Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Title
Fieldwork Safety
Reference Number
AR-RMD-HSMS37
DOCUMENT HISTORY
Issue
Date
0.1
Jan-06
1.0
March-06
2.0
Jan-07
Details
Draft for Review, Customisation and Adoption
Fieldwork Safety
Fieldwork Safety (review for new VC)
Author
Name: P.Varley
Reviewer
Name: HSPG
Authorised
by
Name: M. Thorne
Vice Chancellor
Issued by
Name: Risk Management
Department
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
Page 0 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Executive Summary
Fieldwork Safety
AR-RMD-HSMS37
This policy document has been developed to help protect the health and safety of staff and
students when undertaking fieldwork and covers all student day excursions, field trips or
other fieldwork.
It is the responsibility of the Faculty Deans and the Heads of Non teaching departmentss to
ensure that risk assessments (see AR-RMD-HSMS22) have been carried out for all activities
within their area that involve fieldwork, and that relevant staff and students have been
provided with appropriate information.
Originating Legislation:
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Management of Health and Safety Regulations 1999
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended 1991
Other relevant documents:
Health and Safety Management System
Reporting and Investigation of Accidents
Risk Assessment
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH)
First Aid
Road Safety
Manual Handling
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
AR-RMD-HSMS09
AR-RMD-HSMS22
AR-RMD-HSMS26
AR-RMD-HSMS28
AR-RMD-HSMS34
AR-RMD-HSMS35
Page 1 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Fieldwork Safety
Policy
Anglia Ruskin University is committed to ensuring that all its employees are
consistently provided with a level of competent Health and Safety management
appropriate to the degree of risk associated with their activities.
Anglia Ruskin University will ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the risks
to the Health and Safety of staff, students and visitors will be managed in compliance
with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Management of Health and
Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and other appropriate regulations and guidance.
To comply with the relevant legislation and guidance, Anglia Ruskin University will:







Appoint competent persons, within the Risk Management Department (RMD), to
assist Anglia Ruskin University in understanding, coming to terms with and
complying with the Regulations
Clearly define the role of all personnel in order to help them to effectively meet
their responsibilities within the University Health and Safety Management System
(HSMS)
Ensure that all staff are suitably trained to deal with the Health and Safety issues
relevant to their position
Provide suitable and sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision to
all relevant staff, students and visitors
Ensure effective liaison with local authorities and other external bodies where
appropriate
Ensure that Faculty Deans and Heads of Non teaching departmentss have made
suitable and sufficient written assessment of risks posed to the health, safety and
welfare of fieldwork participants and supervisors
Provide suitable and sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision to
fieldwork participants and supervisors, as per the Guidance for Fieldwork Safety
(Appendix 1)
Application
It is the policy of Anglia Ruskin University that its health and safety activities will be
based on the requirements identified by risk assessments, as per the HSMS chapter on
Risk Assessments (AR-RMD-HSMS22). This includes carrying out risk assessments
for fieldwork activities, whether in the UK or abroad. The assessment process will
evaluate the effectiveness of existing risk control measures and, where necessary,
require the identification and implementation of additional or alternative controls.
These, in turn, must be assessed in order to ensure that additional unacceptable risks
are not being introduced into Anglia Ruskin University’s activities.
This policy document applies to those in Managerial positions (i.e. Faculty Deans and
Heads of Non teaching departmentss and their Managers and Supervisors) as their
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
Page 2 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
duties include ensuring that risk assessments are carried out for all fieldwork activities
within their area of responsibility.
This policy document covers all student day excursions, field trips and fieldwork
(hereafter collectively known as fieldwork), whether in the UK or abroad, including:
 Any organised trip involving parties of students leaving the University campus
(e.g. museum visits, visits to other universities etc)
 Any student involved in outdoor project work away from the campus (e.g.
archaeological digs, social survey interviews, geological/biological survey/sample
collection work etc)
Work experience and similar activities controlled by other employers and voluntary
leisure activities are excluded.
Requirements and Responsibilities
1. The Vice Chancellor has overall responsibility for the establishment, ongoing
development, implementation, monitoring and review of the HSMS
2. The Health and Safety Policy Group (HSPG) have been delegated operational
responsibility for planning and guiding the ongoing development, implementation,
monitoring and review of the HSMS, including this procedure.
3. The Faculty Deans and Heads of Non teaching departmentss are responsible for:









