Biology 57: Evolutionary Biology George M. Diggs, Jr. Department of Biology and Center for Environmental Studies Austin College, Sherman, Texas & Research Associate, Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), Fort Worth

Austin College
Department of Biology
Field Biology Safety Contract

Field excursions entail certain potentially hazardous activities. The purpose of this document is to inform participants in field trips of potential risks, and of procedures to minimize these risks. Please read this document carefully and sign below. (Each student will read and sign the safety contract during the first class session).

Potential hazards associated with field work include:
• Abrasions
• Allergy attacks
• Boating accidents
• Broken bones
• Dehydration
• Drowning
• Falls
• Exposure to animal pathogens (e.g. mites, ticks)
• Exposure to bacterial pathogens (e.g. Lyme disease, Ehrlichosis, Escherichia coli)
• Exposure to plant pathogens (e.g. poison ivy, bull nettle)
• Exposure to protist pathogens (e.g. giardiasis, primary amebic meningoencephalitis)
• Exposure to viral pathogens (e.g. Hantavirus, rabies)
• Insect stings, scorpion stings, spider bites
• Lightning
• Snakebite
• Sprains
• Sunburn

In order to minimize exposure to potential hazards, the following procedures for fieldwork have been established by the Biology Department. Adherence to these procedures will help make our field trips safe and positive learning experiences.

Always wear appropriate attire:
• Sturdy shoes or boots
• Pants rather than shorts
• Long sleeve shirt
• Hat or other headgear
Drink plenty of water
Use sunscreen
Wear a life preserver anytime you are in a boat
Always shower after a field trip and check yourself for ticks
• if you find a tick that is imbedded into your skin, grasp it gently with your fingers (never forceps or tweezers) and twist until the tick's head is dislodged
Use a snake stick or potato rake to lift rocks or roll logs
Never try to catch a snake
Be careful where you put your hands and feet
Always look carefully before you grasp an object in the field

Make your instructor aware of any special medical problems or needs before a field trip, so that appropriate precautions can be taken.

Do you have any special medical needs?_______ If so, please identify them:________________________

I have read and understand the above precautions and procedures. I agree to follow the safety procedures, and to behave in a safe and cautious manner while in the field.


__________________________________________ ___________________
Student's signature Date
effective 01/31/01

For further information about this course, please contact:

Dr. George Diggs, Professor Department of Biology Austin College 900 N. Grand Ave. Sherman, TX 75090 903-813-2246 Fax: 903-813-3199 gdiggs@austincollege.edu

All text and images on this page copyright 2004, George M. Diggs, Jr.