English
International SOS advises members in wake of earthquake in Sichuan China
Beijing
In the wake of Saturday’s earthquake in Sichuan province, International SOS, the world's leading medical and security assistance services company, is providing advice and assistance to clients with employees travelling or residing in Sichuan.
At least 188 people were reportedly killed and ten-thousand injured in the disaster, which damaged numerous buildings, blocked roads and disrupted power and telecommunications lines; the worst-affected counties are Baoxing and Lushan (both Sichuan), particularly the city of Ya'an.
Disruption to travel and essential services in these locations is likely to continue while repair and rescue operations continue, particularly in rural areas of Lushan and Baoxing. More than 1,000 aftershocks of up to magnitude 5.1 have occurred following the initial earthquake. These may continue to cause disruption depending on their strength and location.
Travel advice to International SOS members in the area
• Abide by all directives issued by the local authorities during any emergency.
• Aftershocks of varying magnitudes could pose a risk to life and property. Be alert to the dangers posed by structural damage to buildings and bridges; do not re-enter damaged buildings.
• Anticipate disruption to travel and essential services in areas affected by the earthquake. If undertaking road travel be aware that routes may be blocked by debris or subject to closure by the authorities with little or no notice.
• In the event of another strong tremor, disruption to travel and essential services may be exacerbated due to additional damage.
• Monitor the local media and our travel security alerts on China for related developments.
International SOS is monitoring the situation and encourages clients to call one of International SOS’ 27 assistance centres worldwide for further information or evacuation advice.
Up-to-date information, advice, and analysis are available on the Travel Security Online section that can be accessed from the Members’ login area on https://www.internationalsos.com/.
International SOS’ involvement in the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in Sichuan
International SOS offered important aid during the Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan, establishing a crisis centre in Chengdu and providing regular daily updates on the situation to clients around the world. International SOS’ public health specialist accompanied the Red Cross to provide on-the-ground medical support and in the wake of the event, International SOS donated funds for school and community clinic rebuilding projects in the worst affected communities.
Notes to Editors
About the International SOS Group of Companies The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting your global workforce from health and security threats. Wherever you are, we deliver customised health, security risk management and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity. In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a security incident, we provide an immediate response providing peace of mind. Our innovative technology and medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground quality delivery. We help protect your people, your organisation's reputation, as well as support your compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, organisations can fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities, while empowering business resilience, continuity and sustainability. Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group, headquartered in London & Singapore, is trusted by 12,000 organisations, including the majority of the Fortune 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions and NGOs. 12,000 multicultural medical, security and logistics experts stand with you to provide support & assistance from over 1,000 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.
To protect your workforce, we are at your fingertips: www.internationalsos.com
