EMERGE Institute Field Safety & Logistics Handbook

Biology Integration Institute Research Coordination Network Toolkit Cover Page Submission Date: 12/10/2024 10:35:14 PART 1: Identifying Information Who is uploading this document?: Gina Z. Kahn What is the email of the document uploader(s)?: [email protected] What BII is this document from?: EMERGE Tool or Activity Title: EMERGE Institute Field Safety & Logistics Handbook Brief description on your tool / activity: The goal of this Field Safety & Logistics Handbook is to clearly lay out the plans, policies, and expectations of the EMERGE Team when preparing for and participating in fieldwork associated with the EMERGE-Biology Integration Institute. The content in this handbook is intended to provide guidance on how to conduct successful fieldwork that promotes the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of team members. Document categorie(s): Team Science, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Education & Training Primary developer(s) of the document: Dr. Sophia A. Burke ([email protected]), Dr. Ruth Varner (Ruth.V[email protected]), Dr. Virginia Rich ([email protected]) Who is the current contact person & email for any follow-up questions about the document?: Dr. Ruth Varner (Ruth.V[email protected]) When was this resource developed or updated?: Created 2022, Updated 2024 Creative Commons License Choice: Yes, we choose the default (CC BY-NC-SA) Document source(s) description: This is an updated version of a document that was originally published in the UNH Earth Systems Research Center in March 2022, available at https://dx.doi.org/10.34051/p/2022.05. Is this document an update of an existing tool within the toolkit?: No PART 2: Context Dependency Is this tool or activity used at all organizations in your BII, or only a subset?: All Is this tool relevant at particular team development stage(s)?: Commitment & Initial Trust, Clarity of Roles and Responsibilities What organizations comprise your BII?: The Ohio State University, University of New Hampshire, University of Arizona, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Case Western Reserve University, University of California Berkeley, Florida State University, Stockholm University, Colorado State University at Fort Collins, Umea University, DOE Joint Genome Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, Lund University, Queensland University of Technology, Chapman University, and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry PART 3: Usage Notes Why did your group decide on this approach or method?: Our field team developed this comprehensive plan because there were no existing documents available at our institutions that would help support a safe field campaign. We felt it was necessary to codify policies and procedures. Is there a particular group size this tool or activity is geared towards?: 5-30 Is there a particular training stage (e.g. undergraduate, graduate, ECRs broadly, faculty…) this tool or activity is geared towards?: Everyone, especially ECRs. Estimated time required for applying tool: Approximately one day at the beginning of the field campaign, and ongoing during the field campaign. Is this a tool that is used once, multiple times, or on a recurring regular basis?: On a recurring regular basis Is this tool specific to in-person, hybrid, virtual?: In-person What is the required level of resources and expertise level needed to implement this tool or activity?: N/A Are there any possible challenges in using this tool or activity, based on your team’s experience?: An issue may arise that isn't covered in the field manual. Do you have any assessment of the effectiveness of this tool?: We do not have an assessment of this tool. We do however hold an annual debrief after each field season to debrief and collect feedback informally and integrate that to this document. We also review and update this document before each field season with the full field team to provide opportunity for feedback. Other usage notes: EMERGE Institute Field Safety & Logistics Handbook Drafted by Dr. Sophia A. Burke ([email protected]) with iterative contributions from Dr. Ruth Varner, Dr. Virginia Rich, the 2023 EMERGE Field Team and others in the EMERGE Community Last Updated: May 2024 2 ABSTRACT 4 INTRODUCTION 6 Goal of this Handbook 6 How to use this Handbook 6 Statement of Funding 7 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES 7 EMERGE Executive Committee 7 EMERGE Fieldwork Team 8 Structure of the FT 8 On-Call Driver & On-Call Support Field Team Members 8 Summer REU Program 9 FIELD SITE INFORMATION 10 Stordalen Mire, Abisko, Sweden 10 Location 10 Site Access 10 Facilities 10 Security 11 Expected Weather 11 Access to Shade and Shelter 11 High Heat Procedure 12 Abisko Scientific Research Station, Abisko, Sweden 12 Location 12 Available Facilities 12 Points of Contact 13 Nearby Facilities 13 Gas Stations & Grocery Stores 13 Airports & Car Rental Services 14 General Timeline for Arrival 15 FIELDWORK PREPARATION PROCEDURES 15 Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist 15 Pre-Departure Field Team Meetings 16 FT Communication Plan during Field Campaign 16 Nightly De-brief and Planning Meeting 16 In-Field Communication Plan 17 Public Engagement 17 Cultural Information 18 Sweden vs. the USA 18 Sápmi and the Sámi people 18 Saunas at The Research Station 18 Personal Field Gear 19 Field Gear List 19 Field Gear Acquisition 20 Personal Items as a part of Field Gear 20 3 Field First Aid Kit 21 Components of Fully Stocked First Aid Kit 21 Components of Personal First Aid Kit 22 Mental Health in the