footprint. There is a growing need for hotels to reduce waste, reduce the usage of resources such as water and energy, and find new eco-friendly ways of construction. 

In 2021, 83% of global travelers think sustainability is essential, and 61% state that, post-pandemic, they would like to travel more sustainably. Many brands have already started undertaking measures (e.g., new measures for waste management and managing laundry processes), but consumers will likely expect more as their awareness of environmental issues continues to increase. 

5. Generative AI will start to play a more prominent role in marketing, strategy, and operations.

There is a growing trend towards adopting generative AI in hospitality, and this is likely to increase as more brands begin to experiment with the technology. Generative AI has been one of the single largest technological advancements over the years, and its possibilities are endless. 

As hospitality brands look for rapid growth opportunities, leveraging generative AI for travel advice, communication, analytics, and more will become a larger trend. Those who can quickly adapt generative AI to core functions like marketing, operations, and communications will be significantly ahead of the curve. 

6. Focus on the right tech, not the Metaverse 

While generative AI is seeing massive demand, not all tech is equal. While it might be tempting to look at experiential tech like the Metaverse or augmented reality (AR) as new ways to drive interest, the novelty may soon wear off. While focusing on the overall customer experience is important, think about what value tech adds for staff and guests before investing in it. 

While 34% of customers expressed interest in features like virtual reality hotel tours, most hotel brands see it as a complex, impractical solution that’s difficult to implement. However, other tech solutions such as automated marketing messages, employee safety devices, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are becoming a major investment area for hospitality brands moving forward. 

7. Look at what retail is doing.

As hospitality brands compete for footfall, looking outside the category may help. Many hospitality brands are now taking inspiration from retail, including more substantial health and safety measures, experiential design, curated collections, and unique amenities to differentiate themselves from the rest. 

For hospitality brands looking towards future investments, understanding adjacent categories such as brick-and-mortar retail may inspire how to bring more guests in. Many retail brands have now paired with social media influencers to increase brand awareness, created experiential shopping spaces, and introduced more creative design into interiors. For hospitality brands looking to stand out from the rest, retail can provide a lot of inspiration on moving forward.

8. New types of travel are on the rise 

As more consumers balance work with pleasure, there is more of a shift to maximize time while traveling. Alternative travel styles such as bleisure and digital nomadism are on the rise. More and more travelers are expecting hospitality brands to accommodate work needs (e.g., fast internet for Zoom calls and easy telecommunication solutions for calls) as well as leisure needs. Hotel brands need to be able to flex and adapt to shifting needs as people go from working during the day to exploring their surroundings in the evenings and weekends. Rapid communication between employees to offer different solutions based on comfort and convenience will be key as it may become more challenging to immediately anticipate work and non-work related needs.

Conclusion: Invest Where it Makes Sense For You

With the hospitality industry slated for growth, it’s essential not to fall behind. Investing in the right tech to facilitate communication ensures that both staff and guests feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. With staff safety and retention being vital focus areas for hospitality brands, solutions like Relay offer innovative solutions for staff safety.

The post The Industry is Changing: 8 Hospitality Trends appeared first on Relay.

According to a report by Reveal, hotel industry workers reported 818 incidents of sexual harassment to the federal government between 2006-2016. And an article by the Center for American Progress states that the accommodation and food service industry accounted for 14.2 percent of the sexual harassment claims filed with the EEOC between 2005-2015.

And, with the #MeToo movement accelerating in recent years, it has become abundantly clear that accommodations need to be made to keep employees safe.

But what is a panic solution?

Panic solutions, also known as panic alarms, emergency alert systems, or duress systems, are a simple yet powerful concept: electronic devices that can be activated in case of an emergency. It is the “help” button that transforms a potential disaster into a manageable situation. They are designed to help provide immediate assistance and aid in the protection of individuals and property.

Compliance and legal considerations 

The American Hospitality & Lodging Association (AHLA) clearly outlines its commitment to employee safety devices in its 5-Star Promise. While it’s not a requirement everywhere, instituting a panic button at your hotel can aid in employee retention and show staff you’re committed to helping them feel safe on the job. In fact, 97% of those surveyed in AlertMedia’s State of Employee Safety Report stated feeling safe at work is an important factor in determining where they would want to continue their career.

Hospitality businesses are subject to various regulations and legal requirements. It is essential to research and understand the relevant laws and regulations that pertain to panic solutions in your area. Compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines is crucial to avoid potential legal issues and ensure that your panic solution is effective and in line with the law. 

In addition to local and state mandates, some hotel brands and unions also pass mandates, so be sure to stay up to date with internal guidelines and find the solution that makes the most sense for your environment.

Here you’ll find a complete list of states and cities including their current mandate status as of February 2025 and links to the articles or ordinances around each mandate:

Passed

California – NOT Statewide
All of the following cities currently have a mandate in effect:

• West Hollywood – Ordinance No. 21-1159 
• Glendale –  Hotel Workers Protection Ordinance 
• Anaheim – Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance 
• Irvine – Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance 
• Long Beach – Hotel Working Conditions 
• Los Angeles – Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance 
• Oakland – Hotel Minimum Wage and Working Conditions 
• Sacramento – Sacramento County Hotel Worker Protection Act of 2018 
• Santa Monica – Hotel Worker Protection Act 

Florida – NOT Statewide – Currently in Effect

• Miami Beach – Ordinance No. 2018-4207

Illinois – Statewide – Currently in Effect

• Hotel and Casino Employee Safety Act 

New Jersey – Statewide – Currently in Effect

• The Panic Button Law 

New York – NOT Statewide – In Effect May 3, 2025

• New York City’s Safe Hotels Act – Int. No. 0991

Washington – Statewide – In Effect January 1, 2026

• Preventing The Sexual Harassment And Sexual Assault Of Certain Isolated Workers 

Pending Legislation

Massachusetts

• Stalled, No Movement Since 2021- Safer Hotels for Workers Act 

Pennsylvania 

• Protecting The Safety Of Hotel Workers – HB 1944 – Stalled, No Movement Since 2021
• Protecting The Safety Of Hotel Workers – HB967 – Pending, Last Movement July 2023 

Dead

Georgia

• SB 389– Dead, No Movement Since 2022

Relay satisfies panic mandates

Throughout this decision-making process, acknowledge the distinct advantages that Relay brings to the table. With its user-friendly interface, rapid response times, and two-way communication capabilities, Relay stands out as a comprehensive and reliable choice. Learn how Residence Inn enhanced it’s work environment with Relay.

Remember, adopting a panic solution is more than just a security measure– it’s an investment in the safety and well-being of your hotel, your employees, and your guests, creating a secure experience on your property. So why wait? Start exploring panic solutions today! Stay safe, stay protected, and rest assured that your hotel, staff, and guests will thank you.

For comprehensive information around the 5 key elements of a panic solution, we have a resource for you! 

The post Navigate Hospitality Panic Solution Mandates: State by State appeared first on Relay.