The implementation of this procedure within their area of responsibility
Identifying the required level of general Health and Safety competency
required by their Managers
Ensuring that there are arrangements in place to provide appropriate
information to members of staff, students, visitors etc
Ensuring that suitable and sufficient risk assessments are carried out for all
fieldwork activities within their area(s) of responsibility, as per the Risk
Assessment chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS22) and the Guidance for
Fieldwork Safety (Appendix 1), with each assessment being assigned a unique
identification number and recorded on the Fieldwork Risk Assessment form
(Appendix 2)
Ensuring that a remedial action plan is developed, where the assessor
determines that the current control measures to be inadequate
Ensuring that those responsible for carrying out risk assessments have been
appropriately trained
Note: No person will be considered as competent to undertake risk
assessments unless they have been trained to do so. This can be arranged
through the RMD
Ensuring that the organisation of the fieldwork meets Faculty/Non teaching
departments safety criteria
Ensuring that, where necessary, statutory notifications are made (see Guidance
for Fieldwork Safety (Appendix 1)
Ensuring that the fieldwork and participants are covered by adequate insurance
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
Page 3 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department







The implementation of the Reporting and Investigation of Accidents policy
(AR-RMD-HSMS09) within their area of responsibility
The implementation of the Control of Substance Hazardous to Health
(CoSHH) policy (AR-RMD-HSMS26) within their area of responsibility
The implementation of the First Aid policy (AR-RMD-HSMS28) within their
area of responsibility
The implementation of the Road Safety policy (AR-RMD-HSMS34) within
their area of responsibility
The implementation of the Manual Handling policy (AR-RMD-HSMS35)
within their area of responsibility
Ensuring that all documents are subject to the requirements of the Control of
Health and Safety Documents chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS12)
Providing a report each semester to the HSPG, in order to aid their review of
the HSMS
Note: The Faculty Deans/Heads of Non teaching departmentss may delegate the
above tasks to specific Managers, within their area of authority, as appropriate.
4. All students and staff who attend/organise fieldwork are responsible for:

Regularly refreshing their knowledge of the Guidance for Fieldwork Safety
(Appendix 1)
 Complying with the requirements of the Reporting and Investigation of
Accidents policy (AR-RMD-HSMS09). That is, whenever a fieldwork
participant or supervisor is involved in an accident, no matter how minor, one
of the following forms must be completed, as appropriate:
 RMD/AR1 - Report of an Accident or Injury; or
 RMD/AR3 - Report of a Dangerous Occurrence
The form must be completed in full and forwarded to the RMD, and should be
followed by form RMD/AR2 - Initial Accident Investigation. Further details of
the accident reporting procedure can be found in the ‘Reporting and Investigation
of Accidents Policy’ (AR-RMD-HSMS09).
5. The RMD are responsible for:





Updating the Guidance for Fieldwork Safety (Appendix 1) as relevant and
appropriate
Providing support to all staff required to carry out risk assessments, if
requested and appropriate
Carrying out risk assessment training, if requested and appropriate
Monitoring the quality of individual assessments via a random sampling
process
Carrying out internal audits on compliance with all HSMS documents, as per
the document on Health and Safety Management System Audits (AR-RMDHSMS08)
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
Page 4 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
References
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Guidance on Safety in Fieldwork (USHA, September 2003)
Code of Practice for the Safety of Social Researchers (Social Research Association,
November 2000)
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue2.0
January 2007
Page 5 of 5
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Appendix 1
Guidance for Fieldwork Safety
The intention of this document is not to produce comprehensive guidance, but rather
to outline the necessary steps to be taken for the safe management of fieldwork
activities and to indicate sources of further information and assistance.
Insurance
All fieldwork participants must be adequately insured. Some eventualities (acts of
war, dangerous sports etc) may not be covered by standard policies so please check
with the Director of Corporate Services if you are unsure about insurance.
Fieldwork participants and supervisors should be informed of their insurance cover
provided by the University and should be advised to take out additional personal
insurance if deemed necessary.
Risk Assessments
All fieldwork activities should be the subject of suitable and sufficient risk
assessments prior to commencement, in order to identify all the foreseeable hazards
and to assess the actual risk that these hazards. Risk assessments should be carried
out in accordance with the requirements of Anglia Ruskin University’s Risk
Assessment policy (AR-RMD-HSMS22). In order to be ‘suitable and sufficient’ the
risk assessments must involve thorough and systematic consideration of all aspects of
the work and must:







Identify foreseeable significant risks
Be appropriate for the level of risk
Enable the assessor to decide on action to be taken and priorities to be established
Be compatible with the activities involved
Remain valid for the period of work
Reflect current knowledge and best practice of the activities, including specialist
equipment and training
Make due consideration of the environment and members of the public
Hazards to consider whilst carrying out risk assessments include, but are not confined
to:



