Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
dangerous to walk on because of the possibility of getting
stuck. Mudslides tend to occur during heavy rainfall and
care should be taken to avoid areas where they are active.
•
Rising tides
:
If you are working in a tidal coastal area
ensure that you know the time and position of high tide,
where any potential tidal cut-offs are along your access
route, and be aware of any onshore winds or high surf
conditions that will drive the tide in more quickly and
potentially higher than average.
2
•
Slippery rocks
:
Algae-covered rocks on the foreshore or
stream beds can be exceedingly slippery. Avoid these areas
wherever possible, for instance by walking above the high
water mark on the beach or well below it where the algae
has been scoured away by waves. The area will also tend to
be less slippery when the algae-coated surfaces are dry.
•
Uneven surfaces and surfaces covered with boulders
:
Ensure that you are wearing strong footwear that will
protect your ankles, toes and feet, take your time to pick
out a good route and ensure that you do not become
fatigued and slip.
•
Unpredictable weather
:
This can easily result in
hypothermia, sunstroke or dehydration. Be prepared for the
range of possible weather conditions. In hot conditions
ensure you have something to cover your head with,
sunglasses, sunblock and plenty of fl uids. In winter ensure
you wear warm clothing and have good quality waterproofs,
which will also protect you from the wind. A warm hat is
essential since a signifi cant proportion of the heat that your
body generates is lost through your head.
•
Lightning
:
If you are caught out in the open in a
thunderstorm that is less than about 5 miles away, avoid
sheltering under a tree or anything tall where lightning is
likely to ground. If there is time, retreat from high ground.
Crouch down in an open space touching as little of the
ground as possible. If you are in a vehicle you will be fairly
safe, but avoid touching any of the metal body of the car. If
you are close to water (e.g. a lake or the sea) move away
from the water's edge where lightning is likely to strike.
•
Dangerous beasties and plants
:
Be aware of any local
dangerous or poisonous biota, e.g. bees, wasps, snakes,
leeches, scorpions, spiders, bears, poison oak (USA) and
ticks, water-borne infections and how to deal with any
other hazards that are particular to your fi eld area.
•
Working machinery, toxic substances
:
In quarries and
mines, working machinery is a major hazard. The position
of the driver in large diggers and excavators often means
