Title: FIELD SAFETY OVERVIEW Branch of Regional Research, Central Region National Research Program, WRD
1FIELD SAFETY OVERVIEW Branch of Regional
Research, Central RegionNational Research
Program, WRD
- Edited by
- Michael M. Reddy and Charmaine D. Gunther
- See URL http//wwwrcolka.cr.usgs.gov/uo/safety/saf
ety1.html - for the latest updated safety information.
- 08/17/07 Version 2.0
- I certify that I have read this safety
presentation and understand the material within. - Employee _______________________Date___________
- Supervisor _____________________Date__________
_
2 General Information
- General Information OBJECTIVE To address topics
relevant to personal safety while performing
field and laboratory activities, with an emphasis
on BRRCR and Colorado Front Range fieldwork. - Refer to the WRD Safety page for the most
up-to-date safety information - http//1stop.usgs.gov/Safety
- Safety First, Every Job, Every Time is the
Safety motto for all Branch of Regional Research
personnel. - Note that USGS and DOI policies reflect
compliance with Department of Labor, OSHA, USEPA,
and US Department of Transportation regulations.
3 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Module 1 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety policies and regulations and requirements
for safety in field activities -
4 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- The National Field Manual is required reading
for WRD personnel involved in collection of
water-quality data, see http//water.usgs.gov/ow
q/FieldManual/Chap9/content.html - Field work requires an awareness of potential
hazards and knowledge of regulations and
procedures
5 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Working outdoors potentially exposes personnel to
numerous hazards, including - extreme or rapidly changing environmental
conditions and remote locations. - working with or near heavy equipment.
- direct and indirect contact with waterborne and
airborne chemicals and pathogens. - dangerous animals and poisonous plants
- Safety awareness is the first line of defense for
on-the-spot evaluations of situations that may
compromise your safety, so use common sense and
trust your instincts.
6 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- USGS and Federal Policies Manuals, Handbooks, and
Procedures - Series Safety Management, Part 485 Safety and
Occupational Health Program - http//elips.doi.gov/app_dm/index.cfm?fuseaction
home - U.S. Geological Survey Manual, SM 445-2-H,
Occupational Safety and Health Program
Requirements Handbook (December 2001) - http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb/445-2
-h.html
7 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Topic-Specific DOI and USGS publications (not
covered here) are available for - chemical hygiene plans
- hazard communication, handling of waste
materials, and hazardous waste sites - exposure to ionizing radiation
- blasting and firearms
- hearing conservation
- reporting accidents and unsafe conditions
8 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Job hazard analysis
- JHA components include
- the sequence of steps associated with an activity
- identification of hazards involved for each step
- determination of controls needed to eliminate or
reduce the hazard - See web site for more information
- http//1stop.usgs.gov/safety/topic/jha.shtml
9 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Personal protective equipment
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) is defined as
safety equipment for your skin, eyes, ears, face,
head, extremities, and respiration - (see U.S. Geological Survey Manual, SM 445-2-H,
Chapter 26, Personal Protective Equipment
http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb/445-2-
h/ch26.html and OSHA 29 CFR 1910, Subpart I) - The USGS is required to supply PPE, and you are
required to use it!
10 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Training
- Supervisors of field personnel must be aware of
safety training requirements and the
certification or recertification needed to
perform specific tasks. A master list of
training requirements is given at - http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb/445-2-
h/445-2-ha14-2.pdf
11 Module 1 Safety in Field Activities
- Examples of training
- Personnel who operate government-owned or leased
vehicles must be certified and periodically
recertified in defense driving. - Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other
first-aid certification and recertification are
mandatory for field personnel working in remote
locations. - Personnel who operate motor boats must take
motorboat operator certification training.
12 Module 2 Field Trip Preparations
- Module 2 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
field trip preparations, safety planning, and
emergency contacts - Basic preparations before every trip
- Use safety checklists when preparing for a field
trip and keep a field folder for each
surface-water and ground-water site. See web
site for safety checklists http//1stop.usgs.gov
/Safety/Topic/checklists/checklists_index.shtml
13 Module 2 Field Trip Preparations
- Contents of Field Folder should include
- site type (hazardous waste, confined space,
cableway, wading site, bridge site, boat site)
and site description - site location (include map, site sketch, and
description) - locations and phone numbers of nearby or nearest
emergency facilities - Additional information specific to the site might
include - if it is open to hunting, season dates
- appropriate clothing (such as orange safety
vests) - Hazardous animals or insects present Ticks,
wasp nests, bears seen in vicinity, etc.
