FIELD SAFETY OVERVIEW Branch of Regional Research, Central Region National Research Program, WRD

1
FIELD 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__________
  _

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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!)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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