Other People's Homes

Risks	Associated Control Measures
Associated Risks	See also Lone working See also Animals - other people's pets
Risk of personal attack/abuse	Do not enter the house if the appropriate person is not available. Wait to be invited in or at least ask to enter. Acknowledge that it is their territory; let them lead the way. If the person is drunk or aggressive, do not enter. Ensure you can get out quickly if necessary. If you feel threatened, make an excuse to leave.
Causing offence, leading to abuse/attack	Try not to react to dirty or smelly surroundings. Do not spread your belongings around. Take care with documents you may not want them to see, but avoid being "secretive". Let them know how much of their time you will need.

Unexpected Behaviour

Risks	Associated Control Measures
Risk of personal attack/abuse due to a misunderstanding of the nature of work.	Be aware of any delicate issues involved with discussions or interviews e.g. before asking a farmer questions regarding his land management, explain why you need to know. Ensure landowners and their employees know who you are and what you are doing.
Aggressive Behaviour	Do not underestimate the importance of body language. Talk yourself out of problems; placate rather than provoke. Do not turn your back on someone who is behaving aggressively. Stay calm, and speak gently and slowly. Do not be enticed into an argument. Avoid an aggressive stance. Crossed arms, hands on hips or raised hands will challenge and confront. Keep your distance. Never try to touch someone who is angry - this will not calm the situation. Keep your eye on potential escape routes
Physical attack	Try to get away as quickly as possible. Move towards a place where you know there will be other people. Carry a personal alarm - set it off as close to the aggressor's ear as possible and then throw it out of reach. Shout and scream - shout something practical like "call the police!" or "Fire!" - people rarely react to cries of "help!"  If grabbed and unable to break free - pretend to vomit. This will often have the desired effect

Dealing with Strangers

Risks	Associated Control Measures
Causing offence, leading to abuse/attack	Seek training in good interview techniques. Where possible "vet" interviewees first. Conduct interviews at neutral locations or where neither party could be at risk. Where possible conduct any interviews with an observer. Seek advice and support from local groups. Do not wear clothes that might cause offence.

Public Places

Risks	Associated Control Measures
Causing offence, leading to abuse/attack	Do not stand in places where you will be causing an obstruction. Always carry your ID card and be prepared to identify yourself. Seek training in good interview techniques. Consider your dress carefully - is it suitable for the location? Make sure you have sought permission from relevant authorities to work in your chosen location.