Field researchers sometimes need to use mechanical equipment in the field.  These types of equipment can include:  vehicles, power tools, ATV’s, snowmobiles, firearms, and heavy moving equipment.  Vehicles are the most commonly used piece of heavy equipment used in the field, so we will cover some important guidelines and policies for field vehicle use at UMCES.  If you need to use other types mechanical equipment to perform your field work, please be sure to take all appropriate safety precautions, which can include wearing appropriate PPE, obtaining specialized training, and developing standard operating procedures.

Driving Safety

Regardless of your planned field work, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re going to need to take a car from the lab into the field. Your trip may require a short drive on rural roads or it may require driving in heavy urban traffic on major highways.  It could even require you to venture off paved roads to get yourself and/or field equipment to your sampling location.  Operating a vehicle safely – both on the road and off road – is important to ensure a safe and successful field operation for everyone involved.

• All MD laws governing use of motor vehicles must be observed at all times, including:
  • All drivers and front seat passengers must wear seat belts,
  • Hands free cell phone usage ONLY,
  • Never text while driving!
• Drivers must also abide by all UMCES policies.
• Drivers should constantly remember their responsibilities and that their actions could affect the safety and lives of their occupants.
• Exercise additional precautions when the weather affects driving conditions.
• Inspect all vehicles before heading out.

Off Road Considerations

Sometimes your work might take you to dirt roads and trails in a field vehicle.  Drivers intending to use four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles should undergo training and keep the following in mind:

• Drivers intending to use four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles should undergo training
• Use appropriate speed
• Survey the road – get out if necessary
• If a tow truck could not get down that road, then you shouldn’t try it
• Wear your seat belt
• Two sets of vehicle keys, with different crew members can be helpful in case one set gets lost