Employment Law QandA by Alison Loveday, managing partner and head of employment at Manchester-based, Berg Legal
Released on: April 24, 2008, 2:26 am
Press Release Author: Alison Loveday
Industry: Law
Press Release Summary: Q: Where do firms stand legally if directors/managers or employees get into trouble abroad? And, what happens if they are uninsured?
Press Release Body: Q: Where do firms stand legally if directors/managers or employees get into trouble abroad? And, what happens if they are uninsured?
"It's important to remember that regardless of where your employees are, they are always connected to your company. This, in turn, means that you are liable for their care whilst outside of the UK.
"It is advisable to consider all of the risk factors involved before your employees travel, particularly in relation to whether it's really necessary for them to go abroad and how long the duration of their stay should be. It's also useful to check guidance and advisory notes issued by the British national consulate in the country that you are intending to visit. Most will dictate whether there are any problems that commercial visitors should be aware of, along with practical notes explaining what injections or medical examinations are required prior to travel.
"Businesses need to be certain that staff members are appropriately insured so that individuals, and any company assets, are protected in the event of an issue. With that in mind, it is worth checking policy details to confirm whether employees are covered for any trips or secondments abroad.
"Those who choose to not insure their staff could be potentially liable for any loss suffered and may face litigation. Although quite a costly risk to take, there are rather high statistics that state approximately one in ten companies fail to insure their staff. Considering this, it is imperative that companies are aware of their responsibilities for staff wellbeing and take all necessary precautions in an effort to avoid any problems abroad."
Web Site: http://www.berg.co.uk
Contact Details: 35 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5BG