Field & Lab Safety
Prepare for field research
Safe conduct in the field is absolutely critical for our work, especially the safety and well-being of the field team. Some agencies (such as the Dept. of Homeland Security) have implemented a no-tolerance policy with respect to field safety violations that can result in shutdown of all projects across the university if field safety violations are found to have occurred in a single instance.
Field trip leader preparation
- File a UAF Field Emergency Plan
- Ensure that all members of your field party have reviewed all documents related to field safety, including the Field Code of Conduct, Remote Travel Form, and Remote Travel Plan Guide
- Complete a Job Hazard Analysis to help determine required safety equipment, training, or other items needed to ensure team safety
In addition to the basic safety training required by all UAF employees, you may require additional training based on the location or nature of your research. Learn more about planning for field research, including forms and training opportunities.
If you are sending students into field research settings that are not under IARC/UAF leadership (i.e., where students would not be part of the filing and sharing of a code of conduct document) then you are responsible for following the guidelines in the Title IX Reference Guide Packet for Student Placement.
Field team preparation
- Provide information to field trip leader on emergency contacts and other information
- Review field emergency plan and IARC field code of conduct
- Take relevant training, such as safe use of power tools
Safely handle and ship hazardous materials
A variety of hazardous materials (hazmat) are used in research, including chemicals, battery-powered equipment, and gas-powered equipment.
The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates transport of hazmat. Proper transportation requires training, proper packaging, and sometimes paperwork. Failure to comply with USDOT regulations can result in fines and/or prosecution.
Shipping assistance
UAF Environmental Health, Safety and Risk Management (EHSRM) can help you with shipping hazmat to and from the field or to collaborators at other institutions. There is no charge for this service, although you pay for shipping supplies and cost.
- Request help from EHSRM with shipping your hazmat. Please send requests to EHSRM at least 2 weeks before your ship date. Some biological materials and soils may require permits in order to ship.
- EHSRM provides hazmat shipping training to interested individuals. If you ship often, or would like to be a resource for your department, contact us at 474-5617 or 474-6771.
