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Can your business afford a loss of reputation as the result of an incident?
02 Jun 2009
Topics: BS 8848
This was the question that led a recent conference hosted by BSI in partnership with the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). The topic for discussion was the updated BS 8848 + A1:2009 Specification for the provision of visits, fieldwork, expeditions and adventurous activities outside the United Kingdom. BS 8848 specifies requirements that have to be met by organizers of adventurous trips in order to conform to best practice. The original version of BS 8848 was first published in April 2007, in response to increased calls to manage the risk of overseas adventure activities. Amongst others, it is aimed at expedition and field trip organizers, gap year travel companies and providers of adventurous holidays. The update to the standard reflects the experience of existing users.
The amendment clarifies certain aspects and ensures the standard remains fit for purpose. For example, a self-declaration checklist has been added, which will help organizations carry out a thorough audit of their processes, manage the risks and communicate this to customers.
"A transparent and safe system for conducting overseas ventures is necessary so that participants may be exposed to dangers without actually coming to harm," says Lt. Col (Retired) John Adams, chairman of the BSI committee responsible for the standard. "BS 8848 has been developed to meet that need, potentially saving lives. For the adventure provider, BS 8848 offers guidance on every aspect of the venture and for those looking for adventure, it offers them reassurance that their travel is organized by a responsible provider."
For more information on BS 8848, visit www.bsigroup.com/bs8848
Business Standards © 2010. Editorial produced by Caspian Publishing in association with The British Standards Institution. Editorial opinions expressed on are not necessarily those of BSI Group or Caspian Publishing. Neither Caspian Publishing nor BSI Group accept responsibility for advertising or editorial content, nor for that appearing on linked third-party websites. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without written permission from BSI Group or Caspian Publishing.
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