Every guest matters—but what if one of them is in danger?
Hotels in California are on the front lines in the fight against human trafficking. Under Senate Bill (SB) 970, all hotels are legally required to provide Human Trafficking Awareness Training. Whether you’re a hotel owner, HR professional, or compliance manager, this law applies directly.
At Calibr, we offer a comprehensive compliance training platform, with a key module on anti-trafficking awareness. Integrating this training ensures your staff can spot red flags, respond safely, and protect guests while staying compliant with California regulations. Visit our website to learn more, contact us for personalized guidance, or request a demo to see the platform in action.
Why SB 970 Matters for Hotels
Human trafficking is often called a “hidden crime” because it frequently occurs in plain sight. Hotels and motels, with their constant flow of guests, are unfortunately one of the industries traffickers exploit. Staff should understand what are examples of suspicious behavior in hotels to spot potential trafficking early.
1. High Guest Turnover
Hotels naturally have a high volume of guests checking in and out daily. This constant movement makes it easier for traffickers to blend in and go unnoticed. Staff may not recognize patterns of abuse, and victims can remain hidden in plain sight. A single employee noticing unusual behavior could be the difference between intervention and tragedy.
2. Anonymous Check-Ins
Many hotels allow guests to book under fake names or use online booking platforms that don’t verify identities. Traffickers exploit this anonymity to transport victims, hide their activities, and avoid detection. Even seasoned hotel staff may find it challenging to identify suspicious behavior without proper training.
3. Cash Payments
Cash-based transactions leave little trace of guest activity, making it easier for traffickers to operate under the radar. Without proper monitoring and reporting procedures, hotels may unknowingly provide the environment traffickers rely on to exploit victims.
4. Limited Staff Awareness
Many employees are unaware of the signs of human trafficking or how traffickers manipulate victims. Victims may appear compliant, silent, or fearful, making it difficult for untrained staff to recognize danger. This lack of awareness can prevent early intervention.
Important Facts:
According to the Polaris Project, traffickers often target hotels near highways, airports, or entertainment districts because these locations provide easy access and anonymity.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline reports thousands of cases annually that involve the hospitality industry.
By addressing these vulnerabilities through Human Trafficking Awareness Training, hotels not only comply with SB 970 but also actively protect victims, staff, and their business reputation.
Example: A front desk employee at a Los Angeles hotel noticed a young guest appearing unusually frightened, accompanied by someone who seemed controlling. Thanks to proper training, the employee reported the situation, leading to law enforcement intervention and rescue.
SB 970 ensures that all employees who interact with guests are equipped with the knowledge and tools to identify and respond to such situations, making compliance a critical component of hotel safety programs.
What Are Examples of Suspicious Behavior in Hotels?
Hotel staff play a critical role in spotting potential human trafficking. Some examples of suspicious behavior include:
Guests appearing unusually fearful or withdrawn.
Individuals controlling or speaking for another guest.
Frequent short-term stays or repeated visits by unknown companions.
Cash payments or use of fake identification.
Guests avoiding eye contact or refusing housekeeping/services.
Recognizing these signs early allows staff to respond safely and report incidents promptly, protecting both guests and the hotel.
SB 970 Compliance Checklist for Hotels
Here’s a step-by-step guide for compliance:
1. Understand the Law
Employees who interact with guests must complete at least 20 minutes of training covering recognition, response, and reporting procedures.
Why it matters: Knowing the law ensures staff understand the seriousness of human trafficking and their legal obligations. Training helps staff distinguish between normal guest behavior and red flags, such as someone being controlled, isolated, or fearful.
For full details, see the California DOJ – Human Trafficking guidelines.
2. Identify Covered Employees
Assign hotel compliance training to all employees who interact with guests to ensure SB 970 compliance including:
Front Desk Staff: They are the first point of contact and often see guest behavior up close.
Housekeeping: Staff frequently enter rooms and notice signs that may indicate trafficking.
Security Personnel: Responsible for monitoring hotel premises and responding to suspicious activity.
