Workers under 34 looking for more frequent check-ins from employer
A majority of North American business travellers believe their employers are not doing enough to ensure their safety during work trips, according to a recent report.
Nearly six in 10 Canadian (57 per cent) say their employer could do more to protect them while travelling for work, reports World Travel Protection (WTP).
More than seven in 10 (71 per cent) indicated they would decline a business trip if they did not feel confident that their safety and well-being were being prioritised. Additionally, 64 per cent of Canadian respondents said they would consider leaving their job if their employer did not take travel safety seriously.
“Travel preparation is essential,” says Frank Harrison, regional security director, Americas, of WTP. “Travellers need comprehensive pre-trip briefings, clear information about local risks, and the confidence of knowing exactly where to get help while abroad. Insurance only steps in after an incident, but it does nothing to prevent medical or security issues or to support employees when they need help most.”
Employer supports for travel
The survey found that younger Canadian employees are especially likely to feel underprotected. Among respondents under 34, 63 per cent in Canada said their employer could do more to keep them safe, compared to just 36% of those over 55.
This younger cohort was also more likely to want frequent check-ins, with 66% saying they wanted more regular contact while traveling, compared to 51% of older travellers.
While most business travellers reported receiving some support—such as access to emergency helplines, pre-travel briefings, or travel risk management providers—many indicated a desire for more proactive engagement and clearer guidance from their employers, found WTP. Only a small proportion (14 per cent in Canada) said they received no support at all.
Business travel has become riskier with increased scrutiny from the U.S., according to experts.
How to worker ensure safety during business travel
Employers have health and safety responsibilities for business travellerers, according to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).
“This responsibility usually relates to the employer’s general duty to take every reasonable precaution for the protection of workers,” it says. “Attending training or conferences would also be considered business purposes. In general, a person would be considered ‘working’ when driving or flying, staying at a hotel, or eating at a restaurant. Exceptions may be when there is a personal errand or if the employee goes to an event that is not related to work activities. Always confirm duties and requirements in your local jurisdiction.”
To ensure worker safety during business trips, employers can do the following, says CCOHS:
- Identify any hazards associated with each travel event and assess the risk.
- Provide education and training about hazards and risks associated with travel.
- Develop and instruct workers to follow personal safety guidelines while travelling.
- Provide a reliable vehicle if one is used for business travel.
- Confirm that other workplace policies apply, such as restrictions on cell phone use while driving or to use working alone procedures.
Many travelers say their company's travel budgets are being affected by the uncertain economy, and may feel business trips have a huge role in their career progression, according to previous reports.
