In the hospitality industry, guest safety is paramount. While fire prevention and security measures are often prioritized, emergency communication systems sometimes receive less attention. With recent updates to the International Building Code (IBC) and ASME A17.1/CSA B44 elevator safety codes, it is increasingly important for hotel operators to assess whether their emergency communication systems comply with current standards.
The role of code-compliant emergency communications in hotels
Elevators are integral to hotel operations, serving countless guests daily. Reliable emergency communication within these systems is not only a regulatory requirement but also a critical component of guest safety. Building and elevator codes provide a framework for ensuring that emergency communication systems are functional, accessible and effective.
Recent code updates have introduced important changes that hospitality operators need to be aware of and plan for. Recent revisions to elevator codes introduce several important updates:
- Two-way messaging display: Elevators are now required to provide visual, text-based messaging to assist passengers who are hearing or speech impaired, helping ensure clear communication during emergencies.
- Video monitoring: Authorized personnel must have access to real-time video feeds of the elevator cab, allowing for better assessment and situational response.
- On-site assistance notification: For elevators with a travel distance exceeding 60 feet, there must be a mechanism to notify passengers once emergency personnel have arrived on-site.
These requirements apply when elevators are permitted for construction or modernization. However, many hotel operators choose to go beyond the baseline. Updating older systems across properties—even when not strictly required—can support consistency, enhance guest safety and align with a broader commitment to accessibility.
Understanding compliance timelines
The adoption of the 2018 IBC and 2019 ASME A17.1/CSA B44 codes has already occurred in more than 75% of the U.S., and that number is expected to grow. Compliance requirements vary by jurisdiction, and it is essential for hoteliers to determine which codes are applicable to their specific location.
Evaluating emergency communication systems across your property
In addition to elevators, hoteliers should evaluate other areas of their property where emergency communication systems are necessary, including:
- Pools
- Parking structures
- Common spaces
Systems should be evaluated for:
- Accessibility and inclusivity
- Functional reliability
- Resilience during power outages
Addressing these factors helps ensure that emergency communication supports all guests effectively, especially those with disabilities. To assist in this process, Kings III offers a comprehensive Code Compliance Database, providing an easy way to check your state’s regulations.
The importance of reliable emergency response
While having a functional system is crucial, the quality of the emergency response is equally important. During an incident, the experience and training of the responders on the other end of the call can make a critical difference. It is not enough to ensure that a call connects; it must connect to a knowledgeable and capable team.
Some hotels choose to manage emergency response internally, but the demands of emergency coordination require specialized expertise. Dedicated emergency dispatch centers, staffed with operators trained specifically for emergency communication, offer a crucial advantage.
For example, many hotel operators have found that partnering with Kings III provides a dependable, consistent layer of emergency support, helping them strengthen guest safety protocols, streamline response processes and mitigate risk. Kings III’s Emergency Dispatch Center (EDC) is staffed 24/7/365 by highly trained professionals certified in Advanced Emergency Medical Dispatch (AEMD), ensuring the highest level of pre-arrival care when it matters most.
Emergency communication technology trends
Emerging technologies, such as two-way messaging and video monitoring, enhance not just compliance but also the overall responsiveness of emergency communication systems. These technologies enable better situational awareness and more effective coordination during emergencies.
Systems that incorporate dynamic voice translation and real-time video access are becoming best practices for providing a high standard of guest care.
Prioritizing emergency communication as part of guest safety
Emergency communication systems are a critical, though sometimes overlooked, aspect of a hotel’s safety infrastructure and operational excellence. As codes evolve, hotel operators must ensure that their properties meet the latest requirements while keeping guest accessibility and safety at the forefront.
By staying informed about regulatory changes and thoughtfully evaluating current systems, hotels can maintain operational excellence and deliver an environment where guests feel safe and supported.
If you need assistance evaluating or upgrading your hotel’s emergency communication systems, contact Kings III today. Our team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of code compliance and implement solutions that best fit your property’s needs.