Valets and Bellhops: Often assist guests with luggage and observe unusual interactions.
Guest-Facing Food & Beverage Staff: Servers or concierge employees may notice red flags during interactions.
Tip: Map out staff roles and schedules to ensure everyone who interacts with guests receives training.
At Calibr, we provide comprehensive employee training for all these roles. Our modules are role-specific, interactive, and designed to equip every team member—from front desk to housekeeping—with the knowledge and confidence to identify and respond to human trafficking situations. This ensures full SB 970 compliance while building a vigilant and empowered workforce.
3. Deliver Training via Compliance Platform
With Calibr’s compliance training, hotels can assign multiple modules, including:
Human Trafficking Awareness Training
Workplace Harassment Training
Hazard Communication (GHS) Training
Why interactive elements matter: Using tools like human trafficking awareness quizlet exercises engages staff, reinforces key concepts, and ensures knowledge retention. Scenario-based questions help employees practice real-life responses.
Example: A front desk employee might be presented with a scenario involving a guest exhibiting controlling behavior toward a minor. The quizlet exercise guides the employee through safe response options and reporting steps.
4. Track Completion
Calibr automatically logs who has completed training, the date, and module details.
Why this matters:
Hotels can produce compliance records during inspections.
Management can monitor which departments may need retraining
Tracking ensures accountability and keeps staff motivated to complete modules.
5. Refresh Training
Staff must retrain every two years to stay updated on laws, techniques, and new red-flag indicators.
Additional insight: Traffickers evolve their tactics over time. Regular refreshers ensure staff are aware of the latest trends, such as new ways traffickers manipulate identification, control victims, or exploit technology.
Tip: Include short refresher sessions or quizzes during team meetings to maintain awareness between formal training cycles.
6. Post Awareness Resources
Displaying posters, hotline numbers, and safety reminders in staff areas reinforces training.
Why it helps:
Continuous visibility keeps human trafficking awareness top-of-mind.
Provides a quick reference for employees unsure how to act.
Posters and visual cues create a culture of vigilance across the hotel.
Example: A visual checklist at the housekeeping office reminding staff of red flags and reporting steps can prompt immediate action if suspicious behavior is observed.
By expanding these sections, hotels not only comply with SB 970 but also create a safer environment for guests and staff, empower employees to act confidently, and enhance their reputation as responsible, socially aware establishments.
10 Ways of Preventing Human Trafficking in Hotels
Including Human Trafficking Awareness Training in your hotel’s compliance program helps prevent incidents. Here’s a slightly expanded look at each measure:
Assign Training Modules to All Staff
Ensure every employee, from front desk to housekeeping, completes free Human Trafficking Awareness Training. Coverage across all roles creates a vigilant team.Educate Employees on Traffickers’ Tactics
Teach staff to spot subtle warning signs, like restricted movement, inconsistent stories, or controlling companions. Awareness reduces the risk of missing critical indicatorsDisplay Posters and Hotline Information
Posting report human trafficking information in staff areas and back offices ensures employees have quick access to guidance and resources.Conduct Background Checks
Regular screening of employees reduces the risk of internal involvement or negligence. Knowing your staff is a key preventive step.Monitor Unusual Guest Behavior
Encourage staff to observe irregular patterns and learn what are examples of suspicious behavior in hotels. Even small observations can prevent incidents.Encourage Confidential Reporting
Provide safe, anonymous channels for staff to report suspicious activity. Confidence in reporting systems increases likelihood of intervention.Implement Quick Response Procedures
Have a clear step-by-step plan for staff to follow when spotting suspicious behavior. Knowing exactly what to do reduces hesitation and improves safety.Promote Awareness Through Meetings
Regularly discuss prevention strategies during team huddles or briefings. Reinforcement keeps staff attentive and proactive.Partner With Law Enforcement and NGOs
Building relationships with local authorities and organizations like Polaris Project ensures expert guidance and quick action when needed.Participate in Awareness Campaigns
Engage in initiatives such as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2025 to increase staff and community awareness and demonstrate your hotel’s commitment to safety.
