Section 10: Health Preparations for Field Activities

Infectious Disease Assessment: Prior to departure, identify any infectious diseases present at the field sites, along travel routes, or in the areas where the team will reside. For any identified risks, determine if there are specific prophylactic measures, avoidance strategies, or vaccines to minimize the potential for harm.

Suggest that participants obtain all recommended vaccinations and take any necessary medical precautions based on the specific field site location. For information on required and recommended vaccinations, complete a University of Nevada, Reno Occupational Health Surveillance System (OHSS) evaluation, or consult a qualified travel health clinic.

Preparations for working with animals known to carry infectious diseases, or conducting activities in hazardous locations, must be detailed in the Field Safety Plan. Consultation with the University Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is required for most field work involving animals.

When working with, or in proximity to, any type of dangerous organism, consider potential health impacts. Detail your selected avoidance and mitigation strategies in the Field Safety Plan.

Suggest that participants with chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma), allergies, or those who require daily medications share relevant health information with a trusted group member, such as the Field Trip Leader, to ensure appropriate support during the field activity.

Section 11: General Field Safety Guidance and Hazard Mitigation