Understanding Panic Button Mandates in the Hotel and Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of safeguarding their employees, especially those who work alone or in isolated environments. This has led to the implementation of various “panic button” mandates across different states in an effort to increase workplace safety. These regulations are designed to protect hotel workers, particularly housekeeping staff, from potential threats such as harassment, assault, and other emergencies. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the different state laws regarding panic buttons for hotel workers and how Silent Beacon’s Enterprise Safety Solution can help your hotel business comply with these mandates while ensuring the safety and well-being of your employees.

What is a Panic Button?

A panic button is a portable or installed emergency device, also known as a safety device, that allows employees to quickly summon immediate on-scene assistance from security personnel, managers, or other appropriate staff members. This technology plays a crucial role in providing a safer working environment, particularly for hotel and restaurant workers who often find themselves working alone or in secluded areas. In addition, you might find yourself asking how does a panic button work? Visit our dedicated articles for more in-depth information on panic button functionality.

State-Specific Panic Button Laws

Washington State – Major Expansion Under H.B. 1524 

Washington has significantly expanded its workplace safety protections with House Bill 1524, signed by Governor Bob Ferguson on April 16, 2025, and set to take effect January 1, 2026. This legislation represents a major expansion beyond the state’s existing RCW 49.60.515, extending panic button requirements to a broader category of vulnerable workers. Click here to read the law for yourself.

Who is Covered Under the New Law

H.B. 1524 introduces the legal concept of “isolated employees,” defined as workers who:

• Spend at least 50% of their working hours without a supervisor or coworker present, OR
• Perform work in areas where two or more coworkers or supervisors cannot immediately respond to an emergency without being summoned

This expanded definition now protects workers across multiple industries including:

• Hotels and motels
• Retail establishments
• Security guard entities
• Property services contractors

Key Requirements Under H.B. 1524

The new legislation establishes comprehensive obligations that go well beyond simply providing devices: Panic Button Provisions: Every isolated employee must receive a panic button that meets specific requirements:

• Must be designed to be carried by the employee
• Must be simple to activate without delays from passwords or system startup
• Must provide an effective signal when activated
• Must enable responders to accurately identify the employee’s location

Mandatory Training: Employers must provide training to managers, supervisors, and isolated employees covering:

• Prevention of sexual assault and sexual harassment
• Prevention of sexual discrimination
• Protection for employees reporting violations
• Proper panic button use and response protocols

Documentation and Compliance: Employers must create and maintain comprehensive records to demonstrate compliance:

• Employers must maintain detailed records of training completion
• Must keep records of panic button purchases and utilization
• Property services contractors must submit annual reports to L&I
• All records must be available to the Department of Labor and Industries upon request

Resource Requirements: Isolated employees must receive comprehensive resource lists including contact information for:

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• Washington State Human Rights Commission
• Local advocacy groups focused on preventing sexual harassment and assault

Enforcement With Real Consequences

The law establishes meaningful penalties for violations:

• $1,000 fine for each willful violation
• Repeat willful violators face escalating penalties between $2,000-$10,000
• “Willful” is defined as knowing and intentional actions that are neither accidental nor the result of a bona fide dispute

This comprehensive expansion of Washington’s worker protection laws represents one of the strongest workplace safety measures in the nation. By establishing thorough requirements around training, documentation, and response protocols, H.B. 1524 ensures that panic buttons become part of a genuine safety culture rather than symbolic gestures.