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Health And Safety Considerations For Employees Working Abroad

Guest Blog by Jamie Costello

Before taking up a job opportunity abroad, employees need to be advised of the basic health and safety guidelines that may be applicable to their new role. There should still be procedures in place to ensure the employee’s wellbeing, no matter where in the world they are. With this in mind, here’s a look at some health and safety considerations for employees working abroad.

 

Travelling

The job role may require an employee to travel to one site or possibly several, depending on the requirements. Many jobs will involve air travel. There are a few health concerns often associated with long-haul flights that an employee should consider, such as: deep vein thrombosis, ear popping, dehydration and jet-lag. If any employee is unsure of health and safety risks associated with travelling for work, they can consult the guidelines published by the Department of Health.

Health Risks

Many countries also carry health risks specific to that area. For example, a great deal of African and southeast Asia counties will require the traveller to have a Cholera jab and sometimes Hepatitis A & B vaccination before entering. Travellers should consult their doctor who will be able to advise them on what vaccinations they may need before setting off. The list of health risks for certain countries is constantly changing as diseases come and go. For the up-to-date risks, employees should check back with the World Health Organisation website regularly.

Laws And Culture

It’s no surprise that every country will have different laws and cultures. For the employees safety and out of respect, they should familiarise themselves with the customs of each place. What may seem innocent in the UK may be considered a crime elsewhere – for example hand gestures or drinking alcohol. In some cases, some businesses may make it a priority to brief employees on what will be expected of them upon arrival. In addition to understanding customs and traditions, travellers should also be made aware of the problems that might arise from the language barrier.

Crime And Security

Much like with outbreaks of diseases, some countries have higher crime rates than others. Foreign visitors can often be targets for muggings, kidnappings and violence. Employees should be given advice on steps to avoid trouble, including: locking personal belongings away in a safe at their accommodation, keeping valuables in zipped pockets, and avoiding high crime areas whenever possible.

Consider The Climate

Staff may be asked to relocate to an area with unpredictable or sometimes dangerous weather. They could experience extremes of temperature, monsoons, hurricanes or storms. Before travelling, employees should be advised on the risks that are associated with sunburn, skin cancer and hypothermia.

Mental Wellbeing

Working abroad can take a toll on a person’s mental wellbeing. This could be feelings of isolation, sickness, frustration in language barriers and pressure with workloads. In these situations, an employee may be required to provide support. This is particularly appropriate for staff who are working abroad for long periods of time for example those moving to UK from US, separated from family and friends.

Emergency Situations

There are countless eventualities that could occur as a result of being abroad. Unpredictable instances like natural disasters, outbreaks of disease, political trouble, or a spike in crime. All of these incidents could end up putting an employees health and safety at risk. Businesses should provide employees with information regarding where to go in case of each emergency, including details about all the facilities available. The employer should also set up arrangements to ensure an instant response in the case of an emergency.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

TIPS FOR SAFELY WORKING ABROAD

The thought of being sent overseas by your company sounds pretty exciting –  a chance to see a new part of the world, sampling new types of food, and working alongside foreign employees.  

First, some serious planning should be done in order to avoid surprises later on.  Research all that you can ahead of time, so you will be better prepared.  Companies have information that is helpful to their employees and will make arrangements for their lodging, transportation, meals, etc. ahead of time.  

It is important to know the support systems that are there for foreign workers, such as emergency service facilities.  Being informed of what services are available for U.S. citizens or other working foreigners is very important. 

One can find websites on the internet that describe the conditions for travel to just about every country in the world.  There are definite warnings on which countries to avoid, as listed by these alert levels: 

  1. Do not travel;
  2. Exercise normal safety precautions;
  3. Reconsider your need to travel;
  4. High degree of caution. 

Companies could be held responsible as a result of their employees’ causing an accidental injury or death in the course of performing their duties.  The employer is responsible for ensuring that the working conditions of their employees are safe, including the security of the buildings in which they will be working.  They are also responsible for guaranteeing the level of the employee’s experience, the type of work to be done, and risk level for injury.  Also, they must ensure that the physical condition of the worker is good. 

Every company that regularly sends employees on business trips abroad needs to assess its insurance program to assure that these employees are adequately protected if they become sick or injured. Companies with employees living abroad need to be even more attentive about the insurance protection and support services they provide. 

Normally, the employee’s domestic health insurance will not be accepted by a foreign provider.  A travel assistance program can ensure that a sick or injured employee is put in contact with the best available medical care; therefore, specialized insurance is necessary to guarantee that coverage is available anywhere in the world an employee may need medical assistance.

Other reminders:  During your time off:

  • Don’t go to places that look unsafe;
  • Take a buddy or go with a group;
  • Don’t become a victim of crime; leave your valuables at home;
  • Leave your passport in the hotel safe (so you can get home);
  • Make a photocopy of your passport to keep with you at all times;
  • Make a photocopy of the passport to leave with family;
  • Pack medicines in their original containers, take extra glasses, etc;
  • Pack all the gear you need to perform your job.
  • Know where your American embassy is;
  • Leave a family contact person’s name with your employer;
  • Observe local laws and customs – you are subject to local laws in foreign countries.

Your company has entrusted you to represent them well and do a good job.  Stay safe!