Evolutionary Biology

Biology 332: 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

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.

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, West Nile Virus, 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—most field accidents are linked to dehydration
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 imbedded into your skin, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick. This can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth-parts with tweezers. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.
• If you develop flu-like symptoms or a red-ring and rash around bite area, get medical attention immediately. Tell physician that you have had a tick bite. Lyme disease is easily treated if caught early. If left untreated, you could have permanent nervous system damage. See CDC’s website for more information about Lyme disease.
Use a snake stick or potato rake to lift rocks or roll logs
Be careful where you put your hands and feet
Always look carefully before you grasp an object in the field—wear gloves

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