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!!!
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