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International Working
Planning

Hostile Environments
When planning a trip you must always check the country's status on the BBC's Hostile Environment List.  If the country is listed you must adhere to BBC policy and requirements with regards to this.
 
Useful information on a country can also be gained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
 
 
Occupational Health (OH)
BBC HR Direct can provide up to date advice on immunisations and other health issues related to overseas travel.
Individuals should make an appointment with OH 4-6 weeks prior to departure for the appropriate advice.
 
 
Fitness to Travel
Those with pre-existing medical conditions should make an appointment with Occupational Health to discuss this as soon as possible prior to travelling abroad.
 
Note: Prescribed medication may be difficult to obtain abroad.  Ensure that you take a sufficient supply of any prescribed medication with you for the trip (taking into account any possible delays that you may encounter).
 
 
Contractors
The use of vetted contractors when using UK based contractors, where a BBC vetted list exists for that discipline is mandatory abroad. If using non UK contractors, productions must ensure that contractors are competent and suitable for the work to be undertaken. It may be necessary to make local contractors aware of BBC expectations for safe working; for example, risk assessment, work at height and electrical installations.
 
Advice may be sought from: The local BBC bureau and International Filming Advice.
 
Risks can be minimised by taking UK supervisors to help you select and manage local crews.
 
 
Documentation
The following documents may be useful in ensuring things go smoothly:
  • Visa where required apply in plenty of time.
  • International certificate of vaccination obtained from OH, some countries do not allow entry without this.
  • Photocopies (kept separately) of passports and other crucial documents in case of loss or theft.
  • Work permits.
  • Filming permissions and other licences.
  • Carnet for equipment.
  • Inventory (with serial Nos.) of equipment taken
  • Letter of explanation and import licence for politically sensitive equipment for example PPE such as helmet and flak
  • International driving licence.
 
Take advice from the local embassy; the countries consulate and also from BBC staff/bureaux familiar with the area and country. Local fixers are also vital in ensuring you have all the required information, permissions and visas. Consider the following:
  • Are there restricted or no go areas, especially with regards to filming. This is especially true near military establishments.
  • Are there laws relating to what you are filming or how you are going to film it?
  • Are there laws or strong social customs with regards dress or behaviour? Western values can be at odds with some local values and can lead to severe problems.
 
 
Emergency Arrangements
Ensure good evacuation plans are in place and people know the required procedures. Always arrange alternative routes out of a country.  The more remote or hostile the area the more thorough your plans need to be. It may be a good idea to have a trained first aider on the team. The ORM High Risk team can advise.
 
In a medical emergency, help can be obtained from AXA PPP, it is advisable to contact AXA before you leave in order to make advance arrangements (the more remote the area the more important this is).
A list of the nearest suitable hospitals and medical facilities can be obtained via BBC Insurance or direct from AXA.  Ensure staff are aware of the AXA emergency telephone number.
 
 
Lithium Batteries on US Flights
Passengers will no longer be able to pack loose lithium batteries in checked luggage beginning January 1, 2008 once new federal safety rules take effect.  The new regulation, designed to reduce the risk of lithium battery fires, will continue to allow lithium batteries in checked baggage if they are installed in electronic devices, or in carry-on baggage if stored in plastic bags.
 
Common consumer electronics such as travel cameras, cell phones, and most laptop computers are still allowed in carry-on and checked luggage.  However, the rule limits individuals to bringing only two extended-life spare rechargeable lithium batteries, such as laptop and professional audio/video/camera equipment lithium batteries in carry-on baggage.
 
More information and images can be found on the U.S. Department of Transport site.