Physical hazards e.g. cliffs, caves, mines, forests, mountains, marshes, quicksand,
quarries, roadside, extreme weather conditions, sun burn/heat stroke, dehydration,
tides and currents
Biological hazards e.g. venomous or aggressive animals, poisonous plants,
nuisance plants (e.g. stinging nettles), soil or micro-organisms, insects, ticks,
leeches
Chemical hazards e.g. pesticides, dusts, chemicals bought onto site (sample
reagent), contaminated land
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 1 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department




Man made hazards e.g. vehicles, mechanical or electrical equipment, diesel
generators, power lines and service pipelines, unsafe buildings, slurry and silage
pits, military activity, civil disorder
Personal safety and training e.g. lone-working, risk of attack, navigation (map and
compass), procedures for summoning assistance, first aid, specialist training
(boats, diving, tree climbing etc)
Hazards to the environment - waste minimisation and correct disposal, disturbance
of eco-systems, pollution
Other hazards e.g. manual handling, road safety, children or young persons
In addition to following the hierarch of control measures for risk assessments (see
Risk Assessment policy, AR-RMD-HSMS22), residual risk can be partially controlled
by ensuring that:













There are a suitable number of supervisors. Staffing should be adequate for the
size of the party e.g. one experienced staff member per 10 participants, minimum
of two experienced persons per group
Supervisors are competent in leading the party, adequately trained in the basic
work techniques, appreciate the hazards involved and have adequate first aid
training
At least one other member of staff is qualified to take over should the leader
become incapacitated
At least one other member of staff can take over driving duties if necessary
There is a base contact who has knowledge of:
– All work activities involved
– Itinerary and return times
– Participants and their details (address, next of kin etc)
– How the group may be contacted
– Passport and visa details
Participants are requested to inform the Fieldwork Leader of any disability or
medical condition that may pose extra risk during fieldwork, e.g. vertigo, epilepsy,
diabetes, asthma
Participants are instructed to bring with them the name and address of their GP
and their next of kin or emergency contact person
Participants are requested to inform the Fieldwork Leader of any special dietary
requirements
All participants and staff are adequately prepared (clothing, footwear, sun screen,
training etc)
Suitable lines of communication are available
If the work is in a remote or hazardous environment, a detailed and accurate
itinerary is logged with a suitable person or organisation (Police, Coast Guard,
Mountain Rescue etc)
Accidents are reported and investigated (as per Anglia Ruskin University’s policy
on the Reporting and Investigation of Accidents (AR-RMD-HSMS09)
Contingency plans for reasonably foreseeable emergencies are in place, e.g:
 Provision of adequate emergency equipment (first aid kits, fire fighting
equipment etc)
 Means of summoning assistance
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 2 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
 Evacuation procedures
 Liaison with Police and other emergency services (Paramedics, Coast Guard,
Mountain Rescue etc)
 Correct treatment of casualties and equipment (first aid, decontamination etc)
Hazardous Substances
The risk assessment process should take into account any hazardous substances that
are used during fieldwork. Where necessary, a CoSHH assessment must be
undertaken. Such assessments must be carried out in compliance with the Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS26).
In addition, consideration must be given to hazardous substances that might be
encountered during the fieldwork. Such risks must be assessed and controlled. They
include, but are not limited to:




Explosives
Chemicals
Biological hazards
Radioactive sources
Hazardous substances must be used by competent persons and handled, so far as is
reasonably practicable, with the same degree of care as in the laboratory and in
compliance with statutory requirements. They must be disposed of safely and in
accordance with environmental legislation.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Where a risk assessment highlights the need for PPE this must be adequate,
appropriate, checked regularly, maintained in good condition and worn by all. PPE
should, where practicable, comply with appropriate British, European or International
standards. The following may be considered:









Safety helmets
Eye/face protection
Ear defenders
Respiratory protection
Warm/weatherproof clothing
High visibility clothing
Aprons
Gloves
Foot protection
All PPE must be selected, issued, used and maintained in compliance with the
relevant chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS21).
Safe System of Work
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 3 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
In light of the results of the risk assessment(s), a safe system of work, including a
clear command structure, should be devised, discussed and agreed with the Faculty
Dean or Head of Non teaching departments. The safe system of work must be
communicated to, and followed by, all involved.
Environmental Considerations
Many types of fieldwork will take place in open country involving, for example, the
study of flora, fauna, soils or geological conditions. Under these circumstances, it is
the duty of the Fieldwork Leader to:




