Field safety
The following information applies to all units, instructors and researchers engaged in off-campus field activities and travel; including research, fieldwork, field schools, most academic group travel (either domestic or aboard), athletics travel, student club programs and related university business. Supervisors are required to identify and minimize potential risks and ensure appropriate safety and emergency response measures are in place prior to travel in alignment with the Off-campus Activity Risk Management Policy.
If you require guidance or more information, please contact:
Field Safety Plans (FSP)
Field safety plans are required for most off-campus activities carried out in the natural environment, community or remote locations, away from the normal support networks of the university. There are two types of safety plans depending on the level of risk and complexity with the activities and/or destination.
Standard FSP
Required for off-campus activities that are considered higher risk such as trips to remote or rural locations, high risk destinations, involve hazardous materials or equipment use, and other exposure risks, and/or where access to medical and emergency supports is not readily available or timely. These comprehensive plans are reviewed by OHSE and Risk Management, recommended for approval by the Dept Chair or School Director, and approved by the Dean.
- Standard Field Safety Plan
- Participants & emergency contacts form must be completed for each participant and submitted with the FSP.
Low Risk FSP
Intended for off-campus activities that are considered lower risk and where emergency assistance is readily available, such as local trips within Greater Victoria, short duration trips, or other off-campus activities that do not present elevated risks. Trip reviews and plan approvals should follow internal department procedures.
First aid
Off-campus and field activities are required to have first aid trained attendant(s) and kits appropriate to the risk level of the trip in accordance with WorkSafeBC regulations and Canadian first aid standards. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to assess first aid requirements prior to travel.
Steps to assess the risks
- Use the Risk Assessment table to determine your minimum first aid requirements.
- Consider if there are additional factors unique to your trip that will increase the risk level, training/certification or kit requirements (beyond the minimum).
- In your field safety planning documentation, indicate the first aid certification level and kit required for your trip, the name of the attendant(s), their first aid certificate level and expiry date.
- Consult with OHSE and Risk Management if you have any questions.
Researchers and field school leaders who are engaged in higher risk off-campus activities can register for the Remote or Wilderness first aid courses coordinated by OHSE at no charge. These courses are scheduled annually.
Individuals who are engaged in low/moderate risk off-campus activities will need to obtain first aid certification from an outside provider (e.g. Red Cross, St. John’s Ambulance, etc.). Check the list of WorkSafeBC approved first aid training providers.
Trip leaders/supervisors who require a Remote or Wilderness first aid kit can either acquire the contents to build their own kit or may purchase kits directly from Ridge Wilderness (or another authorized supplier). Your department may also have a supply of kits to borrow – check with your department administrator for availability.
Supervisors/units that require a Personal, Emergency/Basic or Standard/Intermediate first aid kit can purchase them online or at first aid supply stores locally. Ensure that the kits are compliant with WorkSafeBC, Red Cross or CSA.
Naloxone
The university has developed guidance aligned with the Rich Report recommendation that naloxone kits and persons trained in its use be readily available for defined field trips.
Guidelines for field trips
Naloxone kits and trained personnel are required for UVic field trips that include students participating in research, learning or other approved university activities in a remote location.
A remote location is an area where reliable emergency medical assistance (ambulance) is more than 30 minutes away travel time, and/or the area is less accessible due to road, terrain, environmental or other conditions which make it difficult to obtain assistance.
It is recommended that at least two individuals are trained with sufficient kits available where multiple doses can be administered for an overdose emergency, while in the field.
Participants who complete the Remote or Wilderness first aid course will receive naloxone training as part of those courses.
Naloxone training is also available online at these public sites:
- Toward the Heart (free)
- Canadian Red Cross ($30)
Students can also access training (and kits) through the UVSS.
Kits are currently available at several locations for students, and in the community:
- UVic Harm Reduction Centre (SUB)
- UVic Student Wellness Center
- BC community pharmacies