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Risk Assessment Uzbekistan
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Risk Assessment for School Trip to Uzbekistan

Introduction

This risk assessment outlines key considerations, safety measures, and preparations for a cultural school trip to Uzbekistan. It ensures that all participants have a safe and enriching experience while minimising potential risks.
 

General

  • Local suppliers: All local suppliers are officially registered with local authorities and have the necessary permits to operate. We have a long-standing relationship with our local partners, ensuring reliability and quality.
  • Physical activities: This is a cultural trip with no strenuous physical activities planned, though participants should be prepared for some walking as part of the itinerary.
  • Health and safety: Tap water is unsafe for drinking; participants are encouraged to consume bottled water and ensure they have an adequate supply throughout the trip. Additionally, they should be prepared for a warmer climate and adapt to a different diet.
  • Safety: Uzbekistan is generally a very safe country. Locals are friendly and helpful. Participants should use common sense and avoid obvious dangers, as they would in any foreign city.
  • Behavioural expectations: Participants must behave appropriately and respect local traditions and laws. Any issues, doubts, or concerns should be immediately reported to the local representatives.

Transport

  • Transport standards: Transport provided (coaches) is not older than 2015, with three buses manufactured in 2020. The actual coach will be allocated closer to departure, with different coaches used in each city. Licensing documentation has been reviewed. 
  • Trains: The group will travel on the high-speed train Afrosiab, manufactured by the Spanish company “Patentes Talgo S.L.” This train meets modern safety standards.
  • Reporting issues: Any transport-related issues should be reported to the guide immediately.
  • Responsibility disclaimer: Our company cannot assume responsibility for delays or issues related to Uzbekistan’s railways or airways.

Accommodation

All accommodations have excellent customer reviews. Below is a list of sample hotels; a separate hotel list will be confirmed for each school trip: All selected hotels will have good reviews and meet the necessary standards for comfort and safety.
 

Activities

  • Pilaf master class: The group will observe a demonstration of pilaf preparation but will not participate in cooking for safety reasons.
  • Ceramics workshop: Participants will observe the firing process. Their work will be fired later and made available upon return from Samarkand. This activity poses no safety risks.
  • Free time: Participants should have sufficient bottled water and stay hydrated. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes available along the routes for breaks.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Medical facilities: 
    • Tashkent: An international clinic is available (Tashclinic) and is experienced in working with insurance companies.
    • Samarkand: Several good private clinics are available, but evacuation to Tashkent or the home country is preferred for serious cases.
  • Emergency evacuation:
    • Within Uzbekistan: Patients will be evacuated to the nearest clinic or to Tashkent, depending on the situation. Helicopter evacuation is possible but subject to cost arrangements.
    • Back to home country: Assistance will be provided, and the embassy may be involved to expedite processes in critical cases.
  • Transport and equipment: All transport vehicles are insured and properly equipped. Hotels used for the trip are fully equipped for safety. Guides are trained to act in emergencies.

Authority and Behaviour Management

  • Responsibilities: Teachers and accompanying staff are responsible for the students’ behaviour. Guides will assist and monitor the group during excursions but are primarily responsible for conducting the tours.
  • Behavioural rules: All participants must abide by the authority of the trip leaders, guides, and local suppliers. Misbehaviour or health conditions that pose a risk to the group’s safety or welfare may result in removal from the tour without refund.

Insurance

  • Mandatory insurance: All participants must have adequate travel insurance that provides medical and personal accident coverage. It is essential to ensure that the insurance policy includes coverage for Uzbekistan, as some policies may only cover Europe. A worldwide cover is required to avoid any gaps in protection during the trip. Insurance is a condition of participation in the tour.
  • Costs and coverage: Medical and evacuation costs are the responsibility of the participants. Local representatives will provide support as needed to address medical or evacuation concerns.

Emergency Medical Contacts

For medical emergencies, dial 103 to call an ambulance. Patients are typically transported to Republican Scientific Centres for Emergency Medical Care. These are multi-specialty hospitals equipped to provide comprehensive medical assistance in any situation. In addition to these facilities, there are also private medical institutions available. Contact details for both public and private medical facilities are listed below. In the event of a critical situation involving life and death, including emergency medical evacuations to your home country, assistance is available only through the respective embassies.