A Culture of Safety
At Global Works, a culture of safety is at the forefront of every decision we make. We are committed to risk management and take careful attention to every detail during program planning.
Our programs are designed with thorough safety protocols, local partnerships, and a focus on creating supportive environments for all participants. Some very important ways that we maintain these high standards are:
Highly Trained Staff
Global Works hires skilled, knowledgeable, fun-loving guides, who organize and lead trips according to high standards of quality, safety and, of course, fun. They offer 24/7 support and are chosen for their experience working with students, flexibility, organization, language skills, a sense of humor, and responsibility.
We have a staff return rate of 80% each year, and the average age of our staff is 28. All of our leaders are background checked and certified in First Aid and CPR, and many hold Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certifications. All staff must attend a comprehensive staff training in Colorado each year.
Cornerstone Safety Group
Global Works partners with our risk management consultant, Cornerstone Safety Group. They are are experts in managing the risks of travel and experiential education. This partnership provides on-call medical, mental health, and risk management support throughout our programs.
Emergency Action Plans and Risk Assessments
Global Works has established Emergency Action Plans and Risk Assessments in all of our program destinations. These are in place so that leaders have access to information on how to deal with illness, unexpected situations, and emergencies. We continuously update them so that leaders have the most relevant information to serve our students.
24/7 On Call Support
During programs, Global Works has a dedicated 24/7 emergency phone number. There will always be a director at the other end of this line to support students, leaders, teachers, and parents/guardians as needed.
Individual and Group Weather Checks
Global Works leaders will do Individual Weather Checks every few days with students to touch base about how they are doing on the program. These allow students to share any medical, social, or emotional issues or concerns with leaders in a comfortable and private setting. They will also do Group Weather Checks to get a pulse of group dynamics and broadened awareness of our culture of safety.
Communication
Risk Management takes place before, during, and after each and every program. It starts with communication prior to the program when participants, parents/guardians, and educators speak to Home Office staff and their Trip Leaders. It permeates throughout the program through our contracts, agreements, scouting, and supervision. Finally, after the trip, we reflect, discuss, document, and evolve.
Community Partners
Global Works has developed long-standing relationships with our activity providers and community partners. They are aware of our culture of safety and prove informative instructions and guidance in various activities that students participate in.