Field 22 FIELDWORK TEAM COMMUNITY AGREEMENT 23 Group Norms of Community Mutual Aid and Care 23 Communication Skills: Active Listening, Inviting & Giving Feedback, Addressing Conflict 25 Active Listening 25 Inviting and Giving Feedback 26 Addressing Conflict 26 Open the Front Door 27 The Four Part Apology 27 Disciplinary Action and Conflict Resolution 28 INCLUSIVE RISK ASSESSMENT 28 SAFETY POLICIES 31 EMERGE Field Team and REU Sickness and Infectious Disease Policy 31 Field Day No Go Criteria 33 Non-Fieldwork Related (e.g., Leisure Time) Safety Procedures/Expectations 34 Alcohol Consumption 34 Side Trips 35 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN 35 REFERENCES AND RESOURCES 37 APPENDICES 39 I. Appendix I: Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist 39 II. Appendix II. Inclusive Risk Assessment Table 42 III. Appendix III. Sweden Emergency Services and Contact Information 53 IV. Appendix IV. Incident Reporting Procedures by Institution 54 V. Appendix V: Field Team Info from Previous Years 60 4 ABSTRACT The EMERGE Institute, a NSF-funded Biology Integration Institute, consists of over ninety participants at varying career stages and disciplines from universities around the globe. The central aim of EMERGE is to investigate the EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE in the model peatland ecosystem Stordalen Mire, located in subarctic Sweden using a broad sweep of scientific sampling and analytical techniques. EMERGE uses a multi-pronged approach to foster an inclusive transdisciplinary research environment for all EMERGE participants through mentorship and training. Annual fieldwork campaigns to Stordalen Mire, a semi-remote field site in northern Sweden, are an integral part of the Institute and involve the strategic coordination of EMERGE team members from the five main research activities ranging in discipline from microbiology to remote sensing. The EMERGE Field Team (FT) spans graduate students, post-docs, and faculty members as well as a group of undergraduate students participating in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. The EMERGE FT lives together at the Abisko Scientific Research Station (ANS) and works intensively together at Stordalen Mire, in the ANS laboratories, and at other nearby field sites. This comprehensive Field Safety & Logistics Handbook (hereafter referred to as ‘handbook’) was created to act not only as a framework for discussing fieldwork safety policies and procedures among the EMERGE FT leading up to and during each year’s field campaign, but also as a way for EMERGE to set standards for safety training, communication, and conduct. This handbook contains sections on Field Site Information, Fieldwork Preparation, the FT Community Agreement, the Inclusive Risk Assessment (EMERGE-IRA) and Emergency Response Procedures and more. Each member of the FT is expected to complete a PreDeparture Checklist before departing for fieldwork, which includes providing detailed travel and lodging information, travel insurance information for their home institution, and completing several required trainings including a First Aid & CPR course, a sexual harassment in fieldwork prevention training, and reading materials on local and Indigenous cultures in Sweden. The handbook is reviewed in detail by members of the FT at several PreDeparture meetings in addition to discussing sampling protocols. FT members are able to provide suggestions and modifications to the FT Community Agreement during these meetings. The EMERGE-IRA is also discussed in detail during the pre-departure meetings with FT members discussing strategies for physical and psychological hazard mitigation, paying attention to the unique risk factors of marginalized geoscientists. This handbook is part of a larger ‘toolkit’ in development by EMERGE which shares a thorough series of research and training tools for conducting transdisciplinary research that 5 is not only cutting-edge but also inclusive. The complete toolkit will be made available on the EMERGE website 6 INTRODUCTION Goal of this Handbook The goal of this Field Safety & Logistics Handbook (hereafter referred to as ‘handbook’) is to clearly lay out the plans, policies, and expectations of the EMERGE Team (including Executive Committee, Fieldwork Team) when preparing for and participating in fieldwork associated with the EMERGE-Biology Integration Institute. As scientists we strive to discover answers to complex questions about our planet all while maintaining a positive environment where our team members grow as scientists and as people; one where they can learn from, teach, and motivate one another as well as those outside the project. The content in this handbook is intended to provide guidance on how to conduct successful fieldwork that promotes the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of team members. This handbook was inspired by the recent publication in Nature Ecology and Evolution, Safe fieldwork strategies for at-risk individuals, their supervisors and their institutions (Demery and Pipkin, 2021) in that it not only describes policies that promote physical safety but also policies that promote the psychological safety of the field team, taking special care to acknowledge the experiences and needs of underrepresented communities. It is important to note that this document does not work in isolation but is part of the EMERGE Institute’s larger strategic approach to inclusive research and fieldwork practices that includes training on safety, mentorship and team science. This handbook will be part of the EMERGE Institute’s Toolkit for conducting