ISO 31030:2021 Travel Risk Management Guidance for Organisations and ISO 31031:2024 Managing Risk for Youth and School Trips offer valuable frameworks for managing the risks associated to travel for two different groups of travellers.
Whilst, ISO 31030 provides a general framework applicable to all organisations, and primarily adults; ISO 31031 focuses specifically on travel risks associated with youth and school trips, there are learnings to be taken from both that can be applied by all, to all.
This blog will delve deeper into the key differences and similarities between these two important standards.
1. Scope and Focus:
- ISO 31030: Broadly applicable to any organisation that sends employees to travel on their behalf.
- ISO 31031: Specifically designed for organisations that organise or facilitate travel activities for youth and school trips, such as schools, colleges, youth organisations, and tour operators.
2. Key Considerations:
- ISO 31030: Focuses on general travel risks such as security threats, health hazards, natural disasters, and political instability.
- ISO 31031: Incorporates the above with specific considerations for youth travel, such as:
- Safeguarding: Child protection, supervision, and appropriate adult-to-child ratios.
- Medical Considerations: Special needs, medical insurance, and evacuation procedures.
- Trip Activities: Risk assessment of specific activities, such as adventure sports and cultural excursions.
- Accommodation: Safety and suitability of accommodation for young people.
3. Clause Comparison:
While both standards share common clauses (e.g., risk identification, risk assessment, risk treatment, communication), ISO 31031 includes clauses specific to youth travel, such as:
- “Handling the specific requirements of children and youth” – This clause addresses critical issues like child protection policies, supervision ratios, and the identification and selection of appropriate participants.
- “Safeguarding” – This clause emphasises the importance of safeguarding policies and procedures to protect children and young people from harm.
- “Medical Considerations” – This clause specifically addresses the unique medical needs of young travelers, including those with special needs.
4. Application:
- ISO 31030: Can be applied by any organisation that sends employees on business travel, both internationally and domestically, regardless of size or industry.
- ISO 31031: Primarily intended for educational institutions and organisations that organise travel activities for youth. However, the principles and guidance can be adapted and applied by other organisations that work with young people. For example, considerations for vulnerable adults with complex needs.
5. Synergy:
While ISO 31031 provides specific guidance for youth travel, the principles and framework outlined in ISO 31030 can be valuable for all organisations, including those that organise youth trips.
Conclusion:
Both ISO 31030 and ISO 31031 offer valuable guidance for managing travel risks. By understanding the unique focus and specific considerations of their stakeholders, the standards can help organisations to develop robust and effective travel risk management programs that prioritise the safety and well-being of all travellers.