For hotel accommodation, select
a four-star property at minimum, if
possible with WiFi facilities.
Audit hotels in medium- and highrisk
destinations from a safety and
security point of view. Always screen
the staff and ensure that security is
in place.
Ensure female travellers stay
between the second and seventh
oors in any hotel, or on a
dedicated oor for women. The
ground oor represents a risk for
female travellers, as access control
becomes a problem. Anything above
the seventh oor could represent a
re hazard.
Ensure that airport assistance is
available if necessary and that
transportation is reliable.
Always suggest that the passenger
has some, but not too much, cash in
US dollars. Many local businesses
do not accept cards.
Consider the 4 Ws and 1H (advice by
SOS International):
Where
Be aware of the ‘bad neighbourhood’
concept, which applies even to low-risk
countries. Just because a country is
considered low risk does not mean it
does not have areas of high risk.
What
There are certain dangers associated
with activities the traveller undertakes.
Business travellers may be drawn
into risky leisure activities during
downtime. Some organisations place
restrictions on taking side trips. Travel
delays also play a role, as business
travellers look for activities to occupy
their time while waiting. People also
tend to take greater risks when the
perceived threat is low.
Who
Any travel for a person with health
issues – like severe diabetes or a
heart condition – must be considered
risky. Consider the difference in risk
for male and female travellers. Also
consider whether the traveller is a
rst-timer.
When
Look at the local calendar for festivals,
holidays and events before booking
travel. Ramadan has effects on
meetings in the Middle East. Elections,
strikes and work stoppages can also
affect travel plans. Look ahead to
weather patterns; in the Caribbean for
example, hurricane season runs from
June through November.
How
Consider all the variables. Map out
the itineraries. Imagine things that
could go wrong and play out the
scenarios. Think about the unthinkable
and determine how to respond. And
remember, a measured approach to
assessing risk when it comes to travel
can help your client not only full
its duty-of-care responsibilities but
help grow successfully into new and
expanding markets.
Duty-of-care tips for agents
Comments | 0
