ichael Clements is Director for Global Protective Services at Hitachi Data Systems. The
company operates in over 100 countries with 4,500 employees worldwide and is responsible for around 29,000 travel days a year. “For me, each one of those days is a potential medical or security emergency”, says Michael.
Critical Information Hitachi has a 24x7 Global Security Operations Center and comprehensive Traveler Protection Program that are focused on educating, preparing, supporting and protecting its travelers and expatriates. “We put a lot of emphasis on preparation and support”, says Michael. Hitachi has structured internal communication channels for communicating travel policies.
Pre-trip information about travelers is critical. In addition to TravelTracker and its own travel team the company polls HR managers to find out if any personnel are in an affected country for personal reasons.
Hitachi also uses International SOS’ Emergency Record system which provides a secure online repository for important medical details (for example allergies, vaccinations) and emergency contact information. “We insist on completion of the Emergency Record before travel for a couple of reasons. Firstly it provides vital data which International SOS can access in a medical emergency. Secondly it gives travelers themselves a process for retaining such important information”, says Michael.
Important decisions He also underlines the importance of emergency planning. “The Egypt crisis prompted us to work with our expatriates in Riyadh and Dubai to create a more comprehensive evacuation plan”, explains Michael. He points out that immediate evacuation isn’t always essential and in fact Hitachi decided that it was best for its personnel in Egypt to stay in their hotels until alternative air travel arrangements were confirmed (plan A) and contingencies (plans B and C) were in place.
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