kit clothing

FIELDWORKSAFETY

Kit - clothing

For your own safety and the safety of other members of the field party it is of utmost importance that you are adequately clothed and equipped for the terrain and conditions in which you are likely to be working. This section contains advice on the most suitable clothing and essential equipment needed for the field environments you are most likely to encounter. Depending on the nature of your work and expected conditions you may need to take kit additional to that shown in this package. Finally, don't forget that if you are working in remote areas you should take food and drink sufficient for 12 hours in case of immobilisation. Do not eat emergency rations except in emergency!

In many field environments conditions can be very severe in all seasons. You may be faced with driving rain, snow, high winds and sea spray. It is essential that you wear good quality wind and waterproof clothing, especially in winter, spring and autumn. Clothing should be strong and light, but • must insulate you from the cold by retaining warm air next to your skin • outer garments should ideally be brightly coloured in order that you can be seen by rescue teams in the event of an emergency • shouldn't restrict your movements by being too loose or too tight • must be wind and waterproof • let perspiration escape.

Clothing for different seasons

Remember: Conditions can change and you will need to equip yourself to cope with the worst conditions.

If in doubt consult staff in a good quality outdoor pursuits shop.

Jackets To stay warm and dry a wind and waterproof jacket is essential. Jackets must be large enough to cover several layers of clothing and should ideally be brightly coloured. You should carry a lightweight waterproof jacket and overtrousers at all times together with a high visibility waistcoat if your jacket is not brightly coloured. Choose a jacket that: • has a drawstring hood • has plenty of waterproof pockets, including a map pocket • is long enough to reach your lower hip

Clothing details

Overtrousers Waterproof overtrousers are essential for your safety and comfort. Wet clothes increase your chance of suffering from hypothermia should you become immobilised in the field, so don’t forget to put overtrousers on at the first sign of rain or snow. You should always carry overtrousers and a lightweight waterproof jacket. Overtrousers should: • have a knee length zip so they are easier to use • allow freedom of movement so you can lift your knees to a reasonable height

Mid layers A fleece jacket is a good outermost insulating layer in winter; lighter fleece mid layers are suitable in other seasons. Remember: • Several thin mid layers are warmer than a single thick layer. • Trousers should be made of warm, quick drying material to give you protection from wind. • Field trousers that restrict your movement may cause fatique in the field and danger of falls. • Jeans/cotton trousers are not suitable: they restrict movement and are very cold when wet.

Base layers Although normal underwear will be adequate in all but the coldest conditions, thermal underwear is better in very cold or extreme conditions. Remember: Thermal underwear is not easy to remove so make sure that overlying layers are easily vented in order to prevent overheating on physical exertion or in warmer conditions.

Accessories In cold conditions you may need a hat and gloves. Body heat is rapidly lost from an unprotected head. In wet conditions you may also need gaiters to keep your trousers dry, especially when you are working in long grass. Gaiters also protect from insect and snake bites! Remember: Climbing/scrambling skills may be difficult if your hands are too cold.

Footwear must: • fit properly • give good ankle support • be broad, strong and lightweight Thin, ill-fitting and poor quality footwear is both dangerous and uncomfortable. Good quality, waterproof footwear is essential and for most types of fieldwork walking boots are best. Specialist footwear may be required for some types of field work. If in doubt consult staff in a good quality outdoor pursuits shop. WARNING Trainers are not appropriate for fieldwork. You are at risk from sprains and damaged ankles if you wear them on rocky and uneven ground.

Kit - footwear

Walking boots Walking boots should be broad, strong and lightweight and have: • a deep rubber tread • thick but supple uppers • firm ankle support

Remember: Socks should be of natural fibres e.g. wool. Wear one or two pairs of socks inside your boots to reduce chafing. New boots should be broken in gradually before they are worn for a full day.

Wellingtons Wellingtons can be useful on estuaries or in sand or clay pits.

Remember: Wellingtons should never be used for work in rough hill terrain or in rocky coastal areas. In these conditions they give insufficient support and protection and you are highly likely to slip, fall and/or sprain a joint.

Safety boots Safety boots are mandatory footwear in some quarries and industrial sites. These boots have steel toecaps and are made to Government Safety Standards.

Remember: Check the regulations with the quarry or site manager and ask if specialist footwear will be provided.