In exploring our world, we are often exposed to greater risks than at home. Risk is an inevitable part of everyday life, no human activity is 100% safe and the further we get from familiar environments the greater these risks may become.
Whilst we do all that we can to minimise the risks that are within our control, it is central to our philosophy that some of the risks encountered whilst travelling, in part contribute to the adventure and learning experience to be had. Were we to remove these risks altogether the PoD customers would have a significantly poorer experience.
It must be recognised however that, by definition, where there is risk, serious accidents sometimes can and do happen. This must be made clear up front to potential volunteers and their families.
While there are undoubted risks in travelling and living abroad it is important to recognise that these can be minimised by simple and sensible behaviours. The majority of people living, working and travelling in the countries in which PoD works have a healthy, enjoyable and trouble-free stay.
Risk Management PolicyPoD takes the health and safety of our customers, our staff and local people seriously. We have a staged approach to managing the risks and health and safety implications that may be encountered in our locations and placements:
Stage 1 - Careful choice of locations and placements
Stage 2 - Training and informing staff
Stage 3 - Assessing risks at each location and taking appropriate action to minimise risks
Stage 4 - Incident Management Plans
Stage 5 - A reliable communications structure
Stage 6 - A clear structure of roles and responsibilities within PoD
Stage 7 - Careful volunteer / customer selection
Stage 8 - Informing and training volunteers
Stage 9 - Ongoing monitoring of placements and customers
Stage 10 - Incident reports
Stage 11 - Review and feedback
PoD chooses to take out specialist crisis management insurance. PoD is a partner of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office's 'Know Before You Go' Campaign.
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