Travel risk is an inherent aspect of any business trip. Even though you cannot completely eliminate the risk factor, by taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering any unexpected challenges in your business travels. As a business, it is crucial to address the top travel risks that every organization faces when sending employees on business trips.
Health Risks
Travelling to new places implies new exposures, including different types of foods, water, weather conditions, and germs. As such, you need to ensure that your employees have taken the necessary vaccinations and have enough medication to keep them healthy. You should also equip them with information about existing health risks in the area, including diseases such as malaria or yellow fever in tropical regions.
Safety Risks
Personal safety is a significant concern when travelling to different countries. There may be a higher crime rate in certain locations, including pickpocketing, muggings, and even kidnappings. It is essential to research the safety risks in the intended destination and offer your employee the necessary information and travel security tools such as GPS trackers or secure communication channels.
Insufficient Insurance Coverage
Travel insurance is essential for any trip, especially if the trip is for business. Insurance can offer financial protection in case of unexpected cancellations, illness, or loss of property. However, not all insurance policies cover everything, and it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the coverage provided by the policy. Make sure your staff knows what is and is not covered by the company’s travel insurance policy, so they won’t risk losing money on uncovered expenses.
Technology Risks
In recent years, many cyberattacks target travelers. Hackers can easily get into your employee’s device during a trip when they use public Wi-Fi, their hotel’s computer, or other unprotected networks. This can lead to data breaches, stolen or lost devices, and compromised sensitive data. Companies must provide their staff with necessary training for cyber security and issue guidelines for mobile device security and data storage before hitting the road.
Cultural Norms Risks
While travelling abroad, people encounter cultural norms that differ from their way of life. This can cause significant culture shock, leading to unwanted misunderstandings or inappropriate behaviour. To avoid such risks, provide your employees with a brief on the culture and customs of the country they plan to visit. You could also link them up with a local expert who can guide them through the cultural norms, etiquette, and even the typical communication in the region.
In conclusion, every business who sends its staff on business travel should be aware of the travel risks involved, and it’s critical to take maximum precautions to minimize these risks. By addressing these top travel risk factors, you not only ensure the safety and security of your employees but also the reputation of your business.
Publisher Details:
Risk Advisory | ManagingRisk2gether.com
https://www.managingrisk2gether.com/
Don’t wait for something to go wrong, contact us today and let’s work together to address your “Duty of Care” obligation and reduce your exposure to travel risk.
