“Duty of Care” refers to the legal obligation companies have to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees and clients during business activities. This responsibility is crucial for creating a secure environment for business travelers, both in their daily commutes and in emergency situations worldwide.
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has released information on safety measures for business travelers. A term that has become prevalent now is “Duty of Care,” which is a legal term meaning that a company has a responsibility to make sure its employees or clients remain free from harm during business, and that actions are taken to prevent any foreseeable harm that could happen in the future.
Duty of Care in Ground Transportation
In the context of the travel industry, “Duty of Care” is akin to a fiduciary responsibility. Companies must ensure that business travelers are provided with safe accommodations and have access to robust insurance policies and emergency plans. This responsibility extends to ground transportation providers, especially with the rise of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft. These services have faced criticism for being under-insured and under-regulated. In today’s unpredictable global climate, it is vital for travel managers to choose ground transportation providers that adhere to stringent “Duty of Care” policies.
Tools and Resources for Travel Managers
To assist travel managers in developing effective “Duty of Care” policies, the GBTA has introduced the Travel Risk Management Maturity Model (TRM3™) Self-Assessment Tool. This tool helps organizations evaluate their policies based on various factors, including data management, education and training, notification procedures, and global communication strategies.
Additionally, implementing a “pre-approval” travel policy, particularly for high-risk destinations, can significantly reduce travel risks. This approach ensures that higher standards of booking and safety are maintained, protecting employees during their travels.
Choosing the Right Ground Transportation Provider
Travel managers should prioritize ground transportation providers that meet all safety requirements and proactively implement “Duty of Care” policies. Such providers should monitor and track all travelers, ensuring their safety in case of emergencies.
Commitment to Safety by DPV Transportation Worldwide
At DPV Transportation Worldwide, we are committed to the highest standards of “Duty of Care.” Our policies include regular drug testing for chauffeurs, comprehensive commercial insurance for all vehicles, and scheduled maintenance checks. We maintain detailed records for accountability and reporting. Our advanced GPS tracking and integrated booking software ensure that we can monitor all rides and streamline the booking process for secure and organized accounting.
By adhering to strict “Duty of Care” standards, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients, ensuring that every journey is as secure as possible.