On public land, ensure that access is legal
On private land, arrange permission for access with the land owner
On Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), seek from the appropriate authority
(e.g. Countryside Commission) and, if necessary, a licence obtained
Be aware of the impact of work, either directly or indirectly, on local flora and
fauna
Supervision
It is important that there is a clear command structure within the group. Under some
circumstances, command may pass from one person to another, e.g. from the
Fieldwork Leader to a Boat Skipper, and all fieldworkers must be kept fully informed
of such occurrences.
Participants must be instructed on safety matters prior to the commencement of
fieldwork, preferably via printed documentation. The Fieldwork Leader should ensure
that the participants understand the salient points. It is the responsibility of the
participants to heed and observe any instruction given to them and to bring any
questions or problems to the attention of the Fieldwork Leader. Participants must be
warned not to become too engrossed in their tasks and to be alert to changing
conditions.
Supervision levels for fieldwork will vary – an inexperienced group of first year
students will require a higher level of supervision that a group of postgraduates.
Where appropriate, the Fieldwork Leader may appoint one or more supervisors to act
on their behalf, e.g. when the participants are split into sub-groups. It is the
responsibility of the Fieldwork Leader to ensure that the level of supervision is
adequate.
Three different levels of supervision can be recognised:



Fully supervised excursions
Expeditions
Lone working
Fully Supervised Excursions
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 4 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
These will normally be of short duration (a working day or less) and are usually
conducted in low hazard environments.
Safety instruction should be an integral part of the excursion and participants should
be made aware of any local rules applying to industrial or commercial sites.
Participants may be inexperienced and should not normally be allowed to work
independently. They must not be exposed intentionally to hazardous situations.
Consideration should be given to appropriate staff/student ratios, which may vary
according to the activities being carried out and the nature of the site being visited. As
a basic standard, the maximum number of participants involved in low risk activities
(e.g. specimen collection, surveying etc), in reasonably rugged countryside, in summer
should be 10 per experienced supervisor, with each party containing at least 2
experienced supervisors.
Maximum and minimum party sizes should be set bearing in mind the environment,
the activity undertaken and the logistics of foreseeable emergencies. Parties of 15 or
more participants may be difficult to manage in rugged country and a minimum of 4
people to a sub-group will mean that, should an accident or injury occur, one person
can stay with the casualty while two others go for help.
Expeditions
Expeditions may be prolonged and in environments which are remote and potentially
hazardous. Participants will normally be experienced and/or will have received
instruction in work techniques and safety procedures.
The Fieldwork Leader must be adequately trained in appropriate skills, which may
include survival, communication and navigational techniques. They should be aware
of local hazards and conditions and be familiar with particular precautions to be taken
where the terrain is particularly hazardous (e.g. glaciers, rock faces) or where
dangerous animals, diseases or substances may be present.
The Dean of Faculty/Head of Non teaching departments should be satisfied that the
Fieldwork Leader has the personal capability and competence to lead, especially under
adverse conditions. The authority and responsibilities of the Fieldwork Leader must be
clearly defined and understood by all participants and serious consideration should be
given to excluding people unable to accept such authority. Adequate deputising
arrangements should be made in case of incapacity or if the party splits up into smaller
sub-groups.
Lone Working
Lone working should be discouraged, so far as is reasonable practicable. However,
under certain circumstances it may not be reasonably practicable to avoid it.
Therefore lone working should only be sanctioned after a thorough risk assessment
has been undertaken, taking into account the activities involved, the location of the
site and the experience of the worker. As for all fieldwork, a safe system of work
must then be devised, including arrangements for communication. The lone worker
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 5 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
must be involved in both the risk assessment process and the development of the safe
system of work.
Lone working should not take place under certain circumstances, including, but not
limited to:




Confined spaces
Fumigation
On/near bodies of water
Diving operations
The lone worker must not embark on their fieldwork before informing their
supervisor, by phone if gong straight from home, of his/her:





Destination
Nature of work
Contact details
Emergency plans
Estimated return time
The lone worker must have means of summoning assistance in an emergency (e.g.
mobile phone) and check in with their supervisor at pre-determined intervals and
inform their supervisor of their safe return to campus/home. If contact is made
through an intermediary then the supervisor must ensure that these are reliable.
Training
Various skills may be required, depending on the type of fieldwork, and it is important
that participants and supervisors are adequately trained before, or during, the
fieldwork. Training requirements should be clearly specified in the risk assessment
and/or safe system of work. All staff engaged in trips to remote locations must be
trained in first aid and, if the fieldwork is particularly remote or long-term, there might
be a case for training all group members in first aid, survival, and rescue techniques.
Participants must receive adequate instruction from a competent person on the likely
health hazards associated with the work. Particular attention should be given to:






Physical hazards of the environment (hypothermia, frostbite, snow blindness,
dehydration, altitude sickness, nitrogen narcosis, sunburn etc)
Chemical hazards
Infection by pathogens (e.g. leptospirosis), dangerous animals and plants
Avoidance of gastro-intestinal disorders and food poisoning
Safe use of insect repellents
Basic personal hygiene and care of the feet
All participants in activities on or near water should be able to swim at least 50 metres
under the conditions expected and an appropriate level of physical fitness for the
activities to be undertaken should be attained.
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 6 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
The training of Fieldwork Leaders and supervisors is particularly important and for
some activities, formal qualifications may have to be sought in addition to those
relating to the work process. Specialist training may be required for certain activities,
including, but not limited to:








Using machinery/equipment (e.g. chain saws)
Boating
Defensive driving
Diving
Firearms
Ladders
Scaffolding
Tree climbing
Note: The distinction between information and training is significant and should not
be underestimated - for example, fieldwork involving mountain walking is potentially
very dangerous for the untrained, no matter how well informed they may be.
Conduct of Fieldwork
Expeditions on Foot










Itineraries must be planned carefully
Adequate time must be allowed to accomplish objectives
Fieldwork Leaders must exercise considerable vigilance, particularly if the terrain
is hostile or the participants are inexperienced
Great care must be taken when crossing dangerous terrain (ski slopes, glaciers,
crevasses, rivers, estuaries, mud flats etc)
A watch for stragglers should be kept and an experienced walker should be at the
rear of the party
Loads must be tailored to physical ability and walking pace matched to the
capabilities of the slowest walkers
Regular breaks should be taken
Walkers in remote areas should be alert to possible sudden weather changes and
must be adequately equipped.
If skis, snowshoes, crampons, climbing gear and other aids are necessary,
participants must be adequately trained in their use
People walking roads at night should wear light or reflective clothing and a rear
light should be carried
Transport (Land, Water and Air)
Control of transport hazards is an integral part of risk assessment and must include
vehicle suitability, prevention of driver fatigue and provision of adequate rest periods.
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 7 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Vehicles, boats and aircraft play an essential part in many expeditions, particularly in
remote areas, and it is essential that they are suitable for the required use and in a
travel-worthy condition.
The Fieldwork Leader should ensure that:
 There is adequate backup transport available
 Sufficient spare parts are carried to meet foreseeable emergencies
 Transport is maintained in a safe state and good working order by competent
persons
 Lights, indicators, brakes, tyres etc are maintained in good working order
 Drivers, skippers and pilots are in a fit physical state and possess appropriate
licences
 Transport is not used in a reckless, careless or dangerous manner
 Navigational rules, regulations and conventions are observed (e.g. speed limits,
seat belts, the Highway Code, local boating safety regulations etc)
 Loads are not excessive, dangerously distributed or improperly secured
 Adequate rest breaks are taken during journeys
 Animals used for transport are cared for humanely and are handled/ridden by
people with adequate experience
Equipment
Fieldwork equipment must:








Be suitable for the intended use
Be suitable for the conditions (waterproof, spark proof etc)
Comply with any relevant British, European or International standards
Be maintained in a safe state and in good working order by competent persons (if
equipment is hired, written confirmation must be sought from the suppliers)
Be checked and tested before use and at appropriate intervals during use
Be repaired or taken out of service if found to be defective
Be operated safely by competent persons
Duplicated and transported separately, where practicable, if essential for survival
Reduced voltage (e.g. 11Ovolts) should be used out of doors with leakage/residual
current protection where practicable.
Firearms must only be used by competent persons, stored safely and securely and
appropriate licences obtained.
Excavations, Bore-holes etc





Excavations must be carefully planned and undertaken by competent persons
They must be protected against collapse and inspected regularly
Precautions must be taken to protect against toxic and flammable gases and
oxygen depletion
Hazards from underground services and spoil heaps must be avoided
Sites must be adequately cordoned off and appropriate warning signs displayed
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 8 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department

Participants and visitors must be supplied with adequate safety information and
protective clothing
 Relevant legislation must be complied with (e.g. Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations 1994
Manual and Mechanical Handling
Activities involving manual handling must only be carried out in compliance with the
Manual Handling Operations (MHO) chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS35).
Operators of cranes, hoists etc. must be trained in correct lifting and slinging
techniques. Lifting equipment must be suitable for use and maintained in a safe state
and in good working order by competent persons. Safe working loads must not be
exceeded.
Security
Theft, vandalism and violent crime can be a problem in both remote and urban areas.
Hazards to fieldworkers, particularly lone workers and those who may be especially
vulnerable on account of their age, sex or physical condition, must be considered
carefully and appropriate precautions taken. Local crime rates, social and political
factors should be considered and police, social workers etc consulted if necessary.
Preventative measures could include the following:






