This chapter of the National Field Manual is required reading for USGS personnel who will be involved in the collection of water-quality data. Using the information in this chapter, field teams are responsible for establishing and implementing safety procedures appropriate for their field activities. To ensure safety, field work requires an awareness of potential hazards and a knowledge of regulations and recommended procedures. The collection of water-quality data in the field brings field personnel in touch with numerous hazards.
Personnel routinely work in extreme environmental conditions and in remote locations.
Many assignments require working with, or around, heavy machinery. Water-quality studies involve the transportation and use of equipment and chemicals. Personnel routinely come in direct and indirect contact with waterborne and airborne chemicals and pathogens, and with potentially dangerous animals and plants. Remain calm if you find yourself in danger. Use the information in this manual to help you take appropriate actions.