14 Module 2 Field Trip Preparations
- Leave an itinerary at the office and a copy with
family or colleagues, including contact phone
numbers. - Schedule times to check in at work and with
family when field trips require overnight stays. - Follow the established schedule and notify all
concerned parties if your schedule changes. - Obtain communication equipment, such as a
cellular phone or two-way radio. The BRRCR has a
Satellite Phone available for use in remote
locations without cellular coverage.
15 Module 3 Transportation
- Module 3 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
transportation safety in field activities - Vehicles and Trailers
- Watercraft
- Aircraft
- other modes
16 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Road Vehicles and Trailers
- Operators should be familiar with the operating
system of the vehicle before they leave for the
field. - Test operation of the lights, locks, mirrors,
seat and shoulder belts, seat height adjustments,
headrests, and transmission systems. - Check tire pressure and tread wear.
- Conduct a visual under-carriage inspection.
17 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- MUSTS that apply to all USGS employees driving
government vehicles - Possess valid state/international licenses for
the class of vehicle being operated. - Take a course in driver safetythe current
requirement is to take the course every 3 years. - Occupants shall wear seat and shoulder belts
while the vehicle is in motion, and appropriate
personal protective equipment, such as helmets
and goggles, when operating vehicles such as All
Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) or snowmobiles. - Driver of a USGS vehicle shall not use a phone
while the vehicle is in motion.
18 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Inspect all vehicles before use.
- See web site for inspection checklist
- http//1stop.usgs.gov/Safety/Topic/checklists/chec
klists_index.shtml - Tie down or otherwise secure all cargo.
- You MUST wear a seat and shoulder belt.
- Obey all traffic regulations and operate your
vehicle in a safe manner. (NOTE the USGS does
not pay your traffic fines for violations!)
19 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Special considerations
- Towing a trailer requires additional training,
caution, and proficiency in driving. - Vehicles and trailers vary in maximum load
capacity. - Vehicles and trailers must be compatible with a
matching hitch ball and coupling, and matching
electrical connections for lights.
20 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Trailers are required to have standard safety
equipment such as safety chains (placed in an x
under the coupling), lights, brakes (if
applicable), and load-securing devices. - Be aware that air turbulence from passing
vehicles can cause your trailer to sway.
21 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Drive slower when towing a trailer.
- Disengage the vehicles automatic overdrive
gear option and Cruise Control when towing. - Maintain extra following and stopping distance
to allow for the increase load. - Loads must be balanced and not exceed the maximum
load capacity. - Never permit anyone to ride in or on trailers.
22 Module 3 Transportation (Vehicles and
trailers)
- Be aware of potentially dangerous driving
conditions found in the Colorado Front Range - Wet, icy, or snow-covered roads
- High wind velocity.
- Loose gravel roads.
- Glare from bright sunshine
- Off-road (4 wheel drive) driving conditions
- Poor visibility from dust storms, smoke, fog, or
heavy precipitation/blizzard conditions. - WHEN in DOUBT SLOW DOWN!
23 Module 3 Transportation
(Watercraft)
- Watercraft
- Boats are used extensively by USGS personnel for
water quality sampling in rivers and lakes. - All boats must carry equipment as required by the
U.S. Coast Guard. - You are required to follow U.S. Coast Guard
regulations for waterway safety and etiquette.
24 Module 3 Transportation
(Watercraft)
- WRD Memorandum No. 96-25 and the DOI Departmental
Manual 485 provide regulations for water craft
safety http//elips.doi.gov/app_DM/index.cfm?fuse
actiontableofcontent - See USGS web site for more information on water
craft safety http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/han
dbook/hb/445-2-h/ch31.html
25 Module 3 Transportation
(Aircraft)
- Aircraft
- Airplanes and helicopters are sometimes used for
sampling trips to remote areas. - Any field activity involving the use of aircraft
must be carefully planned and coordinated with
USGS safety officials and DOI Office of Aircraft
Services. - WRD Memorandum No. 95-49 provides an example of a
safety plan for aircraft use.
26 Module 3 Transportation
(other modes)
- Other Modes of Transportation
- Include snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, horses
or mules, and backpacking - For more information see WRD Memo 99.32 and WRD
Memo 00.11
27 Module 4 Surface-water
activities
- Module 4 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety concerns associated with surface-water
activities and related field studies - See WRD Memo 99.32 for safety policy related to
wading measurements http//1stop.usgs.gov/safety
/memos/ - When possible, BRRCR personnel are encouraged to
consult or engage experienced WRDWater Science
Center Hydrologic Technicians to assist with or
make streamflow measurments.