inclusive interdisciplinary research. A link to this toolkit once developed will be available on the EMERGE website. This handbook also draws upon information shared via the University of California Field Research Safety Center of Excellence as well as the University of California: Riverside, 2021 Fieldwork Toolkit Leadership Training Series. At the end of this document there is a list of additional resources and references cited herein. How to use this Handbook This handbook can be used as reference for all things related to fieldwork conducted in association with the EMERGE project. The information in this handbook should be reviewed on an annual basis by the EMERGE Executive Committee and the EMERGE Fieldwork Team. 13 A large meeting room, located in the main building, is used for daily Fika, or coffee hour. Fika usually occurs between nine and ten o’clock every weekday morning and is an important part of Swedish culture (see Cultural Information for more details). This is a time for folks at ANS to sit down, chat, have a cup of coffee (or tea) together. Members of the EMERGE FT should try to attend Fika at least once a week . This may require some finagling of field work schedules to accommodate this. Laundry facilities are available on the premises, though the systems are different from those in the USA. For example, the dryer has a water receptacle that must be emptied between uses, otherwise the clothes will not dry. Alternatively, drying rooms are available for clean laundry. Directions are available on their usage though some nuances are missing (e.g., which bay in the washer does the laundry soap go into?). The power to the machines is also often shut off at the wall via an outlet switch. Laboratory facilities are available upon request (Figure 5). Effort should be made to contact ANS as soon as field plans begin to materialize so that reservations for space can be made. It is imperative that any laboratory facilities used by the EMERGE FT are always kept organized and tidy. Cars with standard transmission are available at the station for use by visiting researchers but need to be signed out in advance. This is not great for extended use. Rental cars are also available at the Kiruna airport (see below). Points of Contact Through our work at ANS over the years, we have developed several close contacts at ANS. All communication with ANS staff should first be discussed with the FT Leader. A staff directory is available on the ANS website. Nearby Facilities 1. Gas Stations & Grocery Stores The nearest gas station for both ANS and Stordalen Mire is located within Abisko Village. This gas station also serves as the local grocery store. Bilisten, Kalle Jons väg 1, 981 07 Abisko, Sweden; +4611280000 Store Hours: OPEN 24 HOURS, seven days a week 14 There are several much larger grocery stores and hardware stores located in Kiruna. Produce is available in more variety and freshness in Kiruna. Trips to these places for supplies should be coordinated to coincide with folks arriving at the Kiruna airport. Grocery Store : ICA Kvantum, Österleden 2, 981 38 Kiruna, Sweden Store Hours: 7 days a week: 8AM – 10PM Grocery Store, with large hardware section : Stora Coop, Österleden 12, 981 28 Kiruna, Sweden Store Hours: 7 days a week: 8AM – 10PM Hardware Store : XL-BYGG Kiruna, Linbanevägen 1, 981 41 Kiruna, Sweden Store Hours: M-F: 7AM – 5PM; Sat: 10AM – 2PM; closed Sundays. Liquor Store : Systembolaget, Geologgatan 7B, 981 31 Kiruna, Sweden Store Hours: M-Th: 10AM - 6PM; F: 10AM - 7PM; Sa: 10AM - 3PM; closed sundays. The drinking age in Sweden is 18 years old to purchase at bars and restaurants. To buy alcohol from anywhere other than a bar/restaurant, you must be 20 years of age or older. To regulate consumption, the Swedish government controls national alcohol sales via Systembolaget stores. This is where one can buy alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content above 3.5%. Local stores and gas stations cannot sell wine or hard alcohol but they can sell beer at or below 3.5% alcohol content (Kavanagh, 2017). Driving a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.02% or higher is considered a crime (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2016). 2. Airports & Car Rental Services The closest airport to Abisko, SE is located in Kiruna, SE (KRN). Flights to and from Kiruna and Stockholm typically occur only twice a day. Cars are available for rental at this airport via Avis, Hertz, Europcar and Sixt Biluthyrning. Flygfältsvägen, 981 41 Kiruna, Sweden, +46101094600; 1hr 12 minute drive west down E10 to Abisko, SE There is another airport located in Narvik, Norway. 15 Harstad/Narvik Airport (EVE), Harstad/Narvik lufthavn, 8536 Evenes, Norway, +4767034100; 1hr 45 minute drive east down the E10 to Abisko, SE General Timeline for Arrival Flights from the USA are routed first to Stockholm Arlanda International Airport (ARN) and then another flight is taken to Kiruna (KRN). Once the FT has arrived in Kiruna, the rental cars can be picked up at the Kiruna airport. The FT typically makes initial grocery and hardware store stops while in Kiruna. The FT will discuss their specific needs before arriving in Kiruna so that trips to the necessary stores can be conducted efficiently. FT members should consider planning their meals and getting fresh produce and bulk items while in Kiruna. Once supplies are picked up, the FT drives to Abisko and checks into the research station. If time permits on the arrival day, the FT may decide to stop at Stordalen Mire for an initial scouting trip, otherwise the FT heads straight to ANS. FIELDWORK PