Best Practices for Security in the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry is complex with its array of evolving services, amenities, and security measures that are integral to creating positive, memorable guest experiences. How comfortable and protected guests feel in their accommodations is particularly critical. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize safety without compromising the overall guest experience.

Security in the hospitality space encompasses everything from environmental features and video surveillance to access control technology for hotel rooms, workout facilities, and other guest amenities. While security solutions must be robust, they also should be able to blend in with their welcoming surroundings. An example of this is how electronic door locks can now balance protection and convenience with aesthetic touches to complement the style of a hotel.

Let’s explore best practices for security in this space and how to implement them.

Environmental Features

Security in the hospitality industry starts before guests even enter the front door. Environmental design features should promote security without impacting ambiance and brand aesthetics. 

For example, lighting is a crucial security feature. Heavily trafficked areas like parking garages, staff entrances, lobbies, workspaces and guest hallways should be well-lit for both safety and accessibility. Hospitality businesses can also enhance environmental security by implementing features like perimeter fences, light posts along pedestrian walkways and parking gates that blend in with the overall design of an establishment.

Mobile Solutions

Today’s on-the-go world demands fast-paced solutions that can keep up. That’s why modern hotels and restaurants have gone keyless, opting instead for keycards, RFID-enabled fobs, mobile apps, and even biometric identification for staff and guests alike.

Mobile access solutions are easy to use, but still provide the same high standards of comprehensive security that guests expect. Mobile credentials simplify security and provide hotel personnel with greater flexibility and control. Administrators can update schedules and manage employee access directly through a mobile app or web browser — eliminating the need for in-person key handoffs. Some apps also allow business owners to view access histories, which allows for a detailed log of employee comings and goings within the establishment. The advantages of mobile-based credentials are only growing with the technology continuing to evolve, as pointed out by Vingcard’s Vice President of Sales, George Winker:

“Whether at home or traveling, modern consumers overwhelmingly prefer to interact with mobile-driven services that are more seamless and that bypass any unnecessary steps. For mobile-based keys, this expectation is behind the rising adoption rates of newer digital wallet-compatible platforms where users can easily store and use their room key without first having to download a separate mobile app. This translates into a more intuitive and user-friendly experience and also symbolizes a growing desire for enhanced control and personalization during the hotel stay journey.”

Biometrics, such as facial identification technology, offer another opportunity to make access control more seamless by providing a hands-free solution instead of physical credentials — a big plus, especially for housekeeping and repair personnel who already have their hands full moving carts and other equipment. Facial identification can also serve as part of a multi-level authentication solution.

Cybersecurity Measures

Trust is the currency of the hospitality industry. Every guest who visits an establishment trusts that they will receive excellent service and remain safe for their entire stay, whether for a meal with friends or a week-long vacation.

Trust is even more relevant as the industry continues to move into the digital space. All online, customer-facing actions like add-on purchases, bookings, and other transactions should be insulated from cybersecurity risks. To help prevent scams or customer data breaches, hospitality businesses should implement digital security safeguards like two-factor authentication, data encryption, and password management for all employees. 

Still, simply installing digital technologies isn’t enough. Staff should be regularly and thoroughly trained on both cybersecurity risks and how to mitigate them. This will not only help keep guests’ data safe but also proprietary company or transactional information that might be stored online. 

Integrating Design

Security and safety should always be the priority regarding access controls in hospitality. That said, some high-tech hardware can be visually intimidating for guests.

In the hospitality space, access controls should be aesthetically pleasing without compromising on efficacy. Incorporating decorative features like levers, card readers, peepholes, and hinges can maintain security without disrupting the overall guest experience. It’s all in the details — eye-catching colors, unique shapes, and other branded hardware are examples of custom finishes that assist in the marriage of form and function in access control with desired aesthetics for a great customer experience.

Emergency Planning

No one wants to plan for the worst, but it’s essential to have systems that enable effective emergency management. Opt for security solutions that integrate with alarm systems, access control and guest messaging services in an emergency or lockdown situation.

Comprehensive emergency management may also include the use of AI-enabled cameras. Video Management Systems (VMS) can be used to analyze footage and recognize patterns and faces. Security cameras should monitor entrances, exits, and other heavily trafficked areas, but discretion is also relevant — guests should feel secure, not surveilled.

Getting the Team on Board

Even state-of-the-art security tools are only as effective as the staff administering them. Best practices start at the top. Management should conduct regular security audits and risk management assessments to identify any weak links in the chain of security. 

The best way to ensure security and guest safety within the hospitality industry is to regularly and thoroughly train staff on general security best practices and how to use the technology you’re investing in most effectively. 

Securing Experiences and Building Trust

Robust security is not just a protective measure — it’s a vital part of delivering exceptional experiences that earn lasting trust. Hospitality venues benefit from blending smart technology, thoughtful design, and well-trained staff to keep people safe without compromising comfort or convenience. By investing in integrated security solutions and fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, hospitality businesses can protect what matters most: their people, their reputation, and the memorable experiences that keep guests coming back.