Safety, Health & Environment Section
FM SHE 012a
Procedural Guidance for the
Management of Health & Safety for
Overseas Student Work Placements
Feb 2012
Version 5.0
Document review due: Feb 2014
Please Note :This is a controlled document, please ensure you are using the most recent
version.
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Summary
The following guidance document sets out University procedural guidance for the
management of health and safety for overseas student placements. The guidance outlines
the use of a formal structured management system based upon risk profiling of placements,
assessment of providers and pre-placement preparation of students.
It is centred primarily upon the University's legislative duties identified from statute and case
law and new sector best practice and guidance issued by the Universities & Colleges
Employers Association (UCEA) and ASET.
This document is applicable to all overseas student placements arranged by a member of
University staff, or by the student themselves, where that placement is part of the student’s
course of study.
If you are unsure as to whether this guidance is directly applicable to you please, contact the
University’s Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) Section for further advice on (01772 89)
2232.
The health and safety of students on placement is paramount and overrides all other
considerations, including academic
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Contents
Page
1. Introduction
4
1.1 Definitions
4
2. Scope
4
3. Legislative Requirements
5
4. Responsibilities
5
4.1 Responsibilities of Deans of School / Heads of Service
4.2 Responsibilities of the Placement Organiser
4.3 Responsibilities of the Placement Provider
4.4 Responsibilities of the Placement Student
5. Assessing Potential Placements
5
5
6
6
7
5.1 Student Placement Letter of Expectation
5.2 Students ‘Fitness’ for Placement
5.3. Travel Risk Assessments
5.4 Risk Profiling
5.5 Specific Risks and Actions
5.6 Multiple placements with the same provider
5.7 Approving Placements
5.8 Provider Assessment Period
5.9 Assessing Placement Providers During Visits
6. Providing Work Placements for Disabled Students
6.1 Disclosure of Disability
7
7
8
9
9
10
11
11
11
12
13
7. Preparing Students / Student Involvement
7.1 LOCATE
7.2 Providers Induction Training
7.3 Pre-Placement Workplace Safety Training for Students
7.4 Safeguarding
13
14
14
15
15
8. Insurance Requirements
16
9. Training for Placement Organisers
16
10. Communication
16
11. Post Placement Review
17
12. Record Keeping
17
13. Accident & Incident Reporting
17
14. References
18
15. Appendix
19
1. Letter of Expectation
2. Confidential Personal Details Form
3. Risk Profiling and Specific Actions Matrix
4. Travel Risk Assessments
5. Risk Profiling Form & Worked Examples
6. Onsite Work Placement Health & Safety Assessment Checklist
7. Student Placement Induction Checklist
8. Workplace Health & Safety Information for Students on Placement
9. Overseas Travel Checklist
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20
22
24
29
34
37
39
40
51
1. Introduction
Student work placements can be an important part of the University learning experience. A
placement may in reality be a student’s first exposure to work, and as such act as a
significant step in helping them develop key competencies and skills, while greatly
enhancing their employability.
Overseas placements can provide a wealth of both work and leisure time experiences for
students that can prove invaluable to their course of study, future employment and personal
achievement.
Placement provider’s benefit from having the enthusiasm and skills of an intelligent and
hardworking undergraduate, bringing a new perspective with an up-to-date knowledge of
techniques and theories to the work environment.
Work placements benefit the University greatly by strengthening existing, and building vital
new partnerships with industry and businesses overseas, a fundamental element of the
University’s corporate strategy and objectives. Crucial to a successful student placement is
that it is enjoyable, rewarding and above all safe.
Concern has been raised in the education sector however in relation to the exposure of
institutions to both criminal prosecution and civil claims liability arising out of student
placements. Additionally during the past 12 months there has been considerable and
unexpected civil unrest in a number of countries and a number of environmental disasters
that have led to significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
Overseas placements and the associated travel requires additional advance planning, care
and common sense. It should be noted that travel abroad may expose students to a number
of health and safety hazards arising specifically from the travel itself and/or the conditions
within the country being visited. These may not be necessarily directly work-related.
1.1 Definitions (UCEA 2009 & ASET 2010)
Overseas – Outside of the UK
Placement - A period or work experience, paid or unpaid;

Which is undertaken as an integral part of the student’s course of study; and

Where the student is enrolled at the HEI during this period; and

Where there is the transfer of direct supervision of the student to the third party.
Placement Organiser – A person to whom authority is devolved for authorising the
placement of a student.
Placement Provider – A third party (usually an employer) who, during the placement, has
responsibility for the direct supervision of the student.
Visiting Tutor – Any individual authorised by the HEI to visit a student while on placement.
Workplace supervisor - A person designated by the placement provider to supervise, from
time to time, the student during the placement.
2. Scope
The following document sets out University procedural guidance for the management of
health and safety for student placements based overseas. Separate guidance is available
for UK placements but follows a similar process.
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It is applicable to all overseas based student placements arranged either by a member of
University staff, or by the student themselves, where that placement is part of the student’s
course of study.
This guidance is based primarily upon the University's legislative duties identified from
statute and case law, sector best practice, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office and from
new sector guidance issued by the Universities & Colleges Employer’s Association (UCEA)
and ASET the professional body for placement and employability staff. It is intended to assist
you in complying with relevant University procedures, the law and offers practical advice to
help ensure the health, safety and welfare of students on overseas placement.
3. Legislative Requirements
The University has a statutory duty of care to protect, so far as is reasonably practicable, the
health, safety and welfare of its students while on placement overseas.
Managers, under the requirements of Regulation 3 of The Management of Health & Safety at
Work Regulations 1999, must ensure that all work placements are covered by a suitable and
sufficient risk assessment and that appropriate control measures have been adopted.
Under the Equality Act 2010 it is unlawful for a school or other education provider to treat a
disabled student unfavourably this includes student placements. Such treatment could
amount to:




direct discrimination
indirect discrimination
discrimination arising from a disability
harassment
Procedural guidance also relevant to student placements:

Procedural Guidance for UK Placements

Procedural Guidance for Overseas Staff Travel

Travel/Transport Environmental Management Procedure

Risk Assessment for Activities Involving Disabled Staff & Students
4. Responsibilities
There are four main parties to a placement, the Dean of School / Head of Service who
delegates placement management to the Placement Organiser, the student and the
Placement Provider. Each has specific responsibilities.
4.1 Responsibilities of Deans of School / Heads of Service
Deans must ensure that all overseas student placements involving their school / service are
managed in accordance with this procedure and staff with responsibility for organising and
assessing placement providers are adequately trained in the process and allocated sufficient
time and resources to complete the task.
4.2 Responsibilities of the Placement Organiser

to assess the suitability of the proposed placement;


to obtain confirmation of the health and safety management arrangements of the host
organisation and agreement of arrangements and responsibilities through a Letter of
Expectation;
to assess students ‘fitness’ and general suitability for a specific placement;

to ensure placement students are adequately covered by liability insurance;
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
to complete a Student Placement Risk Profile Form for each placement;

to ensure the student completes a travel risk assessment for their placement that is
‘suitable and sufficient’;

to ensure students are aware of their health and safety responsibilities, to the University,
the placement provider, their work colleagues and for their own health, safety and
welfare;

to have active involvement in health and safety issues in respect of the placement;

to provide reasonable adjustments in supporting disabled students obtaining placement
and provide on-going support to students and placement provider during the placement.
4.3 Responsibilities of the Placement Provider

complete, sign and return the University’s Overseas Student Placement Letter of
Expectation;

to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of the
placement student;

to appraise the risks that the placement student is exposed too and share any significant
findings of the assessment with the student;

to provide general induction and specific training in respect of the tasks to be undertaken
during the placement;

to provide general health and safety information, instruction, training and supervision;

to meet all statutory health and safety requirements (e.g. conducting risk assessment,
etc.);

to report accidents and incidents to the Placement Organiser, for monitoring and
reporting purposes;

to ensure disability related adjustments on placement are provided.
4.4 Responsibilities of the Placement Student:


if the student arranges their own placement they must provide to their Placement
Organiser in good time, all relevant contact details for the provider and any other
information deemed necessary, to allow the placement tutor to assess the providers
health and safety management arrangements;
not to commence placement until the placement is passed by their Placement Organiser;

to complete a travel risk assessment for the placement;

seeking confirmation from their GP that they are fit to travel particularly for ‘long-haul’
flights and have the necessary vaccinations as required;

declaring any relevant pre-existing medical condition or disability that could be potentially
worsened by the proposed overseas travel/activity;*

same as any other ‘employee’ of the placement provider;
to return as soon as practicable to the UK if requested to do so by the University;



to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of other people who may
be affected by their actions or omissions;
to co-operate with the placement provider and Placement Organiser in complying with
their legal duties and specifically any requirements highlighted by the risk assessment
process;

to conduct duties and use equipment as instructed by the placement provider;

to inform their Workplace Supervisor of any immediate health and safety risks or
shortfalls and their Placement Organiser if they are not resolved;
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
to notify their Placement Organiser of any significant changes to their expected work
activities;

to check the country specific safety advice on the UK’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office
(FCO) website and comply with its requirements;

providing their Placement Organiser with a travel itinerary covering issues such as flight
numbers, departure times, accommodation address, telephone number and any other
relevant contact details;

if they are a British national registering with the FCO LOCATE scheme (section 7.1).
*Please note: A student is not required to disclose a disability, but non-disclosure may affect
the nature and level of adjustment that can be put in place.
5. Assessing Potential Placements
Four factors need to be considered in the assessment of potential overseas placements:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The health & safety management arrangements of the provider
Student’s individual factors;
The expected work activities to be undertaken and the;
Specific travel safety advice for the country / region.
5.1 Student Placement Overseas Letter of Expectation
All potential overseas placement providers must be sent the Overseas Student Placement
Letter of Expectation (appendix 1.). The Letter is intended to help ensure compliance by
detailing the University’s expectations for the management of health and safety and to clarify
roles and responsibilities of the University, the provider and the student.
Even though health and safety legislation may vary from country to country the fundamental
protection of workers tends to be similar, particularly in the EU, North America and
Australasia. The University expects that no matter what county the work placement is in, the
provider should still provide a safe and healthy working environment.
The text of the Letter may be incorporated into existing documentation i.e. placement
learning agreements. The important thing is that providers acknowledge the expectations
and responsibilities and return either in hard copy or electronically a signed and dated copy.
If a provider does not agree to the expectations and responsibilities clarification should be
sought on the reason why and the issues discussed with the SHE Section.
Note: No placement should commence until a provider agrees to the expectations and
responsibilities set by the University.
5.2 Students ‘Fitness’ for Placement
In conjunction with the provider the University has a duty in relation to the proposed
placement, to ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’, make an assessment of student’s
‘fitness/suitability for work’ and general capabilities prior to their placement commencing.
Assessment is crucial to ensure that the student has the correct skills and general
capabilities for that particular work placement and that any pre-existing health conditions are
not worsened by a particular placement activity, by the travel and/or country specific
conditions and that they do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
Students must therefore complete and return to their Placement Organiser the Student
Placement Confidential Personal Details Form (appendix 2). The Organiser should then
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appraise the form in relation to the proposed work activities and any specific health, disability
or other issues that may be relevant to a work placement opportunity.
If there is any doubt as to the significance of the health effects of a particular
workplace/activity, or the significance of a student’s pre-existing health condition or disability,
the Placement Organiser should seek advice from the SHE Section (ext 2047).
See also Section 6. Disclosure of Disability and Section 6.1. Providing Work Placements for
Disabled Students
5.3 Travel Risk Assessments
Students undertaking overseas placements are required to complete an overseas travel risk
assessment detailing the risks and controls associated with the travel and their living
arrangements overseas. Students are required to do this to give them an insight and
understanding of the risks and health and safety controls required, for safe travel and living
in the specified country (see also Section 7. Preparing Students). A comprehensive
template risk assessment has been developed to assist students in the process (appendix
3).
It is essential that students consult the country specific safety advice given on the FCO’s
travelling and living abroad website. Specific safety advice should be incorporated within the
body of the template risk assessment to ensure it is relevant to the country and area being
visited. Particular attention should be paid to countries or specific areas where the FCO
advise against ‘all’ or ‘all but essential travel’.
Please Note: No student is permitted to travel to any country or area where the FCO advise
against ‘all’ or ‘all but essential travel’. The FCO define ‘essential travel’ as consular work,
emergency humanitarian aid, etc., and not business, personal travel, placement, etc.
Additionally no student should be expected to travel to a country or to a specific area where
there are legitimate concerns about personal health or safety expressed by the FCO, e.g.
due to a high risk of sectarian violence, terrorism, etc.
Where a student completes a risk assessment several weeks before travel is to commence,
it must be reviewed against the latest travel safety advice from the FCO to ensure the risk
assessment is still current and the safety advice still relevant.
Example issues which may require consideration during the risk assessment process
include:














Generic and specific safety advice given by the FCO;
mode of transport - both to, from and within the country and location being visited;
student ‘fitness’ to undertake the proposed travel / work placement activity;
suitability / location of accommodation;
specific health related travel issues e.g. jet lag, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), manual
handling, etc., and diseases spread by animals, insects and personal contact
essential and advised immunisation/vaccinations required;
personal safety e.g. accidents, crime, political instability, local customs and laws;
country specific legislation and/or customs;
climate/season e.g. hot/cold/humid extremes, some diseases are also weather/season
dependent;
planned work activities – conference, data gathering, etc., and leisure time activities;
location being visited e.g. urban and rural travel may pose different risks;
lone working issues;
duration of trip - short trips may be of lower risk;
health advice - including food/water hygiene, travellers diarrhoea and risks from local
food and its preparation/handling, contaminated water, soil and airborne organisms;
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
emergency and contingency arrangements including medical and travel insurance
(including repatriation).
Additional practical advice on travel to a specific country can also often be gained by talking
to other students or staff who have experience of the particular country.
Further information and advice can be found in the University’s procedure Risk Assessment
for Activities Involving Disabled Staff & Students.
5.4 Risk Profiling
Using the Student Placement Risk Profiling Matrix (appendix 3.), the student’s travel risk
assessment, the background knowledge you have of the ‘industry’ the student will be going
into, the proposed work activities, information from the student’s CPD form and any other
information the provider may have supplied along with the completed Letter of Expectation,
you should judge the risk profile for the placement against the following 7 health and safety
factors
1. Work Factors - Risks associated with student’s expected work activities, the extent
to which they will be exposed to them and the provider’s existing control measures to
mitigate those risks;
2. Location and/or Region - Risks related to crime, civil disorder, remote working, etc.,
FCO travel advice, etc.
3. Individual Student Factors - Skills, abilities, pre-existing medical conditions,
disability, etc.;
4. Insurance limitations - Provider has adequate insurance in place to cover the
student on placement, UCLan Overseas Student Travel Policy;
5. Safeguarding – Issues related to work with children or vulnerable adults (e.g. CRB
checks, training, etc.);
6. General / Environmental Health Factors - Risks associated with for example,
regional/local health risks, very hot or cold working conditions, requirement for
inoculations, etc.;
7. Travel & Transportation - Risks associated with commuting to/from work, driving for
work purposes, etc.
The results should be recorded on the Risk Profiling Form (appendix 4.). Some placements
may be naturally of low risk e.g. office based, business, IT, education, retail, etc., within the
EU, North America or Australasia and therefore the Profiling process will be relatively
straightforward. This will allow greater resources to be focused on higher risk placements
e.g. construction, agriculture, workshops, labs, etc., and/or where the country/region present
greater health, safety and welfare issues. Two worked examples of the form can be found
at the end of appendix 4.
Placements falling into potentially ‘high risk’ categories during profiling will require additional
information to be submitted by the provider or the student to ensure risk is adequately
controlled. This requirement should be recorded under the Specific Risks & Actions sections
of the profiling form.
5.5 Specific Risks and Actions
Where significant risks are raised by the risk profiling process these must be addressed with
the placement provider or clarified with the student and suitable control measures identified.
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A number of example specific actions are given in the Risk Profiling Matrix. Actions required
will be very much dependent upon the issue, the country/region, the level of risk involved,
the cooperation received from the provider and the student themselves.
Where providers do not initially meet the required standard further clarification from the
provider will be necessary, in such circumstances the placement should not be approved
until the Placement Organiser is satisfied the specific actions have been resolved.
Where providers are not forthcoming with adequate supplementary information, the
Placement Organiser should contact the University’s SHE Section (ext: 2047) for advice on
the necessary course of action. Where providers continue to impart a negative response to
questions, a refusal of that placement will be necessitated.
If you require any assistance in Risk Profiling a particular placement, you should consider
consulting a member of staff with expertise in the providers industry and/or contact the SHE
Section for advice.
5.6 Multiple Placements with the Same Provider
If multiple students are being placed with a provider for a similar work activity then the
student’s names merely have to be added to a single Risk Profiling Form as long as no
significant issues have been identified in any of the student’s CPD Forms. If issues have
been raised it is advised that a new student / provider specific Risk Profiling Form be
completed.
Placement Approval Flow Chart
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5.7 Approving Placements
When you are satisfied that the Risk Profile Form is complete and any necessary actions
completed the placement can be approved. Approval should be formally communicated to
both the provider and student.
A placement should not commence until the Risk Profiling process is complete and all
actions resolved.
If a student indicates that they intend to commence placement before approval has been
finalised or start with a provider who has failed the approval process, then the student must
be informed in writing that they undertake the placement under their own volition, the
University cannot accept any responsibility for their health, safety or welfare and that the
placement will not fulfill any of their course requirements.
5.8 Provider Assessment Period
Once a placement provider has been appraised for a specific low risk placement (e.g. office
work, a hotel receptionist, etc.), that provider will only require assessing on a bi-annual basis
for that same work activity and as long as country/region specific FCO advice remains the
same.
Medium and high-risk placements (e.g. site based construction work, agriculture, workshops,
labs, etc.) will require assessing annually.
Any placement that will involve a new work activity with an existing approved provider will
require that provider to be re-assessed using the Risk Profiling Matrix.
If multiple students are being placed with one placement provider for a similar work activity
then it is only required to assess that provider once, as long as the work activity remains the
same and the above assessment periods are adhered to.
5.9 Assessing Placement Providers During Visits
As part of its duty of care, it may be necessary where practicable to reinforce the risk
profiling process by visiting providers and directly assessing the workplace.
During visits, staff are asked to make simple health and safety checks on the placement
provider's health and safety management arrangements. The purpose of these checks is to
assess the effectiveness of the provider's basic health and safety arrangements in relation to
the information provided by the placement provider during the pre-placement phase
(ensuring policy is put into practice). An assessment checklist and guidance for its
completion can be found in appendix 5.
The timing and frequency of visits should be appropriate to the placement, taking into
account:







responses provided to the Letter of Expectation;
the expected work activities and industry type;
the results of the risk profiling process and any specific actions required;
subsequent changes in the placement location or work activities;
the duration of the placement;
geographical location and associated costs and resources available for visits;
feedback from all sources (e.g. the student, the provider, the visiting tutor, others).
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General guide to visit frequency
Placement Type
Office
type
based
activities,
administration, education, retail, design
studios, etc.
Risk Band
Low Risk
Laboratories, metal/wood workshops,
security, manual work, sports, printing,
wholesale / warehousing, animal care,
social work, etc.
Agriculture, forestry, construction (site
based),
motor
repair,
transport,
engineering, dangerous sports, etc.
Medium Risk
Visit Frequency
No
pre-placement
required.
visit
Contact by email
No
pre-placement
required.
visit
Contact by email
High Risk
Visit determined by individual
risk assessment
Robust
communication
process in place
Please Note: For disabled students applying for placement, an assessment should be made
as to whether the provider requires a pre-placement visit, no matter what the placement type
or its associated risk band for instance to assess accessibility, requirement for reasonable
adjustments, etc.
Staff must act on any health and safety shortfalls or concerns they observe or are brought to
their attention by the student they are visiting and take such actions as would be appropriate
to ensure a student’s health and safety whilst on placement.
Serious concerns should be raised immediately with the placement provider, if they are not
rectified the placement should be suspended immediately. Minor issues should be brought
to the attention of the Placement Organiser via the assessment checklist, the Placement
Organiser should then discuss the issues with the providers nominated health and safety
contact.
The SHE Section can provide to staff specific advice regarding the on-site assessment
process and completion of relevant paperwork upon request.
6. Providing Work Placements for Disabled Students
Under the Equality Act 2010 it is unlawful for an education provider to treat a disabled
student unfavorably. Such treatment could amount to:




direct discrimination
indirect discrimination
discrimination arising from a disability
harassment
The Act applies to all the activities institutions undertake wholly or mainly for students,
including placements overseas. Disabled students must be offered additional support both
in finding work placements and when they are on them.
For detailed information on providing work placements for disabled students see the
Department for Education & Skills good practice guide for further and higher education
institutions at: http://www.lifelonglearning.co.overseas/placements/index.htm This document
provides a guide to institutions' duties in regard to work placements and offers practical
advice on what institutions can do to ensure quality work placement opportunities for
disabled students. It is aimed at institution staff responsible for placements: placement
organisers, subject tutors and disability officers/learning support coordinators.
Further information and advice on disability awareness can be found on the University’s
Disability Advisory Service web site at:
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http://www.uclan.ac.overseas/information/services/sss/disability_services.php
6.1 Disclosure of Disability
Students may feel reticent to reveal a disability for fear of compromising the potential of
placement.
It is therefore essential that organisers promote positive reasons for
encouraging disability disclosure, particularly for placements overseas where support
systems and access to medical facilities may not be as readily available as in the UK.
In certain circumstances there may be a need to disclose to the provider information to allow
suitable adjustments to be made, particularly if the use of dangerous chemicals, machinery,
work with children etc., is involved.
Students need to be made fully aware that in some cases adjustments cannot be made
without prior disclosure being given (although the University has a duty to take reasonable
steps to encourage students to disclose a disability, students do have the right to
confidentiality).
In discussing with a student whether and what to disclose to a work placement provider, the
following issues may be relevant:





the need to have appropriate information so that reasonable adjustments can be made;
the institution’s and the student’s responsibilities towards staff and clients/visitors at the
placement provider;
safeguards for ensuring that information will not be used to discriminate against the
disabled student;
safeguards for ensuring confidentiality of information and details on who will have access
to the information;
who will make the disclosure – whether this will be undertaken by the institution or by the
student.
Please Note: Information on a disability will only be used to inform the risk assessment
process and to determine and to perform reasonable adjustment. Not all information about a
student’s disability may be relevant to the work placement and should only be passed on a
need-to-know basis. “Information which is disclosed in confidence to a member of staff will
be kept confidential to that member of staff unless there are risks to health and safety or the
University has a statutory duty to release the information” (Uclan Policy Statement on
Disclosure of Disabilities).
All information must be kept in accordance with the University’s Data Protection Code of
Practice, available at:
http://www.uclan.ac.overseas/information/services/sds/data_protection_code_of_practice.php
7. Preparing Students
It should be noted that travel abroad may expose students to a number of health and safety
hazards arising specifically from the travel itself and/or the conditions within the country
being visited. These may not be necessarily directly work-related. It is therefore essential
that students are fully aware of all the issues involved.
The amount / level of information that the student will need in advance will depend greatly on
the country/region, the industry, the work activities and the potential risk involved. Every
student intending to go on placement should therefore be actively encouraged to seek
further information on issues such as:


The county specific safety advice issued by the FCO;
The generic travel health and safety advice issued by the FCO;
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



Likely work activities;
Generic risks in that industry / work activities;
Methods and safety of commuting to the placement/accommodation;
Where relevant seeking confirmation from their GP that any pre-existing medical
conditions or disability will not be worsened by the travel, general or specific work
placement activities or the locations they are working / living in (e.g. cities with high
temperature and pollution levels in Summer and the effects on those with severe
asthma).
This process is invaluable in preparing the student for placement and helping them to
complete their own travel risk assessment (see Section 5.3) and therefore help them
understand the risks related to their placement and its associated travel so they can make
informed judgments on their own safety.
Students must also be given a copy of the Letter of Expectation completed for the placement
so they are fully aware of providers, the University’s and their own responsibilities. If
significant risks were raised during the risk profiling process these should also be discussed
with the student prior to them going on placement including the control measures identified
to mitigate those risks.
A general guide to overseas travel and workplace health and safety for students can be
found in appendix 6 a copy should be given to students pre-placement.
An overseas pre-travel checklist can be found in appendix 9.
7.1. LOCATE
If you are a planning to travel abroad, the FCO advise all British nationals even for short trips
to register with their LOCATE scheme. The information you provide can then be used by the
FCO / local UK embassy in the country you are visiting to alert you of any relevant travel
concerns as well as contact you in the event of an emergency. The embassy and their crisis
staff can then give you better assistance should a problem arise.
If you are already registered with LOCATE and intend another trip, you can simply, login and
update your LOCATE account and they will let the relevant British embassy know.
7.2 Providers Induction Training
Placement providers must provide health and safety induction training students, ideally this
should occur during the first week of their placement. It should be noted that disabled
students may need earlier contact to ensure any necessary workplace adjustments have
been facilitated by the provider.
Students should be provided with the Student Placement Health and Safety Induction
Checklist (appendix 7) and they should complete this as they receive the relevant training
from the provider and ensure it is then returned to the Placement Organiser.
Where students will be working with specialised equipment identified by the provider during
pre-placement assessment they must be trained in its use. If students are to be prohibited
from using any dangerous equipment/substances, the provider must notify them of such both
verbally and in written form and this should be re-enforced during training sessions.
Page 14 of 51
7.3 Pre-placement Workplace Safety Training for Students
It is recommended that prior to going on placement students should undergo some form of
placement health and safety workplace training:
Placement
Risk Profile
Low
Med
Examples
Level/Type of briefing
Office based type activities, administration,
education, retail, design studios, IT or other
low hazard environments and activities.
Working in proximity to high risk factors (but
not directly with them).
General student briefing, delivered by
in-house staff/Placement Organiser
covering generic risks & controls.
General student briefing, delivered by
in-house staff/Placement Organiser
covering generic risks & controls, with
extra information on any additional
risks identified during risk profiling.
Working in the ‘field’ with equipment that
may make them more vulnerable to theft.
Security, manual work, sports, printing,
wholesale / warehousing, social work,
journalism in the ‘field’, etc.
High
EU, North America or Australasia (officebased or other).
Construction site work, forestry, agricultural,
motor vehicle repair.
Metal/wood workshops (operation of
machinery with mechanical hazards e.g.
high speed rotating parts, crushing,
entanglement risks, etc.).
Lab or other work with toxic / hazardous
materials.
Specific student briefing, delivered by
in-house staff/Placement Organiser
with additional advice/input from SHE
Section covering generic risks &
controls, with extra information on any
additional risks identified during risk
profiling.
Community / social work / journalism with
known high risk groups/clients e.g. drug
abusers, homeless, violent patients.
Work with animal
dangerous animals.
bedding,
large
or
Activities requiring specific licenses or
qualifications (e.g. diving, flying, etc.).
Rest of world (office-based, other or of
higher risk).
The SHE Section can provide general and bespoke workplace safety training to staff on
request.
Students with a disability may require additional training to take into account any workplace
adjustments made for them and/or adjustments made to the delivery of the training itself.
Please note: No instruction or training provided by the University can, or should,
substitute for the employer’s own health and safety induction / training.
7.4 Safeguarding
If a student placement activity involves teaching, health, social work or regular work with
children or vulnerable adults then the placement provider may require the student to undergo
a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check before they start work.
CRB Disclosure is part of the Government’s commitment to protect vulnerable people within
our society. Disclosure is the process by which individuals can make an application to find
out whether they have a criminal record or conviction or other record. The results of the
Disclosure checks are provided in a certificate.
Page 15 of 51
If the provider does require the student to be CRB checked please contact the Head of
Admissions for further information on CRB checks.
Placement Organisers should also confirm with providers in such circumstances that
students will be fully briefed on the providers safeguarding policies and procedures.
8. Insurance Requirements
The University holds standard Public Liability Insurance cover for students on placement.
This covers the majority of placement work activities. It should be noted that whilst the
University’s liability to students, and of students, is covered by University insurance, this is
generally on a contingency basis, the prime insurance liability will rest with the provider.
Please Note: Certain work activities may not be covered by the standard insurance policy
and additional insurance cover will need to be arranged through the University Purchasing
Office, this is particularly important for placements involving:



administering drugs, medicines, medical treatments, etc.;
work with radioactive materials;
extreme/dangerous sports.
Students on placement are also covered by the University’s overseas Personal Accident &
Travel Insurance Policy available on the Purchasing Office website at:
http://www.uclan.ac.uk/information/services/finance/purchasing/overseas_travel.php
Students must be given a copy of this policy prior to travel and they must ensure that they
are fully conversant with the requirements, restrictions and arrangements of the policy.
Please note: students are not insured under this policy to drive motor vehicles overseas.
All insurance related enquires should be directed to Financial Services.
9. Training for Placement Organisers
To demonstrate competency to health and safety regulatory bodies, Placement Organisers
must be fully conversant with the University’s Overseas Placement Management System
and have a general understanding of the relevant regulatory health and safety standards.
The SHE section can provide 1-2-1 advice or provide bespoke training to groups of staff
upon request.
10. Communication
Placement Organisers should contact the student at the end of the first week of placement to
ensure that their induction checklist has been completed and that there are no serious health
and safety shortfalls in the placement, location or accommodation, any shortfalls must be
discussed with the provider.
Sufficient contact should be maintained throughout the period of placement to ensure the
health and safety of the student and to ensure any significant changes to the students work
activity are identified and suitably assessed. Where significant changes do take place, for
instance a complete change of activity, use of undeclared dangerous equipment, etc., then a
further Student Placement Risk Profiling Form must be completed and reviewed using the
standard guidelines
Should the student raise any health and safety concerns during a visit then the visiting tutor
should discuss these with the provider during the visit. Where issues cannot be addressed
during discussions with the provider, further advice must be sought from the SHE Section.
Page 16 of 51
11. Post Placement Review
A post-placement debrief with students is crucial to allow Placement Organisers to receive
feedback on the placement, the location or accommodation and help them identify any
potential health and safety issues which may have arisen. This will in turn allow the
Organiser to assess whether action needs to be taken to re-assess the suitability of certain
placement providers for future work placements. All health and safety issues raised by
students must be recorded and acted upon.
12. Record Keeping
Record keeping is an essential element of the health and safety management of student
placements. Accurate and comprehensive records will assist the University in defending any
possible future criminal prosecution or civil claim, as well as helping to inform the reassessment process of placement providers. The following documents must be kept on file
for the duration of the placement and for three years after completion of the placement:







Completed Letter of Expectation;
Visit Assessment Checklist (if applicable);
Student’s Confidential Personal Details Form;
Student’s Overseas Travel Risk Assessment;
Student Placement Risk Profiling Form;
Students signed records for receiving health and safety training/information;
Other non-health and safety related documents as required.
13. Accident & Incident Reporting
All accidents/incidents of ANY kind while the student is at work should be reported to both
the placement provider and placement organiser. Students should complete the University’s
Accident Report Form HS3/4. Forms should be available from your School or Service office
or downloadable from the SHE Section website at:
http://www.uclan.ac.overseas/information/services/fm/safety_and_health/she_forms.php
Completed forms should be returned to the Placement Organiser who should then forward
them to their Dean / Head to action. Serious incidents must also be reported immediately to
the University SHE Section by telephone on (01772 89) 2067.
Safety, Health & Environment Section
Feb 2012
Page 17 of 51
14. References
ASET. (2010). Health & Safety for Student Placements. ASET.
http://www.asetonline.org/pubs.htm#cop
Health & Safety Executive:
http://www.hse.gov.overseas/
Health & Safety Executive. (1999). HSG 199 Managing Health and Safety on Work
Experience: A Guide for Organisers.
Learning Skills Council. The Disability Discrimination Act Part 4: A Guide for Teaching Staff
in Further Education colleges and Local Education Authority Adult Education provision.
The Department for Education & Skills (2002). Providing Work Placements for Disabled
Students: A good practice guide for further and higher education institutions
http://www.lifelonglearning.co.overseas/placements/index.htm
The Department for Education & Skills (2002). Providing Work Placements for Disabled
Students: A good practice guide for further and higher education institutions
http://www.lifelonglearning.co.overseas/placements/index.htm
UCEA. (2009). Health & Safety Guidance for the Placement of Higher Education Students.
UCEA. London. UCEA 2009
The Employers' Forum on Disability
http://www.employers-forum.co.overseas/www/index.htm
University Travel Office:
http://www.uclan.ac.uk/information/services/finance/travel/index.php
Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Site:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/
FCO LOCATE Scheme:
https://www.locate.fco.gov.uk/locateportal/
TravelHealth Advice (detailed advice on various travel related issues):
http://www.travelhealth.co.uk/advice/index.html
NHS Fit to Travel:
http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx
NHS Taking medicines overseas:
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/1074.aspx
NHS Health Care Abroad http://www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/Healthcareabroad/pages/Healthcareabroad.aspx
DirectGov - Airport and airline services for disabled travellers
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/TravelHolidaysAndBreaks/GettingThere/DG_40
17242
Page 18 of 51
15. APPENDICES
Page 19 of 51
1. Overseas Student Placement Letter of Expectation:
H&S Issues to be added to School communication with provider
The purpose of the written communication is:
To clarify expectations with regard to health and safety related issues for the student, the
placement provider and the University.
I am sure you will appreciate that during the period of placement as the students’ placement
provider the student is under your control and therefore the statutory duty of care and
consequent liabilities rest with yourself.
The University expects that you will treat the student in the same way as your employees
with regards to their health, safety and welfare, including:

Providing the student with a full and clear induction to the organisation and its
working practices, including health and safety arrangements, fire precautions and
emergency evacuation arrangements, how to report accidents, incidents and unsafe
conditions, etc.

Providing ongoing supervision for the student in the pursuance of their duties;

Providing appropriate instruction and training in working practices and in particular to
control measures identified in the assessment of work related risk and associated
safety precautions;

Complying with your countries health and safety legislation;

Provide training on your procedures and undertake relevant checks if the placement
activities involve working with children or vulnerable adults;

The University assumes that you will have suitable workplace insurance in place and
that this will apply to a placement student as they would to any other member of your
staff. If this is not the case, or if this creates any questions or problems, please let us
know at the earliest possible opportunity;

‘Reasonable adjustments’ will be facilitated for disabled placement students;

You will advise the University immediately of any injury or damage involving the
student;
During the period of placement with you, we expect our student to prove to be an effective,
safe and reliable employee. We ask however that you make contact with your University
Placement contact at the earliest opportunity if you have any concerns regarding the
suitability of the student to undertake this placement.
We expect the student to:

Abide by all rules regarding health and safety requirements, and other practices and
procedures of the placement organisation;

Carry out the work programme specified by the placement provider under the
supervision of the specified supervisor(s);

Inform the placement provider of any health concerns or disability that may require
reasonable adjustments to be made;
Page 20 of 51

Consult with the University prior to seeking any changes in the terms and duration of
the placement;

Report to the University any incidents in which they are involved and any health and
safety concerns that are not addressed by their placement provider;

To notify the employer/University of any change in personal circumstance that may
be relevant to the placement e.g. contact details, disability, prescribed medication,
criminal conviction, etc.
I confirm I have the necessary arrangements in place and accept the responsibilities as set
out above
Signed:
Position:
Name in Block Capitals:
Date:
Thank you for completing the Letter of Expectation
Please could you return it as soon as possible to:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE
Page 21 of 51
2. Student Placements: Confidential Personal Details Form
University policy requires this form is to be completed by all students prior to the commencement of a
placement and must be returned to your University Placement Organiser as soon as possible.
Placement Provider
Company:
Start Date:
End Date:
Location:
Expected Work Activities:
Surname:
First Name:
Date of Birth:
Your Gender (please circle)
Male
Female
Term Time Address:
Post Code:
Tel No:
Are you currently receiving medical treatment?
Yes / No
Do you suffer/or had any form of asthma; diabetes; epilepsy; heart disease; nervous or
mental illness; rheumatic fever; stroke; tuberculosis?
Have you ever had any other form of serious illness or operation?
Yes / No
Are you visually impaired/blind?
Yes / No
Are you hard of hearing/deaf?
Yes / No
Yes / No
If the answer to any of the questions is “yes”, please give further details information as to the nature of
your circumstances. Please include dates:
Have you had any sickness during the last two years that may affect your or others health
and safety whilst on placement?
Yes / No
If yes, please state nature of illness:
Name, address and contact details of your doctor:
Disability - ‘a physical or mental impairment, which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a
person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day duties’.
Do you consider yourself to have a disability as defined in the Single Equality Act 2010
Yes / No
If yes, please state the nature of your disability
.........................................................................................................…………………………………………
………….…………………………………………………………………….………………………………………
…………….…………………………………………………………………………………………………
To protect your health and safety it is imperative that you notify us of any disability or condition that
may impact upon health and safety during work placement. If you fail to disclose this it may place you
at a disadvantage and impact upon your own health and safety. For further information please contact
the University’s Disability Advisory Service Email: disability@uclan.ac.overseas
Page 22 of 51
Criminal Convictions
To help the University reduce the risk of harm or injury to others from the criminal behavior of our
students, we must know about any relevant criminal convictions that you may have.
Relevant criminal convictions are only those convictions for offences against the person, whether of a
violent or sexual nature, and convictions for offences involving unlawfully supplying controlled drugs or
substances where the conviction concerns commercial drug dealing or trafficking. Convictions that are
spent (as defined by the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974) are not considered to be relevant and you
should not reveal them unless your placement activities involve teaching, health, social work or working
with children or vulnerable adults.
Have you ever been convicted of any relevant criminal offence?
Please give details of next of kin or person who can be contacted in an emergency:
Name:
Yes / No
Relationship to you:
Address:
Post Code:
Tel No/s:
Signed:
Date:
This form will be used/kept in confidential manner, information will only be used to ensure
your health and safety on overseas placement
Thank you for your cooperation
This form will be kept in a Confidential and Safe manner
Page 23 of 51
3. Risk Profiling and Specific Actions Matrix
Factor
Work Factors
Rating
Profile
High
Risk Indicators
Examples of Specific Actions Necessary
Work with hazards that have potential to cause permanent
injury or fatality, including:
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);

Construction site work, forestry, agricultural, motor vehicle
repair;

Metal/wood workshops (operation of machinery with
mechanical hazards e.g. high speed rotating parts,
crushing, entanglement risks, etc.);

Lab or other work with toxic / hazardous materials.
Community / social work / journalism with known high risk
groups/clients e.g. drug abusers, homeless, violent patients.
Exposure to animal bedding, grooming, etc, working in close
proximity to large or dangerous animals.
Medium
Activities requiring specific licenses or qualifications (e.g.
diving, flying, etc.).
Working in proximity to high risk factors (but not directly with
them).
Working in the ‘field’ with equipment that may make them more
vulnerable to theft.
Security, manual work, sports, printing, wholesale /
warehousing, social work, journalism in the ‘field’, etc.
Low
Location /
Region
Factors
High
Office based type activities, administration, education, retail,
design studios, IT or other low hazard environments and
activities.
Seek confirmation from Provider about expectations of students competency in
high risk activities, and ensure student meets these;
Confirm that training and supervision will be provided by the Provider
throughout the placement;
Include details in the written communication with the Provider;
Pre-placement visit maybe required;
Provision of specific workplace H&S information to students;
Specific H&S briefing session;
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Seek confirmation from Provider that the student will not be expected to
participate in high risk activities, and will be appropriately supervised in
medium risk activities;
Specific risk assessment may be required dependent on response;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Significant risk of civil disorder, crime or similar danger (e.g.
placements in war zones, countries/regions where the FCO
advise against travel..
Placement must not commence if the FCO advise against “all” or “all but
essential” travel to that country or the specific region where the
placement is located.
Unavoidable lone / remote working in an area of significant
risk.
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Medical & rescue services not readily available.
Further research and advice required;
Means of communications likely to be difficult or compromised.
Specific risk assessment required;
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Pre-placement visit maybe required.
Page 24 of 51
Specific H&S briefing session
Medium
Higher than normal risk of civil disorder, crime or similar
danger.
Delays likely in communicating with tutors / others.
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Further research and advice required;
Supplement general briefing with information about medium factors;
Specific risk assessment may be required;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Low
Placements with no significant local risks.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Individual
Student
Factors
High
The student has relevant personal factors e.g. pre-existing
medical condition, disability, linguistic or cultural, which may
increase the risk of accident or illness during placement related
activities even following reasonable adjustments.
The student has personal factors which may require specific
adjustments or support if living away from home, or makes
them susceptible to episodes of illness.
The student’s knowledge, understanding, and skills are low for
the type of work involved.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Discuss activities with the student to try eliminate or reduce potential risk
where possible;
Engage with occupational health provider / Disability Services to develop
reasonable adjustments;
Confirm these in written communication with the Provider;
Pre-placement visit maybe required;
Provision of specific workplace H&S information to students.
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Page 25 of 51
Medium
The student has relevant person factors which may require
specific adjustments or support during placement, or in social
interactions at work.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Engage with occupational health provider / other support professionals to
develop reasonable adjustments;
Confirm these in written communication with the Provider;
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Low
Insurance
Factors
High
The student has no personal factors likely to cause episodes of
illness or require specific adjustment whilst on placement.
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
The student has relevant knowledge, understanding, and skills
are low for the type of work involved.
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Locations, activities and/or circumstances are excluded from
UCLan’s insurance cover.
Placement must not commence if the FCO advise against “all” or “all but
essential” travel to that country or the specific region where the
placement is located.
Provider’s insurance will not cover the student on placement
with them.
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Alternative placement required;
Consult University’s Purchasing Office;
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Students must be given a copy of this policy prior to travel and they must
ensure that they are fully conversant with the requirements, restrictions and
arrangements of the policy.
Medium
Locations, activities and/or circumstances require confirmation
of cover from University’s insurers.
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Consult University’s insurance section;
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Low
Placement Provider has Employers and if required Public
Liability Insurance cover.
Students must be given a copy of this policy prior to travel and they must
ensure that they are fully conversant with the requirements, restrictions and
arrangements of the policy.
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Students must be given a copy of this policy prior to travel and they must
ensure that they are fully conversant with the requirements, restrictions and
arrangements of the policy.
Safeguarding
High
Significant regular contact/activities with children and/or
Page 26 of 51
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned)
Factors
vulnerable adults.
Liaison with Provider on requirements for the student to be CRB checked;
Sport coaching, social work, volunteering, dance, etc.
Confirm these in the written communication with the Provider and level of
safeguarding induction student will receive;
Pre-placement visit maybe required;
Specific H&S briefing session;
Provision of specific workplace H&S information to students;
Medium
Infrequent contact/activities with children and/or vulnerable
adults not in ‘regulated’ or ‘controlled’ settings.
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Liaison with Provider on requirements for the student to be CRB checked;
Specific risk assessment may be required.
Low
No placement activities with children or vulnerable adults.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned)
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
General /
Environmental
Health Factors
High
Placements where mandatory / specific health protection
measures required (e.g. inoculations, respiratory equipment,
etc.).
Very hot or strenuous working conditions (e.g. manual working
outdoors in sun).
Very cold working conditions (e.g. cold storage/cook chill or
freeze facility).
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Liaison with Provider on requirements;
Confirm these in the written communication with the Provider;
Specific risk assessment required;
Specific H&S briefing session;
Provision of specific workplace H&S information to students.
Medium
Some precautionary
inoculations, etc.).
measures
required
(e.g.
optional
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Liaison with Provider on requirements;
Confirm these in the written communication with the Provider;
Specific risk assessment may be required;
Low
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
No significant environmental health risks.
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Page 27 of 51
Transportation
/ Travel
Factors
High
Significant travel to reach placement, local transportation
known to be of high risk.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Demanding travel during placement.
Placement student to research travel arrangements;
Student required to drive others or in unfamiliar vehicles.
Discuss implications of high risk factors with students;
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Check Providers insurance;
Specific risk assessment required;
Provision of specific workplace H&S information to students;
Medium
Low
Travel at night.
Placement must not commence if remaining risk is still high.
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
Long daily commute.
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
Student required to drive a familiar vehicle in reasonable
conditions.
Specific risk assessment may be required;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students;
No significant travel, comfortable daily commute.
Placement Agreement (signed and returned).
Letter of Expectation (signed and returned);
No driving associated with placement.
Student Travel Risk Assessment completed;
No special measures required, generic placement risk assessment;
Provision of generic workplace H&S information to students.
Page 28 of 51
APPENDIX 4.
STUDENT OVERSEAS TRAVEL / PLACEMENT RISK ASSESSMENT FORM
TEMPLATE ONLY – PLEASE EDIT FOR EACH SPECIFIC TRIP
Risk Assessment For
Assessment Undertaken By
Assessment Reviewed
School / Service: (insert the module name and tutor’s
name)
Name: Person undertaking risk assessment
Name:
Location of Activity:
[insert location, country]
Date: Date you complete risk assessment
Date:
Activity: Your name - overseas student placement
(describe fully the placement activities to be undertaken
date of travel, etc.).
Signed by Dean of School / Head of Service or
their nominee:
REF:
Date:
Leave blank
Note: Not all of the hazards or controls listed below will be relevant to intended travel - delete as appropriate
List significant hazards
here:
Personal
‘fitness’
to
travel – disabilities, preexisting
medical
conditions,
country
specific diseases, etc
(e.g. Malaria, Typhoid,
Hepatitis A, Diphtheria,
Yellow Fever).
Detail
any
relevant
disabilities or pre-existing
medical conditions that
may require additional
controls to be put in place:
List groups of
people at
risk:
Your name
List existing controls, or refer to safety procedures etc.
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
No travel permitted to any country or a particularly area within a
country against the advice of the FCO e.g. where they advise
against ‘all’ or ‘all but essential travel’.
Traveller advised to see their GP and seek medical advice on their
fitness to travel and vaccinations required for travel to (Country).
Traveller advised to have a dental check-up before travel;
Regular travellers overseas to have medical examinations;
Traveller must have had necessary vaccinations and purchased
anti-malarial drugs prior to travel (if necessary);
No member of staff or student is permitted to travel on University
business against advice of their GP.
Travel advice from FCO
Travel health advice from NHS Fitfortravel
Page 29 of 51
For risks, which are not
adequately controlled, list
actions needed.
Consult FCO: Your Trip Advice
Consult
Travellers
FCO:
Disabled
Remaining level of
risk: high, med or
low
Insert level of risk for
each
hazard
identified.
after
controls have been
implemented
Traveller to declare any relevant pre-existing medical condition or
disability that could be potentially worsened by the proposed
overseas travel/activity;
Travellers should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
before leaving the UK (only relevant for European placements).
Air travel to (Country)
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Traveller advised to follow all DVT / dehydration precautions
advised by aircraft cabin crew.
Long haul flight - DVT /
Dehydration
Procedural Guidance on Travel Related Deep Vein Thrombosis
(DVT).
Accommodation
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Local security arrangements.
Fire, personal security
Travellers advised to read the evacuation procedures in the
accommodation and ensure they are familiar with the appropriate
escape route from their rooms and how to raise the alarm should
you see smoke or fire.
Remember to lock your door at night and when you go out during
the day, as you would at home.
Obtain suitable electrical adapter for the local voltage/plug type.
General safety issues at
locations being visited
including placement
provider
Fire, personal security
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
UCLan H&S Procedure for Management of Student Placements
(pre-placement assessment of providers H&S management
arrangements);
Students covered by University Public Liability Insurance;
UCLAN accident emergency insurance and procedure;
Students advised that if they have any H&S concerns whilst on
placement they speak to their provider and their placement tutor
immediately.
Students to notify their UCLAN placement organizer of any
substantial change to their placement activity;
Premise / site / activity safety procedures / instructions to be
followed at all times;
Any safety equipment provided by staff at premise must be used as
directed
Page 30 of 51
Any
activities
that
are
undertaken as an addition to
those outlined before the trip
begun, must be assessed prior
to them starting.
Attendees to familiarise themselves with the location of fire escape
routes;
Weather
Possible extremes of hot
cold or wet.
Your name
University & premise Accident Reporting Procedures;
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Research expected weather conditions prior to travel.
For hot climates:
Drink lots of water at regular intervals throughout the day (3 litres
per day).
Hot – heatstroke, sunburn
Cold – hypothermia.
Take re-hydration sachets to replace lost salts.
Wear a hat with a brim wide enough to shade your face.
Wear loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics such as linen
or cotton. Light colours are reflective and therefore cooler than dark
colours.
Pack a variety of clothing in case of sudden weather changes.
Protect yourself from sun and insects. Wear long-sleeved shirt and
long skirt or trousers.
High alcohol consumption to be avoided.
Exposure to extreme midday heat will be minimised.
First aid kits.
For cold climates:
Always wear warm, windproof and waterproof clothing including
that that covers the ears.
Dress in loose-fitting multiple layers to trap air and create an
insulating effect. Add or take off a layer as needed.
Protect extremities (such as fingers, toes, nose, and ear lobes).
Wear warm socks and robust, waterproof shoes/boots.
Avoid prolonged exposure and shelter from high winds.
Always take a change of dry clothing.
Avoid drinking alcohol when it is very cold.
Transportation
Potential
breakdown
/
accident, vehicle
stationary for significant
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Use hotel or other recommended taxi companies. Always pre-book
taxis.
Water and food will be carried on all lengthy trips in case of such
Page 31 of 51
Students advised that they are
not
covered
by
UCLAN
insurance to drive hired vehicles
whilst overseas they must take
out full insurance when they
periods of time in areas
without food or water.
scenarios.
arrange the car hire.
Any train safety information provided to be followed at all times.
Ensure train sleeping compartment doors are locked when
occupied.
FCO - Driving abroad safety
advice.
Hired vehicles - Assess vehicle suitability for basic safety features
e.g. working brakes – many hire vehicles do not meet the standards
of the UK.
Roads may be in a poor state of repair, use recommended local
guides/drivers where appropriate.
Manual
(luggage)
handling
Injuries
arising
from
incorrect lifting techniques
Medical emergency
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Information provision;
Maintain good posture when lifting or lowering equipment, avoid
twisting or bending to reduce the chance of back injury
Your name
Manual
handling
training
available through SHE Section.
Ensure University medical and emergency insurance policy details
are up to date at easily accessible.
Check availability of prescribed medication.
Food Poisoning
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Only drink water from bottled sources and avoid food prepared by
unlicensed vendors at all times.
Carry Imodium or similar medication and rehydration sachets.
Terrorism,
personal
security / safety
Specific terrorism/security
information from FCO to
be included here
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Procedural Guidance for H&S During Overseas Travel
Check FCO website prior to travel to ensure there are no
restrictions - no member of staff/student permitted to travel to a
country against advice from FCO.
Out of Hours: Security (24-hour security lodge) holds a cascade
list of senior staff within the University: (+44) 01772 892068.
Personal attack alarms available from Security;
Ensure mobile phones will operate within the country being visited;
Traveller to register with FCO LOCATE scheme
Travellers should remain vigilant in all public places and take
sensible precautions for personal safety and avoid public
gatherings and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn
Page 32 of 51
Travellers strongly advised to
research the county / specific
area which they are visiting e.g.
personal safety, areas to avoid,
local customs, legislation, etc.
FCO: Your Trip Advice
Any
activities
that
are
undertaken as an addition to
those outlined before the trip
begun must be risk assessed
prior to commencement.
FCO: Victims of Crime Abroad
violent.
FCO: World Wise
Only take with you the cash you will need for the day and leave
valuables in a hotel safe / safety deposit box.
Accident Reporting Procedures;
Working in an isolated
area
Difficulty
help
in
Your name
Lone working should be avoided in remote or areas where
summoning help is difficult.
summoning
Document Control
Mobile phones to contact emergency services.
Your name
Loss of passports, visas,
insurance details, etc
Specific risks related to
the placement
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
Details of the site and schedule will be left at the accommodation.
Lone Worker Guidance for all Employees.
Travellers advised to take photocopies of all important travel
documents keeping them separate from originals;
Assistance
Consulate.
from
relevant
UCLan accident emergency insurance and procedure.
Your name
Specific safety advice from FCO to be included where relevant
You must now identify existing control measures already in place to
ensure the hazards you have identified do not harm anyone
You must now identify any
additional
significant
hazards related to your
placement which are not
covered above.
You must now identify any
additional control measures
required to ensure the hazards
you have identified do not harm
anyone
Finally decided what
level of risk these
hazards now pose
UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office Country Specific Safety Advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad
Insert here contact details of the Embassy in the country you are visiting
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office LOCATE Scheme
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office's Online Registration module supports the registration of citizens living or visiting abroad. It allows individuals to register and manage
their own travel details via the Internet both prior to and during a period abroad. This information can be used by FCO to alert citizens to relevant travel concerns as well as
contact citizens in the event of an emergency.
For reference purposes take a copy of the completed risk assessment with you when you travel
Page 33 of 51
Appendix 5.
Overseas Student Placement Risk Profiling Form
Placement Provider
Company:
Student/s
Start Date
End Date
Location:
Expected Work Activities:
Accommodation Arrangements:
General Control Measures
Yes / No
Actions Necessary?
Action
Completed
Has the student received sufficient briefing?
Yes / No
Has the student completed a travel risk
assessment?
Are there any travel restrictions to the
country or region where placement is
located?
Has the placement provider returned a
signed letter of expectation?
Has provider been used before and
reviewed?
Yes / No
If yes, do any concerns remain unresolved?
Risk Profiling & Further Actions Required
Yes / No
Risk Profile
High, Med,
Low
Actions Necessary?
Action
Completed
Action
Necessary?
Yes / No
Action Completed
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Work Factors - Risks associated with
student’s expected work activities.
Location and/or Region - Crime, civil
disorder, remote working,country/region
specific, etc.
Individual Student Factors - Skills, abilities,
pre-existing medical conditions, disability,
etc.
Insurance limitations - Provider has
adequate insurance in place to cover student
on placement,UCLan Policy restrictions, etc.
Safeguarding - Work with children or
vulnerable adults.
General / Environmental Health Factors Very hot or cold working conditions,
inoculations required, etc
Travel & Transportation – Overseas travel,
commuting to/from work & driving for work
purposes.
Conclusion
Is a site visit required before placement is
approved?
Are risks acceptable such that the placement
can be approved?
Yes / No
Placement Approved By:
Job Title:
Signed:
Dated:
Page 34 of 51
Worked Example 1: Student Placement Risk Profiling Form
Placement Provider
Company: Ace Fashion Design
Student/s
Mary Smith
Start Date
10//10/2011
End Date
20/07/2011
Location: 5th Ave New York USA
Expected Work Activities: Fashion promotion activities, visiting clients in NYC, computer work, etc.
Accommodation Arrangements: Flat share in New York commuting by subway daily.
General Control Measures
Yes / No
Actions Necessary?
Has the student received sufficient briefing?
Yes
Has the student completed a travel risk
assessment?
Has the placement provider returned a
signed letter of expectation?
Has provider been used before and
reviewed?
Yes
Attended briefing & given
overseas work guide
Singed off by DoS
08/09/2011
Received 04/09/2011
If yes, do any concerns remain unresolved?
Risk Profiling & Further Actions Required
N/A
Yes
Yes
Work Factors
Location and/or Region
Risk Profile
High, Med,
Low
Low - Med
Low-Med
Individual Student Factors
Insurance limitations.
Safeguarding
General / Environmental Health Factors -
Low
Low
N/A
Low
Travel & Transportation
Low-Med
Conclusion
Is a site visit required before placement is
approved?
Are risks acceptable such that the placement
can be approved?
Action
Necessary?
Yes
Excellent provider no H&S
issues raised by returning
students.
Actions Necessary?
Action
Completed
Confirmation required on
work travel arrangements
Issues addressed in travel
RA
Yes – client
visits by taxi
Yes
Issues addressed in travel
risk assessment
Mary commuting to work
via subway – safety
issues addressed in RA
Action Completed
Yes
Placement Approved By: Sam Cooke
Signed:
Action
Completed
Job Title: Placement Organiser
Sam Cooke
Dated: 12/09/2011
Page 35 of 51
Worked Example 2: Student Placement Risk Profiling Form
Placement Provider
Company: Dedeman
Damascus 5* Hotel
Student/s
Paul Hill
Start Date
19/11/2011
End Date
30/04/2011
Location: Damascus, Syria
Expected Work Activities: Hotel reception work, taking bookings, providing nighttime cover, etc.
Accommodation Arrangements: Provided on site by Dedeman Hotel
General Control Measures
Yes / No
Has the student received sufficient briefing?
No
Has the student completed a travel risk
assessment?
Yes
Has the placement provider returned a
signed letter of expectation?
Has provider been used before and
reviewed?
Yes
If yes, do any concerns remain unresolved?
Yes
Risk Profiling & Further Actions Required
Risk Profile
High, Med,
Low
Low-Med
High
Action
Completed
RA not suitable or
sufficient does not
reflect FCO advice
No
Yes
Work Factors
Location and/or Region – UK FCO advise
against all travel to Syria (08/09/2011)
Individual Student Factors
Insurance limitations – No insurance in
place due to FCO travel restrictions
Safeguarding
General / Environmental Health Factors Travel & Transportation
Conclusion
Low
High
Is a site visit required before placement is
approved?
Are risks acceptable such that the placement
can be approved?
Low
Low
High
Action
Necessary?
No
No
Placement Approved By: Sam Cooke
Signed:
Actions Necessary?
Unrelated to provider
see below
Actions Necessary?
Action
Completed
Student & provider
informed of FCO Advice
Yes
Student & provider
informed of FCO Advice
Yes
Action Completed
Student & provider
informed that
placement cannot
commence due to FCO
safety advice.
Job Title: Placement Organiser
Sam Cooke
Dated: 19/08/2011
Page 36 of 51
Appendix 6.
Onsite Work Placement
Health & Safety Assessment Checklist
Name of Employer:
Address:
Contact Name:
Health & Safety Issues
Y N
1 a. Has the student received suitable induction training  
as outlined in the Placement Induction Checklist?
b. Has the student been given adequate information and
instruction in the control measures to be applied  
during work activities?
c.
Has training been given in any specialised equipment
 
or machinery the student is expected to use?
d. Has the student received both verbal and written
notification of any dangerous equipment/machinery  
they are prohibited to use?
e. Does the student feel they receive adequate
 
supervision?
f.
Are there any health and safety related issues that
the student/volunteer feels they have not received  
adequate information, instruction or training on?
2 a. Do fire escape routes/exits from workplace areas  
appear clear of obstruction ?
 
b. Are fire exit routes identified by suitable signs?
c.
Are fire evacuation procedures posted at suitable  
places?
d. Does adequate fire fighting equipment appear to be  
in place?
3 a. Are working areas and aisles clear of obvious  
obstructions and slip/trip hazards such as: trailing
cables, boxes, waste, insecure carpet/floor tiles etc?
b. Are adequate welfare facilities provided within  
reasonable proximity to the office?
 
c. Is drinking water provided/available?
d. Is general temperatures/humidity/ventilation in the  
workplace satisfactory?
 
