The European Innovation Academy places the utmost importance on the safety and well-being of all participants. This safety protocol is designed to provide a comprehensive and clear framework to ensure a secure experience for all involved. It incorporates essential guidelines, emergency procedures, and safety measures tailored to various aspects of the EIA program. All participants are urged to familiarize themselves with these protocols and adhere strictly to ensure a collective safe environment conducive to learning, cultural immersion, and personal development.

1. Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Before your journey begins, secure comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and personal belongings. Your policy should include:

Medical Coverage: For hospital visits, medications, and procedures.

Trip Interruption: Protects against canceled flights and lost luggage.

Repatriation: In case of severe medical emergencies or repatriation of remains.

Legal Assistance: If legal support is needed during your stay.

Carry proof of insurance and ensure access to a 24/7 emergency assistance number provided by your insurer.

EIA holds no responsibility for the costs related to any insurance matters.

2. Emergency Contact Information and Procedures

EU Emergency Number (medical, fire, police): 112
UK Emergency Number (medical, fire, police): 999

Use the emergency number only in genuine emergencies when there is a real threat to life, health, safety, or property.

For EIA-specific emergencies, contact our dedicated team members (you will find their contact in the EIA App)

Contacting the Participant's Emergency Contacts

During incidents or health and safety emergencies, EIA will contact the accompanying faculty member or, in their absence, the student's university contact, which may initiate contact with the participant’s emergency contacts.

3. Health and Medical Emergencies

If a student with a health emergency has active insurance, we advise them to choose a private hospital as the waiting time may be shorter. However, any foreign person who feels sick or needs health care can be assisted in a public health center or hospital for free. 

4. General Health Guidelines

Basic Precautions: Maintain good hygiene, cover coughs and sneezes, and consider wearing a mask in crowded places if you're feeling ill.

Feeling Unwell?:

• Isolate yourself to prevent spreading the illness.
• Inform EIA staff and your teammates.
• Seek Advice from a healthcare professional

Medications: Keep essential medications and a basic first-aid kit handy. Know where the nearest pharmacy is.

Insurance: Have your insurance information ready and contact them if you need medical care.

5. Mental Health Care

Life Coaches: EIA offers dedicated life coaches to support participants' mental health needs. Do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.

6. Safe Transportation Practices

Europe is considered safe for visitors. However, it is still advisable to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety and well-being.

Trust Official Information and Tickets: Purchase metro tickets from authorized sources. Follow official announcements and guidelines regarding ticket validation and fare requirements.

Vigilance on Public Transport: Stay alert to avoid pickpocketing and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

Night Travel: Use well-lit and busy stations or consider using transportation options like taxis or ridesharing services for added security. Consider traveling in groups or using trusted transportation services after dark.

7. Reporting Theft, Robbery, and Aggravated Assault

In the unfortunate event of theft, robbery, or aggravated assault, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and report the incident. 

For emergencies requiring urgent assistance, contact the EU emergency number 112 or the UK emergency number 999

8. Cultural Orientation and Conduct

At EIA, we prioritize creating a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. We strongly condemn any acts or indications of abuse, racism, discrimination, or violations of human rights, whether in the physical or virtual world.

Conduct Standards: EIA has a zero-tolerance policy for any kind of aggression, abuse, harassment, or discrimination. Please read the Code of Conduct here.

Respect and Integration: Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions.

Alcohol Usage: Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited on site during the EIA program's working hours. 

Drug Usage: The use, possession, distribution, or manufacture of illicit drugs or controlled substances is strictly prohibited at any EIA event. 

Personal Belongings: Participants are responsible for keeping their personal belongings safe throughout the program.

Reporting and Accountability: If any participant experiences or witnesses any incidents harmful to themselves or others, they must immediately inform the EIA Team.

9. Independent Activities

Risk Awareness: Assess the safety of independent activities. Choose reputable providers and communicate your plans with a trusted person.

Personal Responsibility: Your safety during free time is your responsibility. Always prioritize your well-being.

10. Liability

EIA ensures safety within program-related activities and venues. Participants are responsible for their safety during personal time and independent activities.

11. Conclusion

The safety protocol developed is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and enriching experience for all EIA participants. We encourage open communication and feedback to continually enhance our safety measures. Stay informed, stay safe, and let's work together towards a memorable and productive time at EIA.

Effective from: March 2024