Recent events in the middle east have reminded us all how quickly dangerous situations can arise. Members may regularly act in conflict zones, or be offered work that requires them to travel to conflict zones to, for example, inspect property damage, etc.  

Before you accept instructions for international work in conflict zones, we recommend you stop and consider these points.  

• Review the contract carefully to ensure you fully understand what you will be doing, where you will be going, and when.  

• Review the government’s foreign travel advice, so you are aware of actual and potential risks in the locations where you would be.   

• Raise security as an issue with those responsible for your deployment. Make sure you understand who will be responsible for your security and safety and the security measures and platforms that they will put in place.  

• Make sure that there is appropriate insurance in place in the contract. If there isn’t, obtain that insurance yourself. Heath insurance is particularly key.  

• Make sure you fully meet the terms of the insurance policies. For example, some insurance policies may exclude locations where the government advises against travel or may require specific security training before deployment 

If you would like more advice or support, you can reach out to us via the member contact form or at policy@ewi.org.uk.