Miscellaneous Hazards

Risks

Associated Control Measures

Difficulties in summoning help when required; risk of abuse/attack

Where possible work, as a minimum, in pairs. Where possible carry a radio or mobile phone. Leave details of the field site and a work plan (include contact name and address) with colleagues in the department or at home prior to any trip. Specify dates and times of departure and return If your plans change, inform someone as soon as possible. Do not carry valuables or large sums of money unless you need to. Carry a personal alarm (This advice is directed to males as well as females - all are equally vulnerable when alone!) Instigate a "check-in" system with a colleague or supervisor - Phone in at regular intervals. If you do not phone or return at a certain time arrange for suitable action to be taken. Trust your intuition - If you feel scared or uneasy, do not ignore it.

Travelling Alone

Risks	Associated Control Measures
On foot - risks of personal attack/abuse	Whenever possible avoid walking alone at night. Keep to busy, well-lit roads. Avoid poorly lit or rarely used underpasses. Walk facing on-coming traffic to avoid kerb-crawlers. Do not use a personal stereo - you will be unable to hear anyone approaching from behind. Plan your journey in advance - tell someone which route you mean to take and the estimated time of arrival at your destination. Walk with confidence and purpose - try not to look as if you are not sure of where you are going. Never look as though you are carrying a lot of money. Dress appropriately - try to fit in without attracting attention.
By Car	Make sure the vehicle is in good working order before setting off. Make sure you have change for a telephone in an emergency. Plan your journey in advance - tell someone which route you mean to take and the estimated time of arrival at your destination. If this changes, ensure you inform your contact as soon as you can. Do not leave valuables visible in the car - even when you are in it. Keep bags etc. out of reach of open windows. When parking in daylight, consider what the area will be like after dark. When returning to the vehicle, quickly look around it to make sure there is no one waiting for you. If you are forced to stop by another car, stay in the car, lock the doors and speak through a slightly open window. Make sure you know what to do if the car breaks down. (ie. who to phone; where to phone from etc.)

Staying in Hotels

Risks	Associated Control Measures
Risks to personal safety	At the reception, try to avoid letting other people overhear your name and room number. Do not go into other people's rooms unless you know it is absolutely safe. Do not allow people into your room unless you know who they are. If you hear a disturbance, stay in your room and phone for help.