International SOS unveils the Risk Outlook Survey 2022
Organisations worldwide are set to increase investment in employee health. That’s the findings of the International SOS Risk Outlook 2022. The report and updated global risk maps also signal that organisations are grappling with an increasingly complex risk landscape.
The survey of nearly 1,000 risk professionals across 75 countries, coupled with insight from the Workforce Resilience Council and International SOS proprietary data, indicates that both mental and physical health support will see increased investment. In fact, over half (56 per cent) of organisations intend to increase spending on both.
Organisations are facing a dual challenge on the health front. Along with the physical aspects of Covid-19 safety, the pandemic has significantly contributed to a mental health crisis. Over a third of respondents (36 per cent) expect mental health to cause a significant decrease in productivity in 2022.
The need for increased investment comes as organisations expect to face increased risks in 2022. Over two thirds (68 per cent) of organisations anticipate risks to increase or stay the same next year. In particular, decision makers responsible for business travel (69 per cent) and international assignees (67 per cent) expect risk levels to increase or stay the same in 2022.
Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS, India, “In 2022 we are facing a layered threat environment. As the global pandemic continues with variant-driven waves, India is by no means in a safe zone. The rapid overwhelming of the healthcare infrastructure during the second wave of Covid-19 in India, highlights the need for organisations to take a proactive approach to initiate steps that secure employees and dependents.
The threat to employee health and safety goes beyond Covid-19 with mental health being a clear and present concern in 2022. Organisations who prepare for current and emerging health and wellness challenges are the ones that will build and maintain a resilient workforce and continue to be sustainable. Investing in both emotional health and physical wellness support will be essential for employee retention. This will also help to avoid a vicious cycle of productivity issues.”