The winter sports season will soon be upon us, and no one likes a nice leisurely blue run more than Travel Risk Professionals. It’s an excellent opportunity to indulge in sports, mix with friends and enjoy some stunning scenery. Tour Operators are key to providing those memories of lifetimes but there is always the potential for things to go wrong, so here are some valuable tips from Travel Risk Professionals to help safeguard against adverse risk:
- If you are including ski lessons or ski-hire in your package, check that the suppliers (particularly ski schools) hold valid Public Liability Insurance.
- If you or your suppliers are offering ski lessons or providing ski equipment, ensure you complete, maintain and retain all written records of customers’ ability assessments, the equipment issued and the size and settings for that equipment.
- If your own staff are providing ski lessons, having a helmet camera can be a key element to proving that you have given customers appropriate instruction
- Make sure all accommodation providers have confirmed that they hold Public Liability and that they have checked heating systems and boiler flues for worthiness. Boiler flues should be kept clear of snow to avoid carbon monoxide backfilling into properties. In the event of sudden snowfall, please ensure there is a system in place to check and clear snow as necessary.
- If you are providing catered chalets using your own staff, ensure that they are aware of basic food preparation and storage hygiene standards
- Driving conditions can be tricky, so ensure that any transportation providers have good safety records, proof of insurance and experience in accessing, and navigating ski resorts and mountain roads.
- Make it clear to all passengers the importance of having winter sports travel insurance. You have a duty of care to your passengers, and it is important that they have suitable insurance or have upgraded their travel policy to include skiing or snowboarding
- Off-piste skiing should be treated with great care. Take advice from local authorities in advance and on the day on likely conditions, particularly about avalanche risk and potential for incoming adverse weather. Lodge travel plans with the relevant authorities and ensure that good communication channels exist to alert them of an emergency. Update action plans and ensure your suppliers are suitably qualified and experienced.
Our specialist team are dedicated to our Travel Industry Clients and will tailor insurance to match the needs of your business. Request a quote or call us on 0203 545 0901.