4 a. Does the student have access to a first aider?
5 a. Has the student been given adequate information
regarding the risk assessments associated with their
work activities?
Page 37 of 51
 
Comments / Actions
6 a. Does the student have any particular health and  
safety concerns regarding their period of placement
whilst at work?
b. Does the student/volunteer have any particular health  
and safety concerns regarding out of work periods?
7 a. If the student has a disability has reasonable  
adjustments been facilitated by the provider?
PASS

FAIL

FURTHER INFORMATION REQUIRED
Assessed by (Block Capitals):………………………………………….…
Date:………………………………
Signed:……………………………………….
Position:………………………………
School / Service:………………………………………………………………………………
General Comments:
Page 38 of 51

Appendix 7.
Overseas Student Placement Induction Checklist
(For Completion by Students)
Placement Provider
Company:
Student/s Name
Start Date
End Date
Location:
Work Activities:
Who is your nominated contact for Health &
Safety issues?
Telephone/Text:
Email:
As a minimum, the topics listed below should be included within your induction into the placement
organisation preferably on your first day. Please check off the subjects as they are covered and
inform your University contact / placement Organiser if any subject are not been covered within your
first week.
Health & Safety Issues
No
Yes
Introduction to key staff members and their roles explained
Location of welfare facilities (e.g. toilets, kitchen, rest room, showers, etc.)
Emergency procedures
Copy of safety policy received or location known
Location of first aid facilities and contact for first aiders
Fire procedures and location of fire-fighting equipment
Accident/incident reporting and location of accident book
Use/control measures for hazardous substances in the workplace (e.g.
COSHH) – if applicable
Display Screen Equipment Regulations and associated procedures – if
applicable
Manual handling procedures – if applicable
Protective clothing/equipment arrangements – if applicable
Instruction on equipment you will be using (list equipment)
Specific training for tasks to be undertaken
Specific information relating to risk assessments covering tasks to be
undertaken
Location of health and safety information and advice
Specific disability related induction issues
Other issues covered/to be covered please state:
































Signed:
.....................................................................
Date:
Date
.............................
Print Name:………………………………………..
Comments:
Please could you return it as soon as possible to:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE
Page 39 of 51
Appendix 8.
Health & Safety Information for Students on
Overseas Placement
The following information is to help ensure you have a safe and healthy placement experience whilst
overseas. This document forms part of the University’s placement procedures and helps the University
fulfill its duty of care towards you. As such you are expected to read and take note of its contents and it is
strongly advised that you take a copy with you whilst you are overseas.
Much of this guidance and advice has been taken from the British Consulate’s document Support for British
Nationals abroad: A Guide (please note if you are not a British National you must contact your own
Embassy, High Commission or Consulate for information on whether they undertake similar services whilst
overseas) aand the Department of Health’s Health Advice for Travelers. The following information is by no
means exhaustive and you should always ensure you have undertaken your own research into the health
and safety implications of the country you are traveling to.
You must ensure you are aware of the immigration and customs controls of the country you are
travelling to, including any necessary visas. You should note that for many countries your passport needs
to be valid for at least six months after the date you travel.
Insurance, the University has a standard insurance policy in place for your overseas travel which provides
for personal accident, 24 hour medical cover, medical, travel and cancellation expenses, emergency
evacuation expenses, personal property, money and personal liability.
Always make sure you have a current copy of the policy when you travel, as this has emergency contact
details that may be essential to you. Your UCLan tutor / placement coordinator can provide you with a
copy.
If you are on overseas placement for more than 12 months you will be required to complete a Travel
Insurance Questionnaire which your UCLan tutor / placement coordinator can provide.
Please Note: University insurance only covers your direct period of placement. Any additional time spent
within that country (e.g. staying on for a holiday, extra work beyond that required for your placement, etc,
will not be covered). Action sports and the hiring of motor vehicles whilst overseas are not covered.
Students are strongly advised to take out addition personal insurance cover particularly to cover expensive
items such as lap-tops, cameras, video equipment etc.
Mobile phones should be checked with the network provider for compatible operation before departure
and ‘roaming’ enabled if available. Program in useful numbers such as the University’s medical emergency
contact, local police, the local Embassy, High Commission or Consulate phone number (details on the FOC
travel website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel) and a trustworthy taxi company.
If your money, passport or anything else is stolen abroad, report it to the local police immediately
and get a statement about the loss (you will need one to claim against your insurance). You will need to
cancel any credit cards or traveller’s cheques. You may also want to have money transferred to you
either by your bank or by a relative using a reliable money transfer company. Your Consulate can give you
information about this if required.
Passports are valuable documents, and you are responsible for taking all reasonable steps to protect your
passport. If your passport is lost or stolen abroad and you urgently need to travel, your Consulate can
issue a replacement once they are satisfied of your identity. You will need to produce a police report, fill in
an application form and pay a fee. The Consulate needs to make checks, which may take time and could
mean you have to delay your travel arrangements. Consider whether you also need an exit visa from the
local immigration authorities as some countries do not issue these visas outside normal office hours or at
weekends.
Emergency financial help. If you run out of money abroad, your Consulate can give you information on
how to transfer money and they can help you to contact relatives and friends who may be willing to transfer
money to you or to buy you a ticket back to the UK. In an emergency a Consulate can cash a cheque
worth up to £100, secured against a valid banker’s card, into local currency. However, you have no
automatic right to receive emergency financial help from a Consulate. In certain very exceptional
40
circumstances, and when everything else has been tried, your Consulate may provide a loan from public
funds to help you return home.
Check that what you are bringing back to the UK is legal. Be aware that buying wildlife products is
risky, customs confiscate illegal souvenirs, and you could face criminal prosecution and fines. You can get
more information on bringing back meat, animal products or plants from the Department for the
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs at www.defra.gov.uk.
If you are arrested or held in custody or prison in a country overseas, the authorities in that country
should ask you whether you want them to contact your Embassy, High Commission or Consulate.
However, you can also ask for this to be done, and should do so particularly if you are charged with a
serious offence. Although the Consulate cannot give legal advice, start legal proceedings or investigate a
crime, they can offer basic information about the local legal system, including whether a legal-aid scheme is
available.
What your Consulate can do:










help appropriate to the individual circumstances of each case, including:
issuing replacement passports;
providing information about transferring funds;
providing appropriate help if you have suffered rape, serious assault, the victim of other crime, or
are in hospital;
helping people with mental illness;
providing details of local lawyers, interpreters, doctors and funeral directors;
contacting you within 24 hours of being told that you have been detained;
offering support and help in a range of other cases, such as child abductions, death of relatives
overseas, missing people and kidnapping;
contacting family or friends for you if you want;
making special arrangements in cases of terrorism, civil disturbances or natural disasters.
What the Consulate cannot do:






get you out of prison, prevent the local authorities from deporting you after your prison sentence, or
interfere in criminal or civil court proceedings;
help you enter a country, for example, if you do not have a visa or your passport is not valid, as they
cannot interfere in another country’s immigration policy or procedures;
give you legal advice, investigate crimes or carry out searches for missing people, they can give you
details of people who may be able to help you in these cases, such as English-speaking lawyers;
get you better treatment in hospital or prison than is given to local people;
pay any bills or give you money (except in very exceptional circumstances);
make travel arrangements, find work, accommodation or make business arrangements for you.
Protecting Your Health Overseas - Have a medical and dental check-up before traveling and keep a
written record on your person of any medical condition affecting you and the proper names (not just the
trade names) of any medication you are taking. Make sure that all your vaccinations are up to date and find
out about any other suggested medical advice by visiting your doctor. Follow this advice and be aware of
possible health risks during your trip. You should be aware that certain vaccinations are mandatory for
entry into some countries so keep a record of all mandatory vaccinations when traveling.
Taking Medicines out of the UK - If you want to take any sort of medicine with you, either prescribed or
bought from a pharmacist, find out if there are any restrictions on taking it in and out of the UK or the
country you are visiting. Some medicines available over the counter in the UK may be controlled in other
countries. The relevant Embassy or High Commission or the Home Office Drugs Branch (Tel: 020 7273
3806) will be able to advise. Always ensure you carry medicines in correctly labeled containers issued by
the pharmacist, take a letter from your doctor or a personal health record card giving details of the drug
prescribed in case you need it to get you through Customs. If in doubt, declare them at Customs when you
return.
Reducing the Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) During Travel - Prolonged immobility on long
journeys, whether by plane, train or car, can lead to 'Deep Vein Thrombosis' (DVT) - a blood clot in the leg.
You may be at increased risk if you have ever had a DVT, clots in your lungs, a family history of clotting,
had major surgery especially a hip or knee replacement in the last 3 months, suffer from heart disease,
cancer, ever had a stroke, or are a heavy smoker.
41
All major airlines now give advice on exercises you can do to help reduce the risk of DVT, such as moving
your feet around, walking around regularly, avoiding dehydration by taking regular non-alcoholic drinks, etc,
you should follow such advice whenever possible.
Personal Hygiene – may seem obvious to most, but poor personal hygiene is a major cause of ill health
for overseas travelers.







