The City of Irvine, CA is set to implement a new ordinance that will require Irvine hotels to follow stringent workplace rules for their employees. The ordinance parallels the hotel worker protection ordinances already passed by other cities, such as Los Angeles and West Hollywood.
Among other things, the ordinance requires hotels to provide personal security devices to their workers and adhere to specific workload limitations for room attendants.
Although the ordinance is subject to a second reading before it becomes effective, Irvine hotels should prepare as soon as possible.
How can hotel operators of hotels in Irvine prepare?
Under the ordinance, hotels must provide workers with a personal security device (PSD) to be used if the hotel worker’s safety is at risk. The hotel must also train workers on how to use and maintain the PSD by the later of 30 days after the ordinance’s effective date or within one month of the worker’s date of hire. Importantly, if a hotel has 60 or more guest rooms, then the PSD training must be in English, and in each language the hotel knows to be spoken by 10% or more of its workforce.
Hotels are also required to enlist a designated and assigned security guard who can receive alerts from a worker’s PSD to subsequently provide on-site assistance. But, if a hotel has fewer than 60 guest rooms, the hotel may have a supervisor or manager take on the security guard role so long as they are properly trained.
Importantly, if a hotel worker reports violent or threatening conduct, the ordinance requires hotels to provide reasonable accommodations for the employee. This could include a modified work schedule and paid time off to report incidents to law enforcement or consult with a counselor or advisor.
Signage Requirement
Hotels must also place specific signage on the back of each guest room and restroom entrance door, in no less than 18-point font (1) stating “The Law Protects Hotel Workers From Threatening Behavior,” (2) including the chapter’s Irvine Municipal Code, and (3) indicating to guests that hotel workers carry personal security devices.
How can #NotMe help with compliance, safety, and reporting of safety & security concerns?
#NotMe can help hotel operators comply with the ordinance if the hotel workers have a smartphone which can be, with #NotMe, used as a PSD.
#NotMe is a modern end-to-end Safety, HR, Ethics & Compliance SaaS solution for organizations and their employees. With the #NotMe app, downloaded on their phones, employees can swiftly, safely and easily report issues, including safety concerns to their management.
#NotMe is an employee’s safe zone where they can report issues and be heard.
To find out more about how #NotMe can facilitate your compliance with the Ordinance, or to request a demo, contact us.
