A brief review on BS8848: 2014 and its relevance to new or inexperienced expedition ‘medics’.
British Standard 8848: 2014- What it is and what it means for you as an expedition medic.
British Standards are produced by the British Standards Institution, a service organisation that produces standards across a variety of sectors BS 8848:2014 sets standards to manage and minimise the risks associated with a wide range of adventurous travel. Taking its title from the height of Everest in metres, it sets out a good practice for those organising overseas trips including provision of visits, fieldwork, expeditions, and adventurous activities outside the United Kingdom.
Whilst it covers all aspects of the venture from organisation to travel arrangements, this brief run down is going to focus on its implications for the expedition ‘medic’ and is aimed at those interested in starting out in this career. This article does not make up for reading BS 8848 in full,
nor does it provide legal advice.
In this article ‘medic’ refers to anyone providing medical support on a trip and this will very often not be a doctor or a medical professional at all.