Always wash your hands after going to the lavatory, before handling food and before eating;
If you have any doubts about the water available for drinking, washing food or cleaning teeth, boil,
sterilise it with disinfectant tablets or use bottled water and in sealed containers;
Avoid ice unless you are sure it is made from treated and chlorinated water. This includes ice used
to keep food cool as well as ice in drinks;
Avoid or boil unpasteurised milk;
It is usually safe to drink hot tea or coffee, wine, beer, carbonated water and soft drinks, and
packaged or bottled fruit juices;
Eat freshly cooked food which is thoroughly cooked and still piping hot; fish and shellfish can be
suspect in some countries, uncooked shellfish, such as oysters, are a particular hazard.
Avoid food which has been kept “warm”, uncooked food, unless you can peel or shell it yourself,
food likely to have been exposed to flies and ice cream from unreliable sources, such as kiosks or
itinerant traders.
Climatic conditions - Always ensure you check on the likely climatic conditions of the country and the
specific area for which you are travelling. In hot climates you may be at risk from heat exhaustion,
dehydration, heat stroke and sun burn and cold can result in hypothermia.
Heat Exhaustion: can be caused by dehydration and salt deficiency, it is characterised by fatigue,
lethargy, headaches, giddiness and muscle cramps. To help avoid it take time to acclimatise to high
temperatures, ensure you take sufficient liquids, wear loose clothing and a hat, avoid physically demanding
work where possible, salt tablets or extra salt in food may help.
Heat Stroke: can be caused by long continuous periods of exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms can
include feeling unwell, reduced/no sweating and a high body temperature. Where sweating has ceased the
skin becomes flushed and red. Severe, throbbing headaches and lack of co-ordination will also occur, and
the sufferer may be confused or aggressive. Eventually the victim will become delirious or convulse.
Hospitalisation is essential, sufferers must be removed from the sun, where possible remove their clothing
cover them with a wet sheet or towel and then fan continually.
Dehydration: can be caused by diarrhoea, dysentery and general insufficient fluid intake and may not
necessarily just occur in hot conditions. In the event of dehydration, liquid mixed with salt and sugar should
be taken (1 level teaspoon salt / 8 teaspoons of sugar in 1 litre of liquid). For severe dehydration, this
should be taken every 5 minutes until the sufferer begins to urinate normally. If dehydration gets worse, or
if the sufferer does not urinate within 6 hours, a doctor should be contacted.
Hypothermia: can occur accidentally simply by sitting still in the cold too long, falling into water or through
exhaustion, for instance while hill walking, due to the high heat loss from cold, damp, wind and/or low heat
production resulting from exhaustion and/or hunger. Any two of the following symptoms suggest
hypothermia; feeling cold, tired or listless; unreasonable behaviour or irritability; sudden uncontrollable
shivering; increased slowness of physical or mental response; stumbling or falling; slurring of speech;
difficulty of vision; physical resistance to help; collapse, stupor or unconsciousness.
In the advent of hypothermia, where possible, remove the sufferer from the exposed environment and
provide shelter and rest. Try to insulate the sufferer against further heat loss by use of blankets or layers of
warm clothing, huddling together in a survival bag, etc. Provide glucose (instant energy) if available and
water, preferably warm (to combat dehydration) and seek medical help.
Alcohol - be aware of local attitudes to alcohol and know your own limit - remember that drinks
served overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Keep your drinks with you at all times as they can
be spiked with drugs to make you more vulnerable to assault. Be aware that accidents are more likely to
happen after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Avoid swimming after consuming alcohol or fooling around on
balconies or other high places. If you have an accident or injure yourself while under the influence of drugs
or alcohol, your insurance policy may not cover you.
Be aware of what may happen if you become involved with drugs overseas. Not only are there health risks,
but there may also be severe penalties for any association with drugs. Never carry packages through
42
customs for other people and be cautious about accepting gifts. If you are driving, do not lend your vehicle
to other people and do not sit in someone else’s vehicle when going through customs or crossing borders get out and walk. Pack your own baggage, fasten it securely and do not leave it unattended.
Major Diseases and the Precautions to Take
Malaria is a parasitic disease, spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes. Malaria is a major health
problem throughout the tropics, producing fever and, in some cases, complications affecting the kidneys,
liver, brain and blood, and it can be fatal. If you are going to visit, travel through, or even just stop-over, in
a malarial country, even if you have lived there before, take the following precautions:
1. Tell your doctor which countries you will be visiting, many have malaria parasites which are resistant to
anti-malaria medicines, professional sources of information may need to be consulted. You should take the
medication for a week before travelling, throughout your stay, and for a month after returning.
2. Avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET. Keep your arms and legs
covered after sunset. Sleep in properly screened rooms and employ a 'knockdown' spray to kill any
mosquitoes in the room. Use a mosquito net preferably impregnated with an insecticide around the bed at
night, ensuring that there are no holes in it and that it is well tucked in.
Note, none of these precautions will give absolute protection. If you develop a fever, or feel ill, while
abroad or up to three months after returning, it is essential you seek medical attention immediately. If you
develop these symptoms after you have left a malarial region, tell the/your doctor that you have been to a
country where malaria is a health risk.
Rabies is an acute viral infection of the nervous system, its symptoms include delirium and painful muscle
spasms in the throat. Once symptoms develop in human beings, the disease is usually fatal. Rabies can
occur in animals in Europe and North America as well as in the less developed countries. You can contract
the disease if any infected animal bites you. Always avoid touching any animal, whether wild, stray or
apparently 'tame', if you are bitten, 'post-exposure' treatment, if given early enough, usually prevents the
disease developing.
If you are bitten by an animal while overseas:
i. Wash the wound immediately, using soap or detergent, or flush with clean water, apply alcohol if
possible;
ii. Get medical attention - IMMEDIATELY. Go to the nearest doctor or hospital. You may need a rabies
vaccination and the course of injections must be started immediately. Ask for 'human diploid cell vaccine', if
possible. In case of any difficulty, contact your nearest Consular official;
iii. Note the date and place of the incident, the animal's description and whether it was wild or stray;
iv. If the animal was not wild or a stray, try to identify its owner as soon as possible to ascertain if it is
already/becomes sick. Exchange names, addresses and telephone numbers with the person responsible
for it, and arrange to keep in contact to find out whether the animal becomes sick or dies. Find out whether
it has had rabies vaccine and ask to see the certificate. But even if one is produced, do not assume there is
no risk;
v. Inform the local police;
vi. Whether or not you receive treatment outside the UK, consult your doctor as soon as you return;
vii. A rabies vaccine before travel is only recommended for those who may be exposed to a higher risk of
infection or who are undertaking long journeys in remote areas where medical treatment may not be
immediately available. Even if you are immunized, however, this does not remove the need for
urgent treatment if you are bitten by an infected animal.
Viral Hepatitis is a liver infection that can cause jaundice. There are several forms of the disease,
including hepatitis A (sometimes called infectious hepatitis), hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Hepatitis A - most people catch this abroad by consuming contaminated food or water. It can also be
spread from person to person, since the virus is present in faeces. If you are travelling to places where
sanitation is basic, you need to be especially aware of the risk of infection. Take care over what you eat
and drink, and wash your hands after going to the lavatory and before handling food. There is a vaccine
against hepatitis A.
43
Hepatitis B occurs worldwide and is spread in the same ways as HIV/AIDS through:
 intimate person-to-person contact ;
 sharing contaminated needles or syringes;
 transfusions of contaminated blood;
 the use of inadequately sterilised equipment in medical treatment, tattooing, piercing, acupuncture
or electrolysis.
There is a vaccine, which gives good protection against the disease. The best way to prevent infection is to
avoid the high-risk activities listed above and to take a travel kit for use in medical emergencies.
Hepatitis C is more common in many other countries than it is in the UK. It is spread in the same way as HIV/AIDS
and hepatitis B. There is no vaccine. The best way to avoid infection is to take the precautions recommended against
HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B.
HIV/AIDS AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) has now spread across the world. There is no
vaccine or cure. Infection with HIV is more common than AIDS itself. People infected with HIV remain
infected and infectious all their lives.
HIV/AIDS can be passed on in four main ways:




Through unprotected sex with an infected person;
Through the use of infected syringes, medical and dental instruments, and anything else which
punctures the skin, such as tattooing equipment;
By transfusions of HIV infected blood;
From an infected mother to her baby, before or during child-birth or through breast-feeding.
HIV/AIDS cannot be passed on through everyday social contact or through insect bites, dirty food
or crockery, nor activities such as kissing, coughing or sneezing.
To protect you against HIV/AIDS:

Do not have sex except with your usual partner. Casual sexual intercourse can be very risky. People
can be infectious even though they may not be aware of it, and even if they look and feel well;

If you do have sex with a new partner, always use a condom. They are the most effective protection
against HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases;

Do not inject non-prescribed drugs. If you do, never share equipment;

Do not have a tattoo, acupuncture, or your ears pierced, unless you can be sure that the equipment is
sterile;

Since some countries do not have the same standards of medical and dental hygiene as the UK,
needles and other equipment may not be adequately sterilised, nor blood screened for the presence of
HIV or hepatitis B or C, ensure that:
-
any medical treatment, particularly a blood transfusion, is absolutely necessary;
any medical equipment used is freshly sterilised or is taken from a sealed pack;
if you need a transfusion, ask for screened blood. If you are going to an area where the availability of
sterile needles and syringes for medical treatment is in doubt, consider taking a special kit with you.

Some countries have introduced HIV antibody testing for visitors, or require an HIV antibody test
certificate. If in doubt, check with your Embassy or High Commission of the country concerned.
Protecting Your Safety Overseas
Buy a good travel guide that includes basic information on local laws and customs. Talk to your travel
agent, tour operator and research yourself about possible risks.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Leave an itinerary and details of
where you might be able to be contacted during your time abroad. You should also make two copies of
your passport (including pages with relevant visas), insurance details and any other important travel
documents. Leave one copy at home with a family member or a reliable friend and take one copy with you,
always kept separately from the originals. It is useful to always have some form of identity on you, such as
a driving licence or a photocopy of your passport.
Accommodation
44





Avoid ground floor rooms where possible;
Never leave your key where someone can note your room number;
Do not leave your window open, especially if your room is on the ground floor or has a balcony;
Remember to lock your room door even when you are inside the room;
Never open your room door to anyone without checking that they are genuine.
Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds, such as traveller’s cheques, some cash
(sterling or US dollars) or credit cards. Before you leave, check that your cards are valid, and find out how
you can replace them and your traveller’s cheques if they are lost or stolen. Keep a separate note of their
numbers and of the number you would need to ring to stop any credit cards if they are lost or stolen.
If you are planning to drive, make sure your driving licence is current and valid. Make sure you know the
driving laws, licence requirements and driving conditions in the country you are visiting. In some countries
you will need to have an international driving permit. Never drink and drive and be aware that in many
countries there are on-the-spot fines for traffic offences.
Remember you will not be covered by the University insurance policy while driving a hired vehicle.
Be aware of security and take sensible precautions.
Leave your jewellery and valuables at home if you can. Only carry as much money as you need for the day
and leave the rest, and at least one credit card, in the hotel/accommodation safe if one is available.
Stay aware of what is going on around you and keep away from situations where you do not feel
comfortable. Find out from your guidebook or tour guide about any local ‘scams’. Keep up to date with
local and regional events in the media. Don’t take risks overseas that you wouldn’t take at home. If a
situation looks dangerous, it probably is.
Stay in regular touch with your family, friends and University tutor in the UK, especially if you are
travelling alone, in a remote area or you are aware of a terrorist attack or other catastrophe in the region in
which you are travelling. Although you may feel perfectly safe, people at home may worry if they don’t hear
from you, and could report you missing.
You must keep to local laws - there may be very serious penalties for breaking a law which might seem
trivial to you or for doing something which may not be illegal in the UK. Do not overstay your visa or work
permit - you may be fined or sent to prison. Hobbies that involve using cameras and binoculars, such as
bird watching or plane spotting, may be misunderstood (particularly near military sites). If in doubt, don’t
do it.
Respect local customs and behave and dress appropriately, particularly when visiting religious sites,
markets and rural communities. Travel guidebooks, tour operators and hotel staff are all useful sources of
information. If in doubt, take extra care. In some places, behaviour that would be acceptable elsewhere
can lead to serious trouble. In some countries, it can also be worth asking for permission before taking any
photographs so as not to cause offence.
Going out









Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return;
Be aware of “no-go” areas and avoid them;
Make sure you know the address and phone number of where you are staying and how to get back;
Stay aware of what is going on around you and keep away from situations where you do not feel
comfortable;
Be wary of new ‘friends’. Don’t tell strangers where you are staying or give out too many details about
your travel plans;
Be cautious of people who ignore your personal space, do not listen to you, and make you feel guilty if
you resist their advances or appear to be very drunk;
Keep the phone number of a trustworthy taxi or minicab company with you at all times. (Hotels and tour
companies can normally give you details of such). If possible book taxis through the hotel, the drivers
name and approximate fare should be verified beforehand;
Always keep some money for phone calls and a taxi journey home from your destination separate from
the spending money you take out with you;
If you are in a vehicle and you feel threatened, firmly ask the driver to stop and try to get out in a busy
public place. If the driver refuses to stop, try alerting other drivers by shouting or waving out of the
window;
45

Do not flaunt your (relative) wealth, consider carrying two wallets, one should be prepared as a
‘dummy’ to be thrown down if threatened. It should contain around US $50, some local currency, a few
old receipts, expired credit cards and a few UK notes - Never resist violent theft.
If you feel threatened





Stay calm, and try to be firm and direct;
Remember that you always have the right to say ‘no’ at any point. Never feel that you have to go
further than you feel comfortable with;
If you feel pressured, get out of the situation. Never assume that it won’t happen to you;
Get away from the person you are with and go to a safe place;
If you feel uncomfortable or in danger, do not be afraid to draw attention to yourself. Shout, make a
fuss and make people aware that you feel threatened.
Victims of crime overseas, your Consulate can give general information about local police and legal
procedures, but they cannot give you legal advice.





If you need medical treatment, they can help you to contact a local doctor;
If you want them to, they can contact your relatives and friends and let them know what has
happened;
They can offer you financial help if applicable;
They can give you a list of local English-speaking lawyers and interpreters.
If you are in hospital as a result of an assault or other crime, they will visit you as soon as possible.
Always remember to contact the emergency helpline on the University insurance policy document!
Work based Health & Safety: The prevention of accidents in all places of work is the duty of every person
using or entering them. Ensuring the health and safety of others is as important as the avoidance of
personal injury. The general standards of health and safety can vary markedly between countries, whilst
the University will always do what is reasonably practicable to ensure your placement is safe, you must
also ensure that you also take responsibility for your own health and safety whilst in a work placement
provider’s premises.
The University would expect, no matter which country you are in, for your placement provider, so far as is
reasonably practicable, to






ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees (including you);
provide safe equipment and systems of work;
ensure the safe use, handling, storage and transport of articles and substances;
provide you with information, instruction, training and supervision;
maintain a safe place of work and safe means of access and egress;
provide reasonable adjustments if you are disabled.
If you have any concerns that your provider is failing to do this, you should raise this with the
provider and your University tutor as soon as possible.
As an employee (whether paid or not) of the provider the University would expect you:



to take reasonable care of yourself and others in the workplace;
to co-operate with the provider and to use safety appliances and follow safety procedures;
not to interfere with or misuse with anything provided for your safety or others safety.
General safety rules: You should make it one of your first tasks on placement to become familiar with any
special instructions or procedures issued for dealing with emergencies peculiar to the place in which you
are working. You must familiarise yourself with:





the layout of the building;
the location of fire-fighting appliances and how they work (you must be trained if you use them!);
ways of getting out of the building in an emergency which may be different to the way you came in;
the position of telephones;
first aid arrangements.
Remember, it may be too late to find out much when an emergency actually happens. If you have
any queries on safety matters consult your supervisor or safety representative.
46
Action to be taken in an emergency: Because of the wide variety of work which is carried out and the
possible complex layout of the various buildings it is not possible to produce a set of valid and detailed
emergency instructions to cover every situation, which may arise. For this reason each employer has its
own emergency instructions relating to particular buildings. There should be in every building a notice
setting out the procedure to be adopted in case of fire/emergency.
There are certain points which apply to all emergency situations:






