HS019
Factors to consider in Fieldwork Risk
Management
The purpose of this checklist is to assist with the Fieldwork Risk Assessment. Any item which is
identified as relevant in this checklist needs to be included in HS017 Risk Management Form and
appropriate controls assigned. (Reference document: HS406 Fieldwork Safety Guidelines)
Preparation for the Field Trip and the Journey
 Remote location/distance
Manual Handling
 Vehicle fit for purpose
Driving at dusk/night
 Working alone
Fatigue
 Electrical equipment (testing & tagging,
Weather
RCD protection)
On site – Project or Experiment
 Contact with sharp objects
Plant/Equipment (safe to use, people
trained and competent, Safe Work
Procedures)
 All chemicals in use identified
Manual Handling
 Current Safety Data Sheet for any
Noise
chemicals
 Safe Work Procedures for chemical use
Breakages/Sharps
 Spillage/Splash
Biological Hazards
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Electrical/High Voltage
Other Hazards of the working environment in the field
 Hail/Severe Storm
Unstable slopes
 Lightning
Falls from Height
 Encounter with violent person
Cliffs or crevices
 Aggressive animals
Concealed holes
 Bites (ticks, leeches, jellyfish)
Slippery surfaces
 Animal attacks (kangaroos, dingos)
Soft Sediments
 Allergies to plants
Moving/Falling Objects
 Allergies to animals
Hot Environment/UV
 River or Stream crossing
Dehydration
 Wave action
Cold Environment
 Contaminated waters
Frost bite
 Strong currents surges
Windburn
 Airborne objects
Rainfall
Risk Controls Measures
 Safety goggles/glasses/faceshield
Mobile Phone
 Hard hat
Other communication devices
 Hearing Protection
Navigation device
 Dust mask/respirator
Buddy System
 Gloves
Details of notification
 Hat
Reconnaissance
 Sunscreen
Repair unsafe devices
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Factors to Consider in Fieldwork Risk Management
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Current Version: 1.1, 22/04/2013
Remove Ignition Sources
Work in pairs/groups
Use warning signs/barricades
Extra lighting
Adequate drinking water
Appropriate and Protective Clothing
Protective footwear
Portable RCD
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Insect repellent
Spill kit
First aid response
Emergency details
Training
Licences (car/boat/SCUBA)
Monitoring weather reports
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Factors to Consider in Fieldwork Risk Management
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Current Version: 1.1, 22/04/2013