28 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (wading)
- Wading
- Examine the section of a stream or river you plan
to wade. - Check the field folder for information relating
to safety. - Do not attempt to wade a stream for which values
of depth multiplied by velocity equal or exceed
10 ft2/s. (Streams only 2 ft deep but with
velocities of 5 ft/s or more can be dangerous to
wade.)
29 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (wading)
- Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) during
ALL wading activities. - Approved PFDs for wading include the standard
vest type, and the self-inflating suspender vest
type. - The PFD must fit properly, be rated for your
weight, and be in good condition. - The PFD should be dried and properly stored
between trips.
30 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (wading)
- Hip boots and chest waders provide protection
from cold, pollutants, and underwater objects. - Be aware of the possibility of slipping and going
underwater (feet up, head down) while wearing
them. - Practice wearing hip boots and waders while sub-
merged in a controlled, group-training situation.
- Chest Waders with a strap or belt closure at the
top can provide a temporary air flotation
mechanism.
31 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (wading)
- Be aware of surrounding conditions. Watch for
debris floating downstream. - Beware of sand channels that can shift under
foot. - Watch the water level, especially if rising
rapidly. - When wading below a dam or control structure,
inform the gate operator before entering the
stream.
32 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(bridges)
- Working on Bridges Can be Very Dangerous.
Again, engage experienced WRD personnel if
possible. - For instructions on the preparation of a traffic
control plans for field operations from bridges
and along roadways see the U.S. Geological Survey
Manual, SM 445-2-H, Chapter 17, Work Zone Safety
http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb/445-2-
h/ch17.html - For every bridge site, develop and diagram a
detailed procedure that conforms to State and
Federal regulationskeep in field folder.
33 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(bridges)
- The bridge safety procedure includes plans for
warning cones and signs, lane blockage, and
traffic control. - Practice assembling and using the equipment
before starting field activities. - Make sure the equipment is operational before
leaving the office.
34 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(bridges)
- When using a bridge crane, keep a pair of
heavy-duty wire or bolt cutters readily available
for cutting the cable in case debris snags the
sounding line. - Be aware of boat traffic.
- The suspender type PFD is approved for bridge
work. - Workers involved in peripheral activities should
wear high-visibility vests with reflective tape. - A PFD must be worn when working over bridges.
35 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (boats)
- Working from Boats
- Before working from a boat, obtain the
appropriate training for the vessel being used. - Boats are to be inspected annually.
- A PFD must be worn at all times.
- If a vehicle is being used to trailer the boat to
the site, the vehicle and trailer are to be
included in the preliminary inspection. - Equip the boat with all USGS- and Coast
Guard-required equipment. - Keeping a waterproof bag on each boat stocked
with emergency items/supplies.
36 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (boats)
- All boat passengers should be informed of
emergency procedures and the location of
emergency equipment. - Boat operators in remote locations are required
to have current training in first aid and CPR. - They must also know how to use the type(s) of
fire extinguisher(s) on the watercraft.
37 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (boats)
- A navigation plan for each field trip must be
left with the supervisor or other designee. - The plan should include
- date and purpose of trip
- name(s) of operator(s) and name(s) of passengers
- destination and route to be taken
- time of departure and estimated time of return
- radio frequency or cell phone numbers
38 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (boats)
- Check weather conditions before departure.
- Each person on the boat must wear a Coast
Guard-approved PFD. - Inspect all PFDs for damage before and after each
use. Store PFDs properly and discard damaged
PFDs.
39 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(cableways)
- Working from Cableways
- Water-quality sampling from a cableway requires
extensive measures that are described in
Streamgaging Cableways (Wagner, 1991) and in WRD
Memorandum No. 91.42these guidelines must be
followed - http//1stop.usgs.gov/safety/memos/
- Become familiar with cableway procedures and
requirements and obtain necessary training. - Check the field folder for special considerations
pertaining to each cableway.
40 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(SCUBA)
- SCUBA Diving
- SCUBA diving to collect samples is permitted only
after every requirement of OSHA 29 CFR
1910.401.441, Subpart T, has been met. - Diving activities are regulated by the USGS
Diving Control Board and the Diving Safety
Officer.
