How is International SOS working with companies to help them cope with the current pandemic?
Philippe Guibert - Firstly, International SOS supported the organisations by providing them with first-hand, on-the-ground information and regular updates on developments in the international context linked to the coronavirus epidemic. Secondly, International SOS shared its expertise in the setting up crisis units. Our teams provide both medical and safety expertise, from the parameters of the epidemic to the administrative consequences of managing international mobility. The expertise provided by International SOS adapts to the needs of each country. the specific nature of each situation such as the closure of borders or a country's request for quarantine on arrival. Finally, our teams advise organisations when some of their employees are still in a host country (expatriation or one-off business trip) and draw up recommendations on repatriation options.
As the weeks went by, the epidemic that began in China spread around the world. How has your advice to companies changed in the face of the health crisis?
Philippe Guibert - Indeed, our advice to companies has evolved since the beginning of the epidemic. Initially, we provide essentially medical advice. It was mainly a question of learning about the disease and the epidemic, and how it is transmitted... Now, our advice encompasses both our own experience and that of others. health and safety expertise. They are increasingly incorporating the crisis management and security dimensions of the administrative and public health measures taken by countries. Our recommendations today aim to help organisations draw up business continuity plans that work.
How did you accompany the travellers?
Philippe Guibert - In terms of training, all passengers have received training in protection, gestures and safety. good attitudes to follow in the face of the coronavirus epidemic. To help companies deal with this epidemic, we are also publishing situation updates on our website, which are freely available: https://www.internationalsos.com/client-magazines/novel-coronavirus.
