Engineers in the modern-day energy industry are well aware their work can take them to many places they certainly wouldn’t choose as a family holiday destination.
The industry today operates on a global basis and personnel are frequently assigned to overseas projects – perhaps in geographically hostile environments, post-war areas or even in hotspots of political unrest.
In any event, they need to be ready: informed in advance of the hazards or pitfalls they may encounter and equipped with the means to deal with them – particularly at a time when the complexities and dangers associated with international travel are assuming ever-sharper focus.
Caerus Resources adds value to the recruitment process by providing clients with a detailed brief of the country or geographical area they are travelling to if required.
For the individual, common sense will shape much of their approach to their everyday personal safety and wellbeing when they’re actually in the host country.
However, there are some specific reference points that should always be borne in mind.
These range from remaining fully aware of the local visa process to ensure its obligations can be met in any circumstances, to understanding the nuances of any local bribery practices, and the consequences of becoming involved.
Equally, they can be as diverse as carrying your own first aid kid to complement company resources, to taking enough cash to pay for incidental expenses or, if you have to, only using cash machines located inside a bank.
In practical terms, individuals can in some countries minimise risks to personal safety by avoiding the use of national symbols and company logos on possessions, dressing in clothing that won’t attract attention such as combat-style gear, and being aware of language or terminology that could be deemed offensive locally.
There are, of course, many government and organisation websites that provide guidance and relevant information.
It’s important to gather knowledge and advice from any authoritative source, ahead of travel, to ensure you’re in the know and ready to avoid travel trouble.
Caerus Resources is a specialist Aberdeen-based upstream oil and gas recruitment firm. For more information visit www.caerusresources.co.uk