41 Module 4 Surface-water activities
(SCUBA)
- Extensive training is required to be certified in
SCUBA diving and sufficient skill must be
demonstrated before diving is permitted for any
USGS activity. - If diving is necessary for sample collection, it
must be coordinated with USGS Diving Officer. - Guidance is provided in Department Manual 485,
chap. 27 http//elips.doi.gov/app_DM/index.cfm?fus
eactionsearchDM , and the USGS Diving Safety
Manual http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb
/445-2-h/ch28.html.
42 Module 4 Surface-water
activities (fishing)
- Electrofishing
- Electrofishing involves applying an electrical
charge in water to stun and capture fish. - Requirements for this procedure include
- Field teams consist of at least two people, one
of which will have been trained and certified in
a USGS-approved course in the safety and
technical procedures of electrofishing.
43 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Module 5 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety issues associated with ground-water
activities during field studies
44 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Well Sites
- When arriving at the site, use your senses!
- Do you see warning signs posted or animals
grazing? - hear gunshots?
- see exposed electrical connectors and wires?
- smell fumes?
45 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Well houses or shelters constructed over wells
are havens for bees, wasps, spiders, snakes, and
rodents. - Check your surroundings carefully for signs of
animals. - If you smell, hear, or see signs of animal
infestation, proceed only after taking necessary
precautions. - Before entering, the enclosure should be
ventilated, disinfected, and cleaned.
46 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Check the well house or shelter carefully for
chemical fumes and for faulty power systems. - Before putting your hand or feet into a confined
space, visually inspect the area. - Poorly ventilated shelters are especially
hazardous and can be classified as confined
spaces, which are defined and regulated by OSHA
and USGS policies.
47 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Confined spaces are discussed in detail in USGS
Handbook 445-2-H, chap. 40 http//www.usgs.gov/usg
s-manual/handbook/hb/445-2-h/ch40.html , and in
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146. - Use testing devices such as portable
photoionization detector (sniffer) if the site
has potential for chemical or radioactive
contamination. - Never turn on or remove a well-owners pump
without permission but you may turn off the
system for safety reasons.
48 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- Before leaving the well site, minimize any hazard
to yourself, others, and the environment. - Clean and decontaminate yourself and all sampling
and processing equipment. - Channel or contain purge and waste water to avoid
transforming the site into a slippery swamp. - Contain all trash and chemical wastes.
- Follow Federal, State, and local safety
regulations for handling and disposal of
contaminated waste materials.
49 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- USGS and OSHA have general safety requirements
for working around heavy machinery and power
supplies. - USGS Handbooks 445-2-H http//www.usgs.gov/usgs-m
anual/handbook/hb/445-2-h/ch37.html cover
electrical safety, lockout/tagout procedures, and
personal protective equipment.
50 Module 5 Ground-water
activities
- You are subject to all safety requirements when
working around well-drilling associated with a
drill rig. - Wear personal protective equipment (steel-toed
boots, hardhat, hearing protection, and a
respirator if necessary). - Communicate with the drilling crew and heed their
instructions on safety. - Be aware of overhead power lines that may come
into contact with the drill tower.
51 Module 6 Chemicals
- Module 6 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety issues associated with use of chemicals
during field activities
52 Module 6 Chemicals
- Use and Handling
- Safe use of chemicals, follow the guidelines
below, communicate hazards to all members of the
field team, use proper personal protective
equipment, and apply common sense when working
with dangerous substances. - A checklist for chemicals can be found at the
following web site - http//1stop.usgs.gov/Safety/Topic/checklists/che
cklists_index.shtml
53 Module 6 Chemicals
- Obtain information about the chemical or
compound. - Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) supply
material characteristics such as chemical
description, fire and explosion data, chemical
compatibility and reactivity, protection
precautions, and spill procedures. - Chemical safety information is available from
many Federal and private sources. - The Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of a given
chemical is listed by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1000,
subpart Z, and in the Pocket Guide to Chemical
Hazards.
54 Module 6 Chemicals
- DOI and USGS internal memorandums describe
chemical usage and handling policies of commonly
used chemicals. - DOI Departmental Manual 485, chap. 17, for
guidelines on chemical safety in laboratories. - USGS Handbook 445-2-H, chap. 21 for Industrial
Hygiene Laboratory Protection Program -
55 Module 6 Chemicals
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Wear protective clothing (gloves, glasses, lab
coat). - Use a respirator if required note that you must
be certified before using a respirator. - Select PPE appropriate to the chemical(s) to be
contacted. - PPE can be designed for specific chemicals.
