International travel

Hazards

Examples of possible control

Health

Do you have a medical condition that may be an issue when travelling?

e.g. asthma if you are going to a polluted or humid environment or triggered by the Flu

• Obtain clearance from a qualified medical practitioner and advice on how to manage any health issues.
• Make sure you know the numbers for local hospitals/Doctors of your destinations.
• Consider carrying a small First Aid kit
• Check prior to leaving what vaccinations you need or medication to carry (e.g. malaria).

Will you need to carry any prescriptive medication?

• Check if certain medications are prohibited in the country you are travelling to.
• Carry medication in original packaging and with a Doctor’s prescription or letter.
• If you need to purchase more medication when overseas – have the scripts prior to leaving, use reputable brands only.

Are you psychologically fit for the tasks you may be undertaking?

• Have systems in place to manage fatigue or stress. Factor in sufficient rest days.
• Take contact details of someone you can talk to/resources you can access if you need to.

• Check vaccination requirements of the destination country before travelling.
• Carry PPE such as masks in case there is an outbreak.
• Have contingency plans in case you get sick or need to isolate – identify support people if possible.
• Know where the closest medical clinic is.
• Know what the local protocols are regarding COVID – i.e. need to test or isolate.
• Reduce your risk of getting COVID by using good respiratory and hand hygiene, social distancing etc….
• Avoid crowded places where possible- markets, public transport, share accommodation.
• Check your insurance for what may / may not be covered.

Food and Water

Will you have access to safe reliable drinking water/food?

• Arrange to find/ purchase extra water/food in towns before you travel to more remote locations.
• Is the water safe to drink - confirm at your accommodation provider.

Security

What risk to your personal safety or property might you face?

Think of your safety when working e.g. conducting interviews or observing groups

• Make arrangements with the hotel to keep luggage/ belongings/ documents secure. Use money belts and other security devices.

• Try not to travel or work alone (especially in remote areas), arrange to meet a contact of the host organisation or others travelling for the same purpose (e.g. other conference delegates/ research contacts).

• Use accommodation that you know is reputable.
• Familiarise yourself with emergency evacuation routes in your hotel
• Only meet people in the lobby.
• Do not allow guests into your room.

Local Travel

Are you undertaking significant travel by road, rail, bike or boat when overseas?

• Make sure you understand local road rules if driving.
• Try to hire or use services that are reputable and reliable - ask your hotel or local contact if in doubt.
• If you travel at night use an official taxi

Culture and Laws

What aspects of the country's culture might place you at risk?

• Wear culturally appropriate clothing (pack scarves, long sleeves etc.)
• Be respectful of cultural practices e.g. areas where male or females may not go.
• Check local laws around things like alcohol and medications.
• Understand places where you may or may not be able to access/ photograph/ interview or talk e.g. places of religious or political significance.

Natural Disasters and Environment

Will you be in an area prone to natural disasters - cyclone, fire, flooding etc.

• Make sure you know where to access local information and updates.
• Have emergency contacts numbers with you.
• Ensure you know the locations of local hospitals & the Consulate.
• Consider carrying emergency supplies.
• Consider where you will evacuate to if needed.
• Contact the University and update your location and situation as soon as possible.

Will you be exposed to weather extremes – extreme e.g. heat or cold

• Make sure you have appropriate clothing and supplies (e.g. sun cream, coats, water).
• Make sure you check local weather forecasts if work is weather dependent.

Work Conditions

Will you or could you be exposed to hazardous plant/ equipment, biological, chemical, radioactive materials?

• Make sure you receive induction and training before working in these areas don’t assume legislative requirements and work practices are the same.
• Consider taking appropriate Personal Protective Equipment or other safety equipment (e.g. harness) if you are not sure you will be able to source it at your destination.
• Ensure you have a local contact or supervisor who can provide advice on work practices/ procedures.

Communication

Will you be able to contact help if you need to?

• Check whether you have mobile coverage/ landline access.
• Ensure you have the numbers for local hospitals, police, consulate, insurance company & emergency hotlines with you.
• Carry relevant University details to enable you to contact Supervisor and to “check in”
• Make sure your itinerary details are up to date and correct – provide accommodation numbers where possible.
• Make sure your Emergency contact details are recorded (i.e. your parent / spouse).
• Consider carrying a satellite phone or SPOT device for areas where mobile coverage may not be guaranteed.

Field Work

Have you risk-assessed any work involving field (or outdoor work), diving or boating?

• See relevant Field Trip guidelines or Diving / Boating guidelines available on the WHS web site