Field Safety Planning

We encourage all reserve visitors to use a field safety plan as part of your trip to Younger Lagoon Reserve. The University of California offers guidance and forms related to this process, or your home institution may have a process set aside as well. 

A field safety plan serves as a tool to document your travel hazard assessment, communication plan, emergency procedures, and required training.  Developing and using a field safety plan is part of the Cal/OSHA requirement of an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP).

This plan should not only identify hazards but indicate how they will be addressed and mitigated. For any identified hazards indicate what steps will be taken to minimize the risk to participants.

Steps to prepare for field work:

  1. Complete a field safety plan.
  2. Complete appropriate training for your site and operations (heat illness, first aid,…).
  3. Obtain recommended immunizations for your destination (Mainly for international travel, allow 4-6 weeks prior to your trip).
  4. Hold a pre-trip meeting to review your field safety plan, travel logistics, pack list (including first aid kit), etc. and cover any remaining training needs.
  5. University of California affiliates: Register trips via UC Away for travel alerts, travel insurance documentation, and evacuation services when traveling out of state or abroad. 

The following University of California Field Safety Plan has been partially pre-filled with information applicable to a trip to UCSC Fort Ord Natural Reserve. The form includes staff contact, medical services directions, and other site specific information. Please use this form and fill in your trip specific information. Print and review with all members of your group: Younger Lagoon Reserve Field Safety Plan Form link

For a more information please visit the UCOP Field Research Safety Center of Excellence.