What Is Duty of Care in Business Travel?

By Alice Nichols

Duty of care in business travel is a responsibility that companies have to their employees when they are sent to travel on behalf of the business. It covers a range of topics and issues related to the safety and well-being of the traveler, ranging from physical safety to mental health. Companies must ensure that they are providing their employees with the appropriate level of care while travelling in order to keep them safe and prevent any possible liability.

The first step towards ensuring duty of care for business travelers is risk assessment. Companies should assess potential risks associated with the trip and take appropriate steps to mitigate those risks. This could include information about potential political, environmental or health risks in the area where travel is taking place, as well as any specific security measures which may be necessary for safe travel.

Companies should also provide their employees with adequate training before embarking on a business trip. Employees should be made aware of any safety procedures which must be followed while travelling, as well as any necessary vaccinations or medications which may be needed for their destination. Any additional support services such as medical assistance should also be discussed and arranged if necessary.

Once on their journey, companies must ensure that they regularly check-in with their travelers and provide them with any necessary assistance during their stay. This could include providing information about local services such as medical care or providing advice about safe areas for travel within a given location. Companies should also keep an eye on news reports in order to stay informed about any potential changes in the political or security situation at the traveler’s destination.

Conclusion

Duty of care in business travel is an essential responsibility that companies have towards their employees when sending them away on trips. By assessing potential risks before departure, providing adequate training and support, and regularly checking-in with their travelers while abroad, companies can ensure that they are providing the best level of duty of care possible.