Page 49 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT MAY 2024

5/7/24, 9:02 AM Health and Security Abroad: The Smart Business Move

Costs of Neglecting Worker Health Revealed;

Experts Advocate Proactive Measures for

Financial and Human Well-being.

In today’s globalised business landscape, where international assignments and

business trips are commonplace, overlooking the health, safety, and security of mobile
workers can have severe financial repercussions for organisations. According to recent

findings from International SOS, a health and security services company, failed
international assignments alone can result in a staggering cost of USD 1.25 million per

incident.

These insights, derived from International SOS's Return on Investment

report developed in collaboration with Ipsos and KPMG, underscore the critical need for
effective strategies and best practices in managing the well-being of a company's

mobile workforce.

Katherine Avery, Tax Principal at KPMG, emphasises the significance of striking a

balance between managing costs and ensuring employee experience. She stresses the
importance of engaging with internal global mobility teams early in the planning stages

to optimise the employee experience while effectively managing costs and compliance.

Dr. Neil Nerwich, Group Medical Director at International SOS, highlights the proactive

measures essential for cost containment, particularly in preventing medical incidents
through preparation and education before deployment and travel. He emphasises the

role of early intervention, which not only significantly impacts medical outcomes but also
mitigates business disruption for clients.

Moreover, the Return on Investment report delves into the cost-effectiveness of travel
risk prevention strategies. It reveals that preventive health check programs can yield

substantial returns, with every USD 1.00 invested potentially resulting in a USD 2.53
return. Additionally, partnering with third-party specialist organisations for mental health

support programs and resources has been shown to improve employee well-being and
resilience, as reported by 72 percent of HR specialists.

In light of these findings, it is evident that prioritising the health, safety, and security of
mobile workers is not just a moral imperative but also a business decision. By investing

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