A field safety plan serves as a tool to document the hazard assessment, communication plan, emergency procedures, and training for staff, researchers, or students planning to engage in field activities. This plan is intended to identify hazards, as well as precautions and actions taken to address and mitigate those hazards. It also acts as a reference document for the team in the case of an emergency.
Start developing a safety plan early in the field activity planning process to allow time to gather information, identify safety controls needed, and complete necessary training. EH&S offers a Field Safety Plan Template and is available for consultation throughout the development of your plan. Download the template as a Microsoft Word Document, or make a copy for editing in Google Docs.
Field research, field studies, or fieldwork is the conducting of off-campus activities outside a laboratory, library, or office setting in urban or natural environments.
Fieldwork may include but is not limited to the following activities:
- Day trips or extended stays
- Domestic or international trips
- Field trips for academic courses
- Student organization activities including off-campus events or competitions (Activities such as off-campus gatherings at private residences or off-campus parties are not included; a rock-climbing trip to Yosemite or kayaking in Monterey Bay may be included.)
- Work at Jasper Ridge and Hopkins Marine Station is considered fieldwork if the work is conducted outside of a laboratory, library or office.
What types of activities are not considered fieldwork?
Work at other universities and laboratories (excluding field stations), conference travel, library/archives work, or office work are not considered fieldwork.
Yes. The creation of the plan may be delegated to members of the group or research team. However, the faculty or supervisor is responsible for its review, approval, and implementation.
The PI, supervisor, or faculty advisor must sign-off on the plan. Review the Field Safety Plan with all trip participants. Carry a copy while conducting field activities (a paper copy may be appropriate if emergency internet and/or battery power may be unreliable).
Each of the emergency contacts must have a copy and be familiar with the plan. This includes someone at Stanford who is not on the trip (could be the PI/supervisor, and/or other Department representative who can assist in the case of an emergency).
The field safety plan must be updated whenever materials, processes, procedures, equipment or conditions change that represent a new safety and/or health hazard. The plan must also be updated anytime locations or participants change.
Site Information:
- Research location and description
- Travel plans, site access and security
- Anticipated weather conditions
- No Go criteria
- Drinking water availability
Emergency Services and Contact Information:
- Leaders and participants contact information
- Local and university contacts
- Emergency communication plan
- Nearest emergency department
- Cell phone coverage/satellite device information
Participant Information:
- Required training
- Check-in (buddy) procedures
- Physical/mental demands
- Immunizations/medical evaluations
- Side trips/free time
Activities, Hazards and Mitigation:
- Field activity description
- Field transportation
- Tools and equipment
- Physical/environmental hazards
- Personal protective equipment
- First aid training and supplies
Additional Considerations:
- Insurance
- International activities
- Personal safety, security and inclusivity