56 Module 6 Chemicals
- Wear gloves that will provide adequate
protection. - Gloves become ineffective if they are dissolved
by the chemical you are using. - Vinyl gloves are use for handling inorganic acids
and bases, Latex gloves are used for handling
relatively mild organic solvents. - Avoid placing chemical containers where they
might be knocked over. - Carry an appropriate Spill Kit or disposal
container for the chemicals you are using.
57 Module 6 Chemicals
- Handle and mix chemicals and compounds
appropriately. - Open chemical containers slowly and carefully,
wearing proper PPE. - Allow hot containers to cool before opening.
- Open frozen or encrusted lids with caution.
- Open fused-glass ampules by breaking the ampule
at the base of neck (in a direction away from you
and others).
58 Module 6 Chemicals
- Transport
- USGS must follow applicable Federal, DOT, EPA,
and supplemental State guidelines when
transporting chemicals and chemical wastes. - According to these guidelines the USGS is exempt
from many industry handling and shipping
regulations and training requirements. - USGS generally only transports small quantities
of chemicals for use in field and
office-laboratory (Federal EPA and DOT
small-quantity exemption rules apply).
59 Module 6 Chemicals
- Check your States laws on intrastate transport
of small quantities of chemicals in a government
vehicle. - It is not necessary to placard your vehicle when
transporting small quantities of chemicals.
Placarding a vehicle informs enforcement and
emergency response personnel that the vehicle
contains large amounts of the placarded material. - First-response teams might not immediately
approach a wrecked vehicle that is placarded for
a highly dangerous or reactive material.
60 Module 6 Chemicals
- For safe containment and transport of chemicals
- Protect yourself and passengers in the vehicle by
stowing and securing chemicals away from the
passenger compartment and behind a safety screen
or barrier. - Stow compressed gas cylinders securely and in a
vertical position. - Never transport cylinders with regulators
attached or with safety caps missing. - When possible, transport chemicals in their
original DOT-approved shipping containers with
the package correctly sealed.
61 Module 6 Chemicals
- Carry spill kit(s) appropriate for the chemicals
being transported. - Label packages as to their contents, and remove
old, inappropriate labels from containers that
are being reused. - Keep a chemical inventory list in the glove box
or side door pocket of the vehicle. - Waste products should be transported in the same
safe and approved manner as other hazardous
materials.
62 Module 6 Chemicals
- Storage and Disposal
- Chemicals require strict storage procedures for
safety reasons. - Specific storage areas should be designated in
your vehicle and office laboratory. - Use approved chemical storage cabinets.
- Separate storage is needed for acids, corrosives,
and flammables. - High purity, laboratory-grade flammables should
be stored apart from other flammables, such as
gasoline and solvents.
63 Module 6 Chemicals
- Chemical and waste disposal requirements, and
exemptions, are regulated by EPA and supplemental
state guidelines must also be followedcontact
the BRRCR Safety Officer (currently Carlos
Arozerena at 303-236-3302) for details.
64 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Module 7 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety issues associated with sampling or contact
with contaminated water during field activities
65 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Contaminated Water
- Communicate known or suspected contamination to
all personnel who could come in contact with the
sample or source water. - Never drink sample water, no matter how pristine
the environment appears. For example, a clear
mountain stream or lake may contain Giardia
bacteria from beavers.
66 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Waterborne, disease-causing organisms (pathogens)
are found in nearly all surface-water systems
and occur in many ground-water systems. - Most pathogens generally originate from body
fluids and feces of animals and humans, although
some (Legionella, Pseudomonas aerogenosa,
Clostridia spp.) are normal environmental
inhabitants.
67 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Pathogens enter surface-water resources through
sewage discharge and spills, animal feedlot
operations, landfills, storm and agricultural
runoff and direct contact. - Microorganisms also are transported on small
particles such as dust or aerosols. - Pathogens enter ground water through infiltration
from septic tank effluent, leachate from fields
and ponds, and from faulty well seals and
casings. - Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogenic organisms
can occur in the most pristine environments.
68 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- To minimize exposures to and effects from
contaminated water - Receive required periodic (where appropriate)
inoculations for waterborne pathogens (typhoid,
tetanus, hepatitis, polio, and rabies). - USGS immunization program requires inoculations
for field personnel working around polluted
water.
69 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Contact the BRRCR Administrative Officer, BRRCR
Assistant Branch Chief, or your Supervisor about
receiving inoculations before you sample. - Wear rubber boots, coveralls or aprons, latex or
vinyl gloves, and splash protection. (Note The
proper way to dispose of contaminated gloves is
to first turn the gloves inside out while taking
them off.)
70 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Use personal protective equipment, possibly
including respiratory equipment (certification
required) when working in contaminated areas. - Pathogens can enter your body through many
opening such as your mouth, eyes, nose, cuts,
scrapes, or chapped skin.
71 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Avoid practices (such as mouth pipeting and
unnecessary handling of sharps) that may allow
ingestion of pathogens or other contaminants. - Never eat, drink or put items in your mouth while
sampling. - Do not store food or drink in sample coolers.
- Carry antibacterial soap and wash your hands
before leaving site and wash again after
unloading supplies.
72 Module 7 Contaminated
water
- Disinfect all contaminated surfaces as soon as
possible and handle bacteria plates carefully and
autoclave them before disposal. - Alert colleagues and laboratory if samples could
contain large concentrations of hazardous
materials. - Contagious/hazardous biological material should
be labeled with biohazard stickers.
73 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Module 8 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety issues associated with exposure to extreme
environmental conditions during field activities
74 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Temperature and Sun Exposure
- Prepare for extreme conditions that might be
experienced in your area. - Before leaving for the field, check the weather
forecast. - Comfort range for humans is between 60 to 90
degrees Fhypothermia and hyperthermia can occur
in temperatures outside this range
75 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Hypothermia is a condition of reduced body
temperature caused by exposure to cold, and
aggravated by wet clothes, wind, hunger, and
exhaustion
76 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Warning signals of hypothermia are uncontrollable
shivering, incoherence, listlessness, fumbling
hands, frequent stumbling, drowsiness, inability
to get up after resting. - Victims should be moved to a sheltered area,
remove/replace wet clothes, and provide external
warmth if possible.
77 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Hyperthermia is a condition of increased body
temperature caused by exposure to excessive heat. - Warning signals of hyperthermia are throbbing
pressure in the head, unsteadiness, dizziness,
nausea, dry skin, rapid pulse, and muscle pains
and spasms. - Treat immediatelyfirst aid involves cooling down
and rehydrating.
78 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- to prevent hyperthermia
- Drink water in moderate amounts on a scheduled
basis. - The normal body requirement for fluids in
temperate regions is 2 1/2 quarts per day desert
conditions require more fluid. - Avoid alcohol and caffeine (diuretics).
- Wear lightweight clothing and wide-brimmed hat.
- Schedule activities that require the most
exertion in early morning or late afternoon.
79 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Sun exposure can have painful and dangerous
short-term and long-term effects. - To prevent excessive sun exposure wear a
broad-brimmed hat, lightweight clothing, and
apply sunscreen to all exposed skin to avoid
burning and skin cancer. - Wear sunglasses with polarized lenses to protect
eyes, reduce glare, and improve vision,
especially when working on water or snow.
80 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
- Thunderstorms are often accompanied by high
winds, lighting, and hail, are often predicted by
weather forecasts - but also can move into an
area with almost no warning. Afternoon summer
thunderstorms are quite common in the Colorado
Front Range.
81 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- To protect yourself during thunderstorms seek
shelter inside a vehicle or building. - Keep away from open doors and windows, plugged in
appliances, and metal. - In case of a lightning strike, someone must be
able to begin revival techniques, such as CPR. - Put on rubber boots or rubber-soled shoes.
- Do not work on electrical lines, pipes,
cableways, or steel structures. - Do not use metal objects such as wading rods,
bridge cranes, and well-logging equipment.
82 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- If caught in the open, crouch down low, but do
not lie flat on the ground. - Avoid standing near isolated trees.
- Avoid working on streams and lakes.
- Seek lower elevations such as valleys or
canyonsavoid being on peak or ridges. - If you feel your hair standing on end and your
skin tingling, this is a sign that lightning
might be about to strikecrouch immediately (feet
together, hand on knees).
83 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Tornadoes sometimes accompany thunderstormsthey
are rapidly rotating columns of air that descend
from the clouds in a funnel formation. - Tornados occur fairly often in the high plains
area east of the Denver Front Range foothills. - Micro-burst downdrafts are localized high-wind
phenomena in mountainous areas that can have much
the same effect as a tornado.
84 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- To protect yourself during a tornado seek shelter
immediately if there is a sudden, violent change
in weather involving wind, rain, hail, or
funnel-shaped clouds. - Avoid occupying vehicles or mobile homes.
- If caught outside, find a ravine, ditch, or
culvert and lie flat (but watch out for flash
floods). - If inside, go to basement or lowest interior
reinforced part of the structure (closet or
bathroom) stay away from windows.
