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Global FAQs
- My boss is sending me on a business trip to Africa but I'm afraid to go because of the HIV/AIDS situation there. Am I justified?
There is no need for concern about a business trip to Africa. Keep in mind that HIV is transmitted only by exchange of body fluids during sexual intercourse, intravenous drug use, or from a mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breast-feeding.
- My business has offices overseas. What are the company's responsibilities for the workers to protect them from, educate them about, and provide treatment for HIV/AIDS?
Each company handles this differently depending on the company capabilities. It is important to educate the workers and managers about HIV/AIDS and how it is contracted, so that staff/workers will know they do not need to worry about contracting the virus at work. Workplace policies and programs are good ways of educating staff/workers. Treatment is more complicated and will depend a lot on the medical aid scheme your company provides. For more information, please contact the Business and Labor Resource Service at 877-242-9760.
- What are U.S. businesses doing about HIV/AIDS overseas?
Many U.S.-based multinationals are establishing workplace policies and programs for their staff/workers and management. They also may contribute to the Global Fund or participate in activities around corporate responsibility. Examples of such companies and their workplace programs include:
Ford Motor Company (of Southern Africa)
- Developed/produced HIV/AIDS awareness training materials, in support of a Workplace Program (September 1999)
- Appointed HIV/AIDS Program Managers and Peer Educators for ongoing employee awareness training and counseling
- Delivered HIV/AIDS awareness training for all Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa employees
- Promoted the alignment of benefit programs, offering substantial additional coverage when positive HIV/AIDS status is declared to medical aid schemes
- Established/facilitated HIV/AIDS support groups with initial focus on employees and their immediate families
- Provides educational materials at the workplace and during community events
Coca-Cola (Africa)
- Formed local AIDS committees
- Developed AIDS awareness and prevention materials
- Created peer counselor identification and training
- Implemented employee basic HIV/AIDS training
- Provides free testing and counseling on a confidential basis
General Motors
- Supported HIV/AIDS initiatives in Thailand, India, and China
- Developed confidential peer educator program
- Provides education, counseling, medical services, and treatment
For more information on global companies and their workplace programs, go to the Global Strategies for Global Companies section.
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