You should commit to memory the standing orders for emergency action. You will have no time to read
them in an emergency;
Remember, you are expected to act in the ‘spirit’ of the instructions. There is no substitute for common
sense;
The most important consideration at all times is human safety;
Remember, if you become a casualty someone must rescue you, possibly at personal risk to
themselves;
You should act quietly and methodically. You should not rush or attempt to pass others when leaving
the scene of an emergency;
The senior person present should assume control of the situation, ensuring the safe evacuation of the
premises and warn the Emergency Services, etc, of known specific hazards;
If you have to telephone for emergency assistance, the following information must always be given:





Who you are;
Where you are: the location and telephone extension from which you are telephoning;
The nature of the emergency and what services are required;
The exact location where assistance is required, you should ensure that the message has been
correctly received by asking for it to be repeated back to you;
It is essential that the location is clearly defined. Local terminology should not be used because for
instance, “the research site” means very little to the Emergency Services.
Fire Precautions: applying routine precautions, some of which are set out below, can prevent most fires.
When a fire occurs, the principal hazard to people is the smoke which is generated and most deaths at fires
are due to asphyxia by smoke. Double doors in corridors and doors leading from kitchens are designed to
retain the smoke to allow the remaining corridors to be used for evacuating the building. The means of
escape have a specified fire resistance so that the fire can be contained in a small section of the building.
Means of Escape: Ensure that rooms, passages, corridors and stairways are not obstructed and that fire
doors are kept closed. If a room contains an emergency exit, make sure that it is unobstructed so that it is
immediately available for use in an emergency.
Use of Fire Extinguishers: Do not attempt to use an extinguisher unless you have received
appropriate instruction and training and if it is safe to do so.
Discretion is essential in deciding the lengths to which fire fighting is pursued. Portable fire-fighting
equipment is not designed to cope with extensive fires and it is important that fire fighting should cease and
the location should be evacuated, as soon as the effects of fire threaten the means of escape, the building
structure, or otherwise indicate that it is out of control. Before attempting to fight a fire always ensure the
alarm has been raised and you are able to leave the area if the fire escalates out of control.
You should ensure you know the correct fire extinguisher to use and have received instruction in its use.
The use of the wrong choice of extinguisher can turn a minor incident into a major disaster. Several kinds
of fire-fighting equipment may be found in the workplace. It is the duty of everyone to know where they are
located, and for what types of fire each one is intended.
Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are most generally used for electrical fires or in laboratories. They make no
mess and there is little danger of apparatus nearby being knocked over or damaged. They can be used
where live electrical circuits are involved. However, they have little cooling effect and until the extinguished
material has cooled below the ignition temperature care must be taken to ensure that the fire does not reignite. Note: these extinguishers are very powerful, they can reduce the oxygen content of the atmosphere
in a confined space to a dangerously low level and can spread fire if used in the wrong circumstances.
Water extinguishers discharge water under pressure and are recommended for use on fires involving
paper, wood, etc. They must not be used on fires where there are live electrical circuits. They may be
47
used for solvents miscible with water. It should be noted that the strong jet of water can itself cause
damage.
AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) is a multi-purpose extinguisher suitable for most types of fires and it
is ideal for dealing with the majority of fires involving flammable liquids. The aqueous film prevents reignition of the fire with limited cooling properties. Foam extinguishers may be used on immiscible liquids
which are lighter than water, e.g. petrol and most oils. They must not be used on live electrical circuits.
Hose Reels are usually sited in corridors/large rooms, for use where extinguishers discharging water may
be inadequate. They are intended to be used on fires involving wood structures, paper, fabrics, etc.
Fire/Smoke-Stop Doors may be installed throughout buildings so as to prevent smoke and hot toxic gases
circulating along routes to safety. These doors must not be wedged or propped open. They must be kept
closed at all times after access and egress has been affected.
Fire Detection Systems give an early warning of a fire, particularly if the fire starts in an unoccupied area.
There are generally two types of detector used, heat and smoke detectors
Misuse of fire-fighting equipment, e.g. hose-reels, fire extinguishers and fire-alarms, may render it
inoperable when required in an emergency and could even result in loss of life and may be a criminal
offence.
Fire Instructions may appear in the Emergency Procedures for the organisation and/or posters, however
they may not be in English and you should ask for a translation.
Precautions in low risk workplaces (offices, hotels, universities etc): A recent UK survey has revealed
that offices are the scene of a substantial number of serious accidents every year and this is likely to be no
different overseas. All accidents are avoidable. Slip/trip/fall accidents may simply be the result of an untidy
workplace. There is an increasing use of machinery in offices, e.g. paper-guillotines, photocopiers etc,
which should only be operated according to the makers’ instructions. Only maintenance personnel should
remove the enclosing panels of machines.
Two of the worst electrical hazards are careless or unskilled workmanship and faulty or worn out
equipment. Neither of these hazards need arise. Electric supplies and equipment can be responsible for
fires, explosions personal injury and even death. If your placement provider has equipment which shows
signs of misuse, overloading or poor maintenance e.g. frayed and/or taped cables, burning around sockets,
missing parts, etc you should refuse to use this equipment and notify the provider that the equipment may
be dangerous to use. Remember, some overseas colour coding of electrical leads differs from British
practice. In no circumstances must you interfere with the wiring or connections of any electric point or
appliance. IF IN DOUBT ASK.
In case of fire involving electrical equipment, the first action to take must be to switch off the power supply
to that equipment. Electrical fires should only be tackled (if you have been trained), with a carbon dioxide
extinguisher never with water or foam.
When carrying files, boxes, etc, you should not carry so much that your vision is obscured. Filing cabinet
drawers should always be closed as soon as you have found what you want. The corner of a metal drawer
can inflict a very painful injury. Only open one drawer at a time because more than one drawer open may
cause a filing cabinet to tip forward.
You must never stand on revolving stools or chairs and should avoid using any chair or stool where steps
are provided. A fall onto the end of a desk or an open drawer can cause a very serious injury. You should
not leave stacks of boxes, kit bags or files on the floor near doorways for people to fall over or on means of
escape.
Using Display Screen Equipment (e.g. computers, lap tops, etc), though most people consider the use
of such as equipment as “low risk”, habitual utilization of poorly designed equipment and its associated
furniture/workstation can lead to significant musculoskeletal problems, aches, pains, sensory loss, fatigue
or stress problems if not suitable for the work to be carried out.
If you are to habitually use computers, lap tops, etc as part of your placement you should ensure your
workstation setup has the following, a screen which is adjustable, clear and without flicker or glare; the
desk has sufficient size for the task, your chair is stable, on castors, swivels and is easily adjustable for
height, tilt and backrest. You should undertake regular changes of activity, which does not involve use of
DSE equipment (i.e. at least 5-10 mins break from keyboard/screen work every 50-60 mins)
48
First Aid: Your provider should have some level of first aid provision. Medical advice should always be
sought, if you injury yourself. Initially, simple first aid measures may be applied:
Minor cuts: Cuts and grazes are best treated by cleansing under running water and then dried. A dry
dressing or plaster should then be applied.
Severe bleeding: Bleeding will be stopped by applying direct pressure on a dressing covering the wound
and if possible elevating the affected part.
Burns and scalds: The affected parts should be immersed under running cold water for about 10 minutes
at least then a dry dressing only applied.
Chemical spillage: All chemicals must be washed off the body with copious amounts of water. Some
laboratories have emergency showers and should always be used when available.
Needle stick injuries: Allow all puncture injuries to bleed freely then wash under running water using soap
or a hand cleanser. Medical advice should always be sought.
Eye injuries: All eye injuries must be irrigated thoroughly then treated at a first aider or local hospital. You
should never attempt to remove foreign objects from the eye. Always seek medical assistance.
Hazardous substances in the workplace could include adhesives, paints, cleaning agents, fumes from
soldering or welding, wood dusts, laboratory chemicals etc. If your placement activity involves you working
with hazardous substances, your placement provider MUST have notified the University, assessed the risks
to health from the substance/s, decided what precautions to prevent exposure are required, ensured that
control measures are used and maintained, monitored exposure, carried out health surveillance checks and
ensured that as an ‘employee’ you are properly informed, trained and supervised in there use.
If you were not expecting as part of your placement activities to be working with hazardous substances, it is
advised that you contact your University placement tutor immediately and not use such substances until
you have been advised to the contrary.
Personal Protective Equipment is any equipment (including clothing affording protection against the
weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects him against one or
more risks to health or safety’. If you are undertaking a work-based activity where your placement provider
supplies you with PPE you MUST use/wear it. It is an offence to damage or interfere with any PPE you
have been provided with. If PPE is required your provider should not ask you to pay for it.
The reporting of accidents and ill health at work is a legal requirement in the UK. If you have an
accident or a ‘near-miss’ incident whilst on placement overseas you MUST notify your placement provider
and ensure that they, or you notify your University placement organiser. It should be noted that even an
injury, which appears at first sight to be trivial, should be reported, since some 'trivial' injuries occasionally
develop into more serious situations.
To ensure your own safety, as far as reasonably practicable, you should employ these age-old maxims “If it
looks dangerous, it probably is” and "If in doubt, ask"
Safety, Health & Environment Section
Sept 2011
49
Further Information
University emergency contact numbers - Security & Logistics (24-hour security lodge) holds a cascade
list of senior staff in Student Services and other areas of the University: (+44) 01772 892068
Department of Health. Health Advice for Travellers:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/PolicyAndGuidance/HealthAdviceForTravellers/fs/en
University Health, Safety & Environment Section: - Tel: (+44) 01772 892067
http://www.uclan.ac.uk/information/services/fm/safety_and_health/index.php
University Travel Office:
http://www.uclan.ac.uk/information/services/finance/travel/index.php
Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Site:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/
FCO LOCATE Scheme:
https://www.locate.fco.gov.uk/locateportal/
World Health Organisation:
http://www.who.int/en/
TravelHealth Advice (detailed advice on various travel related issues):
http://www.travelhealth.co.uk/advice/index.html
NHS Fit to Travel:
http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx
NHS Taking medicines overseas:
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/1074.aspx
NHS Health Care Abroad http://www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/Healthcareabroad/pages/Healthcareabroad.aspx
DirectGov - Airport and airline services for disabled travellers
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/TravelHolidaysAndBreaks/GettingThere/DG_4017242
50
Appendix 9.
Overseas Travel Checklist
1
2
Pre-Planning Issues
Yes
a) Have you checked the FCO website for relevant

travel advice on the country you are visiting?
b) Are there any travel restrictions to the country you
are visiting?


C) Do the FCO identify any major concerns with travel
to this country?


a) Any necessary/advised vaccinations you may
require?


b) Personal health needs, if applicable, e.g.


climatic extremes?
allergies?
mobility issues?
medications?
special dietary requirements?
long haul flights?
contact with venomous, poisoness or
aggressive animal or any plant that may pose
health risk?
a) Have you declared any relevant pre-existing
medical condition or disability?
















b) Has a travel risk assessment been completed?


c) If applicable, have lone worker issues been
adequately addressed?
Has information been obtained on what you can /
cannot take on flights and import into the country of
destination?
If driving abroad, have you checked your driving
license is valid in the country to be visited?






Are you aware of driving patterns in that country?
Do you know whom to contact to receive medical,
legal, consular, local, and assistance while abroad?
Have you asked your hosts for local advice on
personal safety e.g. going out after dark, using public
transport, areas to avoid etc.?
a) Do you have a copy of the University’s travel
insurance and medical emergency numbers?








b) Do you understand what the insurance covers?
Has an up-to-date itinerary of your trip been lodged
with your Placement Organiser?
Do you know who to contact in an emergency?
Have next of kin and GP contact details been lodged
with your Placement Organiser?








Have you sought advice
Occupational Health on:
from
your
GP
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Comments
or







4
No

51