85 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Floods
- Rain can fall at a rate of several inches per
hour and rapidly create dangerous flash flood
conditions especially in the narrow canyons of
the Front Range foothills such as Bear Creek,
Boulder Creek, and Clear Creek.
86 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Weather forecasts are helpful in planning your
activities, but be aware of changing conditions. - Be aware of dry creekbeds that can become raging
rivers in a short period (plan your escape ahead
of time so you can act immediately).
87 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Earthquakes, Landslides, and Rockfalls
- Although earthquakes occur more frequently in
tectonically active areas, an earthquake can
occur anywhere and without warning.
88 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- The greatest danger in an earthquake is from
falling objects and collapsing buildings. - Take cover under a solid structure able to
withstand impacts from above. - If you are driving, slow down and pull over to
the side of the road. - Avoid overhead structures such as bridges and
signs.
89 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Landslides and Rock falls Small roadside
landslides and small to large rockfalls are
common along roads in mountainous areas of
Colorado. Fatal rockfalls have occurred along
I-70 near Georgetown and along Highway 6 in Clear
Creek Canyon near Golden. I-70 through Glenwood
Canyon has been closed due to large boulder falls
onto the highway. These events typically occur
during or follow periods of heavy rain. Be aware
of small rocks fallen onto the roadway they may
be indicators of larger things to come! Take the
Falling Rocks warning sign along a highway
seriously.
90 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Fire Forest fires are a common occurrence in
Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. - Fire can spread out of control rapidlycall 911
if you notice a brush or forest fire, or if your
own fire gets out of control. - Be aware of, and comply with, any burning bans in
effect for your field site. - Take care to properly extinguish any burning
materials and dispose of safely. - Remember You can help prevent Forest Fires!
91 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Snow and Ice
- Snow and ice are dynamic mediums that change
quickly in structure and strength. - Snow and ice can accumulate rapidly, hiding
hazards, and creating slippery conditions. - Heavy snowfall (white-outs) can be disorienting
and can produce avalanche conditions in steep
terrain.
92 Module 8 Environmental
conditions
- Wear layers of appropriate clothing and work in
teams. - Working on ice requires experience, training and
knowledge of the water body over which the ice
has formed. If possible, engage or consult
personnel familiar with such work. - When in Doubt, Dont Go Out (on the ice).
93 Module 9 Animals
- Module 9 OBJECTIVE To address topics related to
safety issues associated with animal hazards
during field activities - For guidelines on potentially dangerous animals,
see web site - http//water.usgs.gov/owq/FieldManual/Chap9/A9.9.
html - Before a field trip, find out which species
inhabit the area and how to deal with them. - Most animals will vigorously protect their young
and should not be approached or disturbed.
94 Module 9 Animals
- Arachnids and Insects
- Most common remedy for bites and stings involves
basic first aid, followed by professional medical
attention if symptoms warrant. - Persons with known allergic reactions to insects
should wear or carry on their person medical
alert identification, and carry sting kits for
use in emergencies.
95 Module 9 Animals
- Scorpions, spiders, and ticks
- Spiders, and ticks are commonly found in Colorado
and Rocky Mountain area. - Spiders and scorpions are known to inhabit
enclosed, dark spaces, for example - inside well
houses and streamgage shelters.
96 Module 9 Animals
- Scorpions are known to frequent the desert, but
are also found in more temperate areas. - They often blend in with the terrain.
- Stings often involve an encounter between a big
toe and a scorpion that has crawled into a shoe. - Check shoes and boots left in the field vehicle
before putting them on. - Beware of putting your hands and feet into small,
dark spaces.
97 Module 9 Animals
- Only a few spiders in North America bite people,
and the venom of most is harmless - exceptions
include the black widow and the brown recluse. - Black widow spider is common in Colorado often
found in wood piles and basement areas. - Brown Recluse spiders are found in much of
Colorado their bite can be serious.
98 Module 9 Animals
- Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa)
frequents areas of human habitation and prefers
dark spaces, such as equipment shelters, as well
as areas in the wild. - Be familiar with the area in which you are
working and take care when walking and when
reaching into small spaces. - See web site showing picture of spiders
- http//water.usgs.gov/owq/FieldManual/Chap9/A9.9.
html
99 Module 9 Animals
- Ticks are found nearly everywhere in North
America. - Transmitted diseases include Rocky Mountain
spotted fever and Lyme disease. - To reduce exposure, wear long pants, tuck the
pant legs into your socks. - Use a repellant containing DEET
(N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). - Check regularly for ticks - including neck,
scalp, and groin areas.
