Environmental Sampling and Fieldwork

• Scientific work done outside the lab – on campus or off site• Field trip policies and releases apply•Additional precautions should match risks!!•Define Standard Operating Procedures•Select sampling sites carefully

Field trip participants

• Supervision necessary at all times, particularly for inexperienced participants

• Supervisors must be aware of their health and safety obligations

• Personal protective equipment should match exposures to the same chemicals in labs

• Participants should sign waivers acknowledging risks

Special Hazards

• Road and traffic hazards

• Physical hazards – cliffs and steep slopes, open water

• Biological hazards – venomous, lively or aggressive animals or dense vegetation

• Chemical hazards – chemicals used on site

• Environmental hazards – leave env. as you found it

Weather and Clothing

• Prepare for cold/inclement weather or for hot weather, depending on the season

• Be prepared to stop the activity of the weather turns bad

• Watch for symptoms of hypothermia/hyperthermia, etc.

Health and Safety

• Determine institutional policy on first aid

• Carry a first aid kit if institution approves

• Food prep should match established food guidelines

• Encourage participants to bring water

• All skin potentially in contact with water should be covered – use gloves and boots

• Near wastewater treatment plant – take extra precautions for aerosols

• Contact Wash. Department of Ecology for any special warnings about local waters and possible contaminated sediments

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/env-info.html

Safety in Soil and Water Sampling

Have fun!!!