Fostering Safe Experiences in the Field

Create your Field Safety Plan today
Create Plan

Welcome to Field Safety

 

Field - Includes any location outside of USU main and statewide campuses, extension offices or USU owned or operated office and classroom buildings.
             Field may be any farm, agricultural ground, natural environment or location outside of university property and buildings.
Fieldwork - Any university activity performed in the field. 
             Fieldwork may be any university-related research, project, teaching, field trip, work or activity that is performed in the field for university purposes. 
Field Research - Any research activity that is physically carried out in the field. 
             Field research may include making observations, collecting samples or gathering data in the field for university purposes. 

Resources

Field Safety Considerations

1

BEFORE YOU GO

  1. Consider what immunizations/prophylaxis or medical evaluations are needed. If applicable, schedule appointments at least 4-6 weeks prior to travel.
  2. Develop a Field Safety Plan (FSP).
  3. Complete trainings:
    1. Best practice is to have minimum of 2 people trained to render first aid (in case the person trained needs the help).
    2. Other respective trainings for associated risks and research – or field – specific hazards.
  4. Understand insurance and what to do in case of an emergency in the field.
  5. Review the FSP and pay attention to the identified risks. Understand the risks and how to avoid or best control them (all mitigation or control measures). 
  6. Students and volunteers should sign a waiver.
2

WHILE YOU ARE THERE

  1. Carry a reliable communication device. Ensure that all participants have access.
  2. Best practice is to never go alone.
  3. Remember the risks and mitigation or control measures.
  4. Practice situational – and 360° awareness.
  5. Support each others feelings. Normalize discomfort with common interferences. 
  6. Encourage each other to speak up and ask questions.
  7. Remember your training.
  8. Wear applicable PPE.
  9. Stick to the plan.
  10. If you see something unsafe, say something.
  11. Have one person's primary role be safety eyes. They watch for safety hazards or situations to arise while the group engages in the field activities.
  12. In the event of an no-go situation, cease all operations, convene to reassess, and carefully reconsider the associated risks.
3

ONCE YOU RETURN

  1. Debrief as a group. 
  2. Don’t hesitate to reveal feelings about the field.
  3. Talk about hazards identified or questions that come up. You are not alone.
  4. Openly identify the overall quality of your field experience.