100 Module 9 Animals
- Bees and Wasps
- Bee stingers are equipped with barbs that should
be scraped off if a person is stung--using
forceps or tweezers to pull the stinger out can
force more venom into the wound. - Wasp stingers has no barb the venom is injected
and the stinger usually slides out. - Seek medical attention if symptoms warrant.
101 Module 9 Animals
- Snakes
- Only 10 percent of the approximately 3,000
species in the world are poisonous. - In the event of snakebite, take victim to nearest
medical facility as soon as possible. - Even if a person has been bitten by a
nonpoisonous snake it should be treated by
medical personnel (some people are allergic to
the foreign protein in snake saliva).
102 Module 9 Animals
- Common symptoms of poisonous snakebites from pit
vipers are - burning, fiery, stinging pain at the bite site
- swelling skin discoloration nausea and
vomiting a minty, metallic, rubbery taste in the
mouth sweating and chills - If pain does not get any worse and remains
localized, venom probably was not passed. - If the pain becomes severe, venom was probably
injected.
103 Module 9 Animals
- Common poisonous snakes are copperheads,
cottonmouths, water moccasins, coral snakes and
rattlesnakes. - See web site showing picture of poisonous snakes
- http//water.usgs.gov/owq/FieldManual/Chap9/A9.9.
html
104 Module 9 Animals
- Bears
- Bear behavior is unpredictableaccording to
Guidelines for Safe Geologic Field Work in Alaska
(U.S.G.S, May 1978). Bears fiercely defend any
carcasses and will often bury or partially cover
such prizes for later. - Bears can see almost as well as people, but trust
their noses much more than their eyes or ears. - Make frequent noise when traveling along trails
that bears might use.
105 Module 9 Animals
- Avoid carrion (dead and decaying animals or
fish), fresh kill, or gut piles. - Avoid berry patches, or other areas abundant with
plants that bears use for food. - Avoid willow and tall grass patches bears
sometimes use these area for daybeds.
106 Module 9 Animals
- Avoid areas with fresh bear tracks.
- Make noise or wear bells when moving so as not to
surprise bears. - Work in teams of two or larger.
- If you find yourself close to a bear, give the
bear all the room you can. - Let the bear know you are humantalk in a normal
voice and wave your arms.
107 Module 9 Animals
- DO NOT RUN! Bears will often make bluff charges
without making contact. - If a bear actually makes contact, surrender! Fall
to ground, curl up into a ball, and play dead.
Typically a bear will break off its attack once
it feels the threat has been eliminated.
However, if a BLACK Bear continues to attack,
FIGHT BACK.
108 Module 9 Animals
- Mountain Lions
- Mountain lions are a species of large cats found
in the North Americaprimary habitat is within
and west of the Rocky Mountains. Mountain Lions
have been increasingly encountered in the Front
Range foothills area of Colorado west of Denver.
109 Module 9 Animals
- They are active during the day and night
searching for food such as deer and smaller
animals. - Be alert to reports of mountain lion attacks or
sightings in your field site area. - Turning and running can evoke a predatory attack
response. - Try to appear as large as possible raise your
hands above your head holding a coat or other
object.
110 Module 9 Animals
- Rodents and other Small Mammals
- Rodents and other small mammals can be disease
carriers. - Known carriers of Hantavirus include the deer
mouse, pinon mouse, brush mouse, cotton rat, and
western chipmunk. - Hantavirus does not cause apparent illness in the
host, but infected individual sheds the virus in
saliva, urine, and feces for weeks.
111 Module 9 Animals
- Rabies infection is another hazard of contact
with small animals, especially skinks, raccoons,
foxes, coyotes, bats, cats and dogs. - Structures with heavy rodent infestation should
be approached with extreme caution and may
require special decontamination procedures by
trained safety personnel. - Do not attempt to remove or decontaminate a
rodent infested area without first being trained
in specific procedures and Do Not enter an
infested area with such decontamination done
first!
112 Module 9 Animals
- Domestic Animals
- Field work may involve working in areas where
cats, dogs, cows, horses, and other animals can
be carriers of disease. - Do not pet, feed, or have contact with these
animals. - Before entering private property, obtain
permission to enter.
113 Module 10
Plants
- Module 10 OBJECTIVE To address topics related
to safety issues associated with plant hazards
encountered during field activities. - For guidelines and pictures on poisonous plants
see web site - http//water.usgs.gov/owq/FieldManual/Chap9/A9.10
.html