As we approach the upcoming festive season, businesses worldwide are gearing up for a surge in employee travel and celebratory gatherings. Amidst the anticipation, it is imperative for employers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their global workforce. International SOS provides expert guidance to assist organizations in effectively managing travel risks and ensuring the protection of their employees during this festive period.
The holiday season often brings forth a distinct set of travel considerations and challenges, particularly in terms of ensuring the safety and well-being of a diverse workforce. Persistent safety and security risks, such as severe weather events and criminal activities, could pose significant threats during travel.
Risks such as scams, pickpocketing, and stolen passports are prevalent during periods of increased travel and crowded settings. These risks are particularly heightened during festive gatherings, Christmas markets, and religious services.
Recent studies have indicated a notable increase in serious crowd accidents, where large gatherings have resulted in injuries or fatalities, across the globe over the past 20 years. Additionally, relevant to the festive period, one study revealed that religious festivals had surpassed sporting events as the most likely situation to result in a crowd crush. The recent escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas raises the threat of isolated acts of violence at places of worship and other religious gatherings.
Moreover, with the onset of winter in the northern hemisphere, there is an elevated risk stemming from airline and airport personnel calling in sick due to the seasonal surge in flu and other illnesses. This could potentially lead to travel disruptions during the holiday season.
It is also crucial for organisations to have clear communication protocols in place for reporting security incidents and ensuring that prompt assistance is readily available when needed. In the event of a significant incident, clear, wide-reaching proactive communication from security management covering the organisation’s response goes a long way toward appeasing anxieties and elucidating the next steps. By implementing proactive measures and fostering a culture of risk awareness, employers can empower their workforce to make informed decisions and enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season.
Michael Rogers, Chief Security Analyst at International SOS
Employers should prioritize the health and wellness of their employees, especially during the holiday season when travel and celebrations can affect their overall well-being.Employers should prioritize the health and wellness of their employees, especially during the holiday season when travel and celebrations can affect their overall well-being.
Top travel health and safety tips for employers during the festive period:
- Ensure employees conduct pre-travel risk assessments and receive guidelines on travel safety and health precautions.
- Encourage employees to schedule a travel health consultation well in advance to promote health and wellness.
- Encourage employees to exercise situational awareness and trust their instincts when navigating crowds.
- Remind employees to be aware of their surroundings, stay vigilant, and keep their valuables secure or out of sight, especially in large crowds.
- Encourage employees to be respectful of local customs and traditions at their travel destination, including appropriate dress and avoiding offensive activities.
- Advise employees to maintain flexible itineraries and plan for the unexpected, keeping departure and return dates/routes as flexible as possible.
- Remind employees to stay hydrated, well-rested, and pack essential medications.
- Ensure they are aware of weather conditions and informed about the safest neighborhoods, places to stay, and incidences of crime at their destinations.
Organisations should encourage employees to pack essential medications, stay hydrated and maintain adequate sleep to minimise the risk of illnesses. It is important for travellers to know if any vaccinations are needed and if antimalarials is required for their trip. Providing access to telemedicine services can offer employees convenient and timely access to medical advice and consultations, as well as ensuring that employees receive prompt and appropriate care if they feel unwell during their travels.
Dr Kate O’Reilly, Regional Medical Director at International SOS