What Employees Should Learn
Effective anti-trafficking training helps employees::
Recognize red flags, such as guests avoiding eye contact or showing signs of control.
Respond safely without confronting suspected traffickers.
Report human trafficking internally and externally.
Understand victim behavior, as many victims are too scared to ask for help.
For additional resources, check the DHS Blue Campaign.
Real-Life Scenarios from Hotels
Sacramento County Operation
A human trafficking sting led to the rescue of two minors and the arrest of more than 100 individuals involved in sex trafficking. This multi-agency effort highlights the importance of vigilance in hotels and public spaces. Read more about the operation
Nebraska Motel Rescue Operation
A coordinated federal and local law enforcement effort dismantled a trafficking ring operating across multiple motels in the Omaha metro area. During the operation, 10 minors and 17 adults were rescued, and five individuals were charged in connection with labor and sex trafficking at these properties. This case underscores the critical role hotels play—and the importance of trained staff vigilance in spotting and reporting abuse.Read more about the operation
These real-life cases highlight the critical role hotels play in spotting suspicious activity. To prepare staff, scenario-based training guides employees on what are examples of suspicious behavior in hotels and how to respond safely, ensuring both guest safety and regulatory compliance.
Human Trafficking Cases and Solutions
Hotels may unknowingly be exposed to trafficking scenarios. Implementing training and preventative measures can reduce risks:
Include training on Human Trafficking Awareness as part of a broader compliance curriculum.
Use interactive tools like human trafficking awareness quizlet exercises.
Educate staff on human traffickers’ tactics and preventative measures.
Encourage staff to report human trafficking immediately through resources such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Collaborate with law enforcement and NGOs to implement best practices.
Advanced Strategies for Prevention
Hotels can further strengthen anti-trafficking efforts:
Monitor guest behavior and visitor patterns.
Conduct scenario-based exercises during team meetings.
Use a centralized compliance platform like Calibr to track training completion across multiple locations.
Partner with local organizations for awareness campaigns.
Reinforce awareness on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2025 through newsletters and internal communications.
Implementing these solutions for human trafficking can reduce risks and strengthen hotel safety.
Benefits Beyond Compliance
Enhanced Reputation:
Hotels that actively train staff and maintain vigilant anti-trafficking measures build trust with guests. A reputation for safety and responsibility attracts more travelers and corporate clients who value ethical practices. For example, guests are more likely to choose a hotel known for staff vigilance and community responsibility over one without clear safety protocols.Employee Confidence:
Trained employees feel empowered to act when they spot suspicious behavior. Confidence comes from knowing exactly what to look for, how to respond, and how to report incidents safely. Staff engagement also increases when employees understand they play a critical role in protecting vulnerable individuals.Legal Protection:
Documented completion of training ensures hotels can demonstrate compliance with SB 970 during audits or legal inquiries. This reduces liability risks if incidents occur, and it protects the hotel’s management and staff from potential lawsuits or penalties.Social Impact:
Hotels aren’t just businesses—they’re part of a community. By implementing awareness programs, hotels actively fight trafficking, protect victims, and contribute to public safety. Each staff member trained becomes part of a broader effort to prevent human trafficking, amplifying the hotel’s positive impact in society.
Hotels that prioritize compliance and safety not only protect guests but also build trust and credibility. Learn more about comprehensive workplace safety compliance in How To Ensure Safety Compliance In The Workplace
How Calibr Helps Hotels Stay Compliant
Calibr offers a comprehensive compliance platform with anti-trafficking modules designed to keep hotels fully SB 970 compliant. With role-specific modules for front desk, housekeeping, security, and other guest-facing staff, Calibr ensures every employee receives the right training. The platform provides trackable completion and certification, easy retraining every two years, and seamless integration with other compliance modules. By centralizing your human trafficking awareness training and other solutions for human trafficking, hotels can save time, protect guests and staff, and build a culture of vigilance. Sign up to start your hotel compliance program with Calibr, contact us to learn how role-specific modules can work for your team, or request a demo to see the platform in action
