Field Safety

Do researchers conduct Field Research on or near water (oceans, lakes, streams, wetlands), on frozen waterways or using boats?

_____ Yes _____ No (If yes, answer the sub questions)

_____ Personal Flotation Devices are worn when working on lakes, ponds, fast moving streams, or other areas where drowning is possible.
_____ All boats are equipped to meet local, State, and Federal rules and regulations.
_____ When using boats, the total weight of the passengers, equipment, and other
gear does not exceed what is stated on the boat's capacity plate.
_____ Researchers working on ice-covered bodies of water have received
appropriate instruction and training.
_____ All snorkeling and SCUBA diving operations have been approved by
Environmental Health and Safety.

Do researchers conduct any off-campus, outdoor field research, including in forests, fields, wetlands, waterways, within traffic zones, urban locations or archaeological sites?

_____ Yes _____ No (If yes,answer the sub questions)

_____ Researchers have consulted Field Safety information posted on the EHS
website
_____ A hazard/risk assessment has been conducted to identify the potential risks
associated with field operations. Methods to minimize those risks have been
implemented.
_____ There are established check-in and check-out procedures for tracking who is
in the field and who has returned.
_____ Appropriate two-way communication devices such as radios, cell phones, or
SPOT transmitters are carried in the field.
_____ The implementation of a "buddy" system has been evaluated. If working
alone, provisions for regularly checking in with a responsible adult have been
established.
_____ An appropriate first aid kit is carried in the field. Wilderness researchers have
received appropriate advanced first aid training.
_____ Researchers have received appropriate training on how to recognize, protect
themselves from, and respond to, temperature-related illnesses (hypo- and
hyperthermia).
_____ All researchers can demonstrate vehicle-specific competency before,
operating: vehicles with trailers, vehicles off-road, ATV/UTVs, tractors,
snowmobiles, or other specialty equipment. Operators follow all safety
protocols recommended by the manufacturer (seat belt use, use of a helmet,
speed limits, passenger limits, terrain limits, etc.).
_____ Researchers have addressed safely transporting, using, and disposing of
chemicals. A spill response plan has been developed. Chemical first aid
procedures have been addressed.
_____ All researchers have been trained for the specific hand or power equipment
they are operating. Appropriate PPE is provided and worn.
_____ High visibility clothing is worn in traffic zones, along highways, and when
working around heavy equipment.
_____ All appropriate permits and permissions have been obtained to access and
conduct research at the site. All fieldwork involving vertebrate animals has an
approved and active IACUC protocol.