October 16, 2012
Any task undertaken whilst working alone can present particular risks. It’s indisputable that travelling abroad on your own is more risky. Yet it is still your employer’s responsibility that all precautions have been taken to ensure the employee has a safe trip.
So, why are employees more at risk when travelling abroad alone?
Tend to carry more cash and valuables (laptops, passport, etc)
Find themselves in unfamiliar surroundings
A potential language barrier can cause conflict where it could’ve normally been avoided
Not familiar with local customs and etiquette
Criminals target tourists / travellers
Some alarming statistics…
Whilst most visits abroad are trouble free, there are some alarming statistics about travelling abroad.
Over 19,000 reported incidents involving Britons in 2010/11
Year-on-year increase in British deaths abroad – just under 6,000 last year.
Number of those hospitalised has also shown a year on year increase – up to nearly 3,800.
Seven of the top ten countries where assistance