Marriott International provides alert devices to its housekeeper
As part of its ongoing focus on safety, Marriot International (NASDAQ: MAR) announced it is ramping up the deployment of alert devices for housekeepers and other on-property associates allowing them to discreetly summon help if they feel harassed in any way, need quick support or spot a guest in distress.
Further signaling its ongoing commitment to safety, the company will be making associate alert devices a ne standard across its portfolio of more than 5000 managed and franchised hotels in the United States and Canada and is exploring similar technology solutions to meet the needs of its global portfolio and workforce. The associate alert technology rollout is projected to continue through 2020 as the company and its franchised partners fine - tune and tailor installations at individual sites ranging from high rise city properties to sprawling resorts to suburban hotels.
After more than a year of field testing and modifying solutions based on input from housekeepers and safety and security experts, Marriot International and its franchise partners are expanding and accelerating the rollout of associate alert technology including devices that can pinpoint the location of the alert issuer, which has proven effective in scenarios where rapid response is critical and in hotel settings which can be more than a million square feet in size.
The move sets a high bar within the industry and has been applauded by American Hotel & Lodging association (AHLA), which convened leaders from multiple member hotel companies committed to protecting employees as well as millions of guests who stay in hotels each day.
“No one should ever be earful of doing their job, least of all associates’ on-property who are so vital to the success of our company and our industry,” said Arne Sorenson, President and Chief executive Officer, Marriot International. “The safety of everyone at our properties is always a top priority as to deterring and combating harassment of any kind. I’m deeply proud to say our entire industry is unified around these important goals.”
At testing locations to date, many housekeepers have expressed relief and described heightened peace of mind, not because they’re had to use the device, but because they know they can if trouble arises.
“I’ve spoken with housekeepers who describe the feeling of walking into a guest room and not knowing what’s on the other side of the floor,” said Erika Alexander, Chief Lodging Services Officer, The Americas, for Marriot International and a former Marriot Hotel General Manager. “Realizing they now have a device right at their fingertip is automatically empowering and it reminds them that they’re not alone. I hear the relief and confidence in their voices. I see it in their faces. Not only does it make them feel better, it makes their families feel better about the work environment they’re in. That’s why we are doing this.”
Marriot housekeepers echo this sentiment. “It’s a big relief for the whole family - First of all, for me being on the floor late and for my husband and kids. We don’t have to worry about mommy. She’s never going to be in danger. She’s working in a safe environment,” shared Latifa E, a Marriot housekeeper. “Everybody is happy in the hotel about this change, because everybody feels safer,” said Carlos C, a Marriot housekeeping Aid.
The associate alert device puts another tool in the hands of Marriot’s tens of thousands of associates and complements the company’s regular safety and security training and protocols. Together, these tools collectively foster a safer environment in which associates are better able to care for each other and hotel guests.
The real magic happens when it all comes together, and everybody does their part to create a safer work environment and guest experience,” emphasised Alexander. “Putting people is never going to change as a Marriot core value, but what that looks like and what tools and resources are available to us will evolve over time. In this phase we are dialing up on safety and security.”
Marriot International Press Release |
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