International SOS Foundation launches first-of-its-kind Global Framework

International SOS Foundation launches first-of-its-kind global framework on safety, health and security for international travellers

• Only 32% of the 628 organisations we surveyed conduct person/location risk assessments prior to expatriate assignments
• A recent PWC report estimates a 50% growth in mobile workers by 2020
• Companies need to look beyond direct employees and assess the risk to the whole umbrella of business travellers including volunteers, students, trainees, dependents and sub-contractors
• Insurance is no longer enough when it comes to ensuring health and safety of travellers

The International SOS Foundation, together with over 13 leading international health, safety and security experts, today launched the world’s first global framework to protect workers travelling or on overseas assignments. The document provides strategic guidance for organisations to identify hazards and threats and manage risks to ensure the safety, health and security of its workers.

Laurent Fourier, Director, International SOS Foundation said, “This is the first ever international framework and the timing is crucial as international business travel is growing faster than ever before. A recent PWC report found that a 50% growth in mobile workers is expected by 2020.

As businesses are shifting towards emerging and riskier markets and sending more workers, and their dependents, abroad - they need to make sure they are responsible and ensure the health and safety of those employees”.

Bridging the gap in occupational health

Most instruments available to help protect workers’ safety and health are focused on domestic issues. Furthermore, only two countries, Australia and Canada, have standards and legislation which extend the provisions of occupational safety and health laws to workers outside their home country.

The report was compiled by Dr David Gold, Senior Consultant to the International SOS Foundation:“While many organisations have occupational health practices in place for domestic employees, only 32% of the 628 organisations we surveyed conduct person/location risk assessments prior to expatriate assignments. This is very low when you consider that conducting a pre-assignment risk assessment is probably the most important step in any overseas occupational health policy.

Clearly many businesses have a gap which needs to be bridged if they want to meet their responsibilities to their workers. This framework provides practical measures that theycan implement to protect those working or travelling abroad”, said Dr Gold.

 
Extending beyond just employees and insurance

Janet Asherson from the International Organisation of Employers said, “Often when we talk about business responsibility, we are thinking about directly-employed workers. However in the modern globalised world organisations must look beyond this. Instead companies need to look at the whole umbrella of business travellers including volunteers, students, trainees, dependents and sub-contractors.

Organisations need to remember that insurance is no longer enough when it comes to ensuring the health and safety of these travellers. Prevention is better than cure and organisations need comprehensive policies focusing on international travel to ensure they are living up to their responsibilities.”

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