Anti-theft devices and alarms
Personal alarms (preferably linked to a central control system)
Communication systems (mobile phones, radios)
Monitoring and reporting systems
Training in interpersonal communication skills
Security locks on vehicles, buildings, stores etc
Catering





Fieldwork Leaders should aim to provide a wholesome, balanced and varied diet
Special dietary needs must be taken into account
Local foods should be selected carefully and high-risk foods avoided
Food should be stored so as to minimise risk of spoilage or contamination
Food should be prepared in as hygienic a manner as possible:
– Preparation areas must be kept as clean as possible
– Prepared foods should be kept covered
– Cold food should be served at below 5C
– Hot food should be piping hot (above 70C)
– An adequate supply of potable water must be available. If necessary, water
should be sterilised by boiling, filtration or the use of tablets
– Where possible, cooks should have a food hygiene qualification
– People with skin, nose, throat or bowel infections should not prepare food.
Leisure Time
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 9 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
The potential for accidents to occur during leisure time is considerable. Participants
may wander off without providing information about where they are going or engage
in dangerous activities. Any unsociable or offensive behaviour must be dealt with
appropriately.
Participants in fieldwork must be made aware of the standards of behaviour expected
of them and issued with a written Code of Behaviour, endorsed by the Faculty Dean or
Head of Non teaching departments, before the fieldwork begins reminding them of
their responsibilities to the University, staff and fellow participants. It should also be
pointed out that unacceptable behaviour might mean offenders being excluded from
future trips which could have a bearing on their final qualification. Warnings about
behaviour and dangerous activities should be recorded (i.e. written warnings or
witnessed verbal warnings).
Dealing with the Press and the Public
Any queries addressed to fieldtrip participants or supervisors must be referred to the
Fieldwork Leader in order to avoid distortion and/or incorrect reporting.
Health Matters and Emergency Action
Physical Fitness
The Fieldwork Leader must give careful consideration to the maintenance of the
health of participants and, where necessary, expert advice should be sought.
Activities may be much more strenuous than the normal work of the participants and
Fieldwork Leaders should ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, participants
are sufficiently fit. If necessary, they should be encouraged to improve their level of
fitness.
Disabled Persons
Every effort should be made to ensure that disabled persons have access to fieldwork
and are able to participate fully in them. This may include the provision of special
safety arrangements.
Exclusions on Health and Safety Grounds
There may be some circumstances where, after an individual and specific risk
assessment has been carried out, persons with certain disabilities or illnesses may have
to be excluded from some fieldwork activities on health and safety grounds.
Health Surveillance
The Fieldwork Leader must consider the need for health surveillance and/or
immunisation. The Department of Health issues guidance on the requirements for
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 10 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
various countries and expert medical advice on the need for immunisation should be
sought where necessary.
Immunisation should also be given if the fieldwork could result in exposure to certain
pathogenic organisms and immunisation against tetanus is recommended for all
fieldworkers. A record of immunisations must be kept.
Dental Health
Fieldwork participants are strongly advised to have a dental check up before
undertaking extended fieldwork visits. For visits to very cold climates, or to areas
with a high incidence of HIV infection, leaders may wish to make such a check up
obligatory.
Injury and illness in the Field
Prompt medical attention must be sought in the event of an illness or injury as
relatively trivial injuries may become serious if not treated quickly. The Fieldwork
Leader should be alert for signs of illness, injury or fatigue in the party and should
know where the nearest health care facilities are. Adequate medical insurance should
be arranged prior to the fieldwork and, for visits within the European Community,
fieldworkers should carry a certificate of health insurance (Form E111).
Any incident resulting in injury should be dealt with in compliance with the Reporting
and Investigation of Accidents chapter of the HSMS (AR-RMD-HSMS09).
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 11 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Bibliography
Acts of Parliament
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HMSO)
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (HMSO)
Environmental Protection Act 1990 (HMSO)
Regulations (All available from HMSO)
Construction (General Provisions) Regulations 1961 SI 1580 (as amended)
Construction (Lifting Operations) Regulations 1961 SI 1581 (as amended)
Food Hygiene (General) Regulations
Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations
Safety Signs Regulations
Diving Operations at Work Regulations 1981 SI 399 (amended by SI 19901996 and SI
19921608)
Health and Safety (First-aid) Regulations
Ionising Radiations Regulations
Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
Electricity at Work Regulations
Noise at Work Regulations
Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Container Regulations
Construction (Head Protection) Regulations
Control of Explosives Regulations
Simple Pressure Vessels (Safety) Regulations
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations
The Management of Health and Safety at Work (Amendment) Regulations
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations
Manual Handling Operations Regulations
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 12 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Government Publications - (from HSE Books)
5 Steps to Risk Assessment IND (G) 163L (1994)
Chainsaws (1994) HSE Note AS20 (Rev)
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations Approved Codes of Practice
(General CoSHH ACOP, Carcinogens ACOP and Biological Agents ACOP) (ref 15)
Farm Forestry Operations (1992) HSE Note AS 15
General Access Scaffolds (1982) HSE Note GS 15
Guns (1994) HSE Note AS7 (Rev)
Maintaining Portable and Transportable Electrical Equipment HS (G) 107 (1994)
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Manual Handling Personal Protective Equipment at Work - Guidance on Regulations
Safe use of ladders, Step Ladders and Trestles (1984) HSE Note GS 31
The Safe Use of Portable Electrical Apparatus (1990) HSE Note PM 32 (Revised)
Tower Scaffolds (1987) HSE Note GS 42
Work Equipment - Guidance on Regulations (1998)
Government Publications - (from other sources)
The Highway Code (updated regularly) Department of Transport (HMSO)
Safety in Outdoor Education (1989) Department of Education (HMSO)
Drivers' Hours and Tachograph Rules for Road Passenger Vehicles in the UK and
Europe PSV375 (1994) Department of Transport
The Traveller's Guide to Health (updated annually) Department of Health
Other References
Boating Safety - Inland Waters (1994) Royal Yachting Association (The RYA also
supplies other advisory literature and training videos)
Code of Practice for University Health and Safety Management (1995) CVCP
Croner's Health and Safety at Work (continuously updated) (Croner Publications)
Cruising Yacht Safety (1994) Royal Yachting Association
Expedition Planners' Handbook and Directory (199314) Winser, S and McWilliam, N
(Eds) Royal Geographical Society (The RGS also publish a range of other advisory
literature on expedition safety.)
First-aid Manual (1992) Marsden, A K, Moffat, C and Scott, R (Dorling Kindersley)
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 13 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Guidance Note on Fieldwork (1993) Natural Environmental Research Council
Guidance Note on Tree Climbing (1989) National Environmental Research Council
Health and Safety in Field Archaeology (1993) Standing Conference of
Archaeological Unit Managers
Kurafid (1988) Milne, A H (Ed), British Antarctic Survey
Management of Wilderness and Environmental Emergencies (1989) Aurbach P S and
Geehr E C (Mosby)
Mountain craft and Leadership (1984) Langmuir, E (Scottish Sports Council and
Mountain Walking Leader Training Board)
Riding and Road craft (1993) British Horse Society
Safe Diving Practices (1993) National Diving Committee of the British Sub-Aqua
Club (who also publish a variety of other advisory literature)
Safety in Biological Fieldwork (1990) Institute of Biology Safety in Universities
Notes for Guidance - Part 2.1 lasers (Revised Edition 1992)
Safety on Mountains (1988) Barry, J and Jepson, T (British Mountaineering Council)
Saving life (1989) Royal Life Saving Association
Skilegs (1989) Ski Club of Great Britain
Survival in Cold Water (1993) Amateur Swimming Association
The Canoe Handbook (1993) British Canoe Union
The SAS Survival Handbook (1986) Wisernan, J (Collins/Harvill)
Travellers' Health - How to Stay Healthy Abroad (1992) Dawood R (Oxford
University Press)
Underwater Association Code of Practice for Scientific Diving (4th Edn 1989) Natural
Environment Research Council
World Travel Guide (1994) Columbus Press Ltd
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 14 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Useful Addresses
Amateur Swimming Association, Harold Fern House, Derby Square, Loughborough,
Leics LE1 10AL, 01509-230431
British Canoe Union, John Dudderidge House, Adbolton Lane, West Bridgeford,
Notts NG3 5AS, 0115 98211 0
British Horse Society, British Equestrian Centre, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth, Warks CV8
21R, 01203-696697
British Red Cross Commercial Training Centre London, 163 Eversholt Street, London
NW1 1 BU, 0171-388-8777
British Sub-Aqua Club, Telford's Quay, Ellesmere Port, South Wirral, Cheshire L65
4FY, 0151-357-1951
British Mountaineering Council, Crawford House, Precinct Centre, Booth Street East,
Manchester M13 9RZ, 0161-273-5835
Central Council for Physical Recreation, Francis House, Francis Street, London SW1
P 1 DE, 01 71-828-3163
Countryside Commission, John Dower House, Crescent Place, Cheltenham,
Gloucester G150 3RA, 01242-521381
Cyngor Cefn Gwiad Cymru (Countryside Council for Wales), Plas Penrhos, Fford
Penrhos, Bangor, Gwynedd, 1157 2LO, 01248-370444
Department of the Environment, 2 Marsham Street, London 276-0900
Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland, P Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3SW,
01232-230560
Forestry Commission, 231 Corstophine Road, Edinburgh EH12 7AT, 0131-334- 0303
Houseway Ltd, Winchester, Hampshire, 01962 881051 (Sterile packs)
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, 3-10 Whitehall Place, London SW1A
2HH, 0171-270-3000
Mountain leadership Training Board, Crawford House, Precinct Centre, Booth Street
East, Manchester M13 9RZ, 0161-273-5835
National Rivers Authority, Eastbury House, 30-34 Albert Embankment, London SE1
7TL, 0171-820-0101
Nature Conservancy Council for England (English Nature), Northminster House,
Peterborough, PE1 lUA, 01733-340345
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 15 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Royal Geographical Society, Kensington Grove, London SW7 2ET, 0171-589- 5466
Royal life Saving Society, Mountbatton House, Alcester Road, Studley, Warks,
01527-853943
Royal Yachting Association, RYA House, Romsey Road, Eastleigh, Hants, SOS 4YA,
01703-629962
St John Ambulance, 1 Grosvenor Crescent, London SW1X 9AF 0171-235-3793
Scottish Natural Heritage, 12 Hope Terrace, Edinburgh, EH9 2AS, 0131- 447- 4784
Ski Club of Great Britain, 118 Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AF, 0171-245-1033
Sources:
Universities Safety and Health Association ‘Guidance on Safety in Fieldwork’, 2003
Social Research Association ‘Code of Practice for the Safety of Social Researchers’,
November 2000
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 1 Page 16 of 16
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Appendix 2
Fieldwork Risk Assessment Form
RMD/FWRA1
(Refer to Guidance for Fieldwork Safety before completing this form)
Fieldwork Leader
Name
Position
Faculty/CU
Contact No.
Mobile No.
E-mail
Residential Accommodation
Organisation
Contact Name
Address
Contact No.
Duration of Stay:
Location(s) of Work
Brief Description Work
Hazard Identification: Identify and specify all the hazards, evaluate the risks (low /
medium / high) and describe all necessary control measures. Please refer to the Risk
Assessment chapter of the HSMS for more information (AR-RMD-HSMS22)
Hazard (s)
Risk
Control Measures
L/M/H
Physical Hazards:













Cliffs
Caves
Mines/quarries
Forests
Mountains
Marshes/quicksand
Quarries
Roadside
Extreme weather
conditions
Sun burn/heat stroke,
Dehydration
Tides and current
Other (please specify):
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 2 Page 1 of 4
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Biological Hazards:






Venomous or aggressive
animals
Poisonous plants
Nuisance plants (e.g.
stinging nettles)
Soil or micro-organisms
Insects, ticks, leeches
Other (please specify):
Chemical Hazards




Pesticides
Dusts
Chemicals bought onto site
(sample reagents,
contaminated land etc)
Other (please specify):
Man-made hazards









Vehicles
Mechanical or electrical
equipment
Diesel generators
Power lines and service
pipelines
Unsafe buildings
Slurry and silage pits
Military activity
Civil disorder
Other (please specify):
Personal Safety







Lone working
Risk of attack
Navigation (map and
compass)
Procedures for summoning
assistance
First aid
Specialist training (boats,
diving, tree climbing etc)
Other (please specify):
Environmental impact



Waste minimisation and
correct disposal
Disturbance of eco-systems
Pollution
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Appendix 2 Page 2 of 4
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department

Other (please specify):
Other hazards




Manual handling
Road safety
Children or young persons
Other (please specify):
*Continue on separate sheet if necessary
Emergency Procedures:
Please specify arrangements for first aid, special emergency procedures, survival aids, communication,
etc
Additional Information:
Please identify any additional information relevant to the fieldwork activity, including supervision,
training requirements, information, specialist equipment or clothing, inoculations, etc
Checklist:
Comments:
Has necessary training and information been
given?
Is there adequate provision for those with
health problems or disabilities?
Is there adequate First Aid provision?
Is there suitable supervision (staff to student
ratio)?
Is permission required to work on site?
Are there suitable travel arrangements and
licensed drivers?
Is adequate insurance cover in place?
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Appendix 2 Page 3 of 4
Anglia Ruskin University
Risk Management Department
Have all participants submitted next of kin
information to Fieldwork Leader
Have route notification schedules etc been provided
to Police or other emergency services?
Assessor
Agreed
(Dean/Head)
Name
Position
Signed
Name
Position
Signed
AR-RMD-HSMS37/Issue 2.0
January 2007
Y/N
Y/N
Date
Date
Appendix 2 Page 4 of 4