The International SOS Foundation, supported by the Ministry of Manpower Singapore, has called for world leaders to add their e-signature to the Singapore declaration in support of the principles of prevention with regard to work-related travel safety, health and security. This follows the official signing ceremony, which took place on the opening day of the XXI World Congress in Singapore recently, already attracting over 100 signatories. The Foundation was pleased to have Mr Heng Chiang Gnee, Chairman, Workplace Safety and Health Council, as the Guest-of-Honour for this milestone event.
The International SOS Foundation is now seeking further participation from all leaders and professionals, who have a responsibility for the Duty of Care of their mobile workforce. The declaration will demonstrate commitment and leadership across all industry sectors, public and private sector and NGOs, to institutions of higher learning and others.
Jukka Takala, President of the International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH), commented, "Taking care of employees is vital, and the mobile workforce should be as well protected during travel or on assignment as they are when working domestically. Increasingly, a robust Duty of Care programme can be a legal imperative, protect business continuity and corporate reputation, as well as attract and retain talent. These are key foundations of all businesses. Organisations of all sizes must make a commitment to put in place appropriate plans and prevention measures. The Singapore declaration is providing the focus and public platform for organisations leading the way."
Laurent Fourier, Executive Director of the International SOS Foundation, added, "The mobile workforce is growing dramatically and becoming increasingly diverse, creating greater potential risks while opening opportunity. In parallel, businesses are increasingly growing through expansion in established and new locations, from densely populated cities to remote territories. International and regional laws in Duty of Care need to be adhered to and the mobile workforce needs to be protected wherever they are. Not only is it a Duty of Care to individuals, but it can also improve business resiliency and continuity through a workforce that is well."
Fourier continued, "It is very encouraging to see so many business leaders from around the world taking an interest in, and are willing to commit to, the principles of prevention. By providing e-signatures for the declaration we hope that all organisations, wherever they are, pledge their commitment and push forward the Duty of Care agenda."
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
