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Travel_policiesA recent article published by the Society for Human Resource Management provides examples of how some companies concerned about potential dangers in the “shared economy” are putting out policies on using services like Uber or Lyft for rides or even Airbnb for accommodations.

While the article does outline some procedures that should be in place to vet these types of services and protect the safety of their employees, one has to wonder why these concerns are not expressed with black car limo services or even hotel chains. Of course, some companies specify preferred hotels, car services and even airlines, do they vet them for safety? Or, are they primarily recommending based upon pricing deals struck?

It seems the issue is around potential safety concerns that may occur if an Uber driver assaults a passenger (which is rare) or an accommodation does not meet certain fire regulations. Again, how would the employee know if a Marriott hotel had a lapse in their safety codes, or if a limo driver has a criminal record or if their airline pilot is sober?

And what protections does an Uber driver have against an unruly, intoxicated passenger?

As we move deeper in the gig economy, we should all be mindful that there are at least two sides to the equation. Those providing the intermediary platforms and the services for those platforms are trying to make our lives easier and more economical within a trusted environment. It’s certainly one of the goals of National Gig to provide that ability to have these types of conversations in a fair and equitable environment where any judging is done after all the facts are presented rather than basing them on assumptions.

For the complete article, click  Adapting Travel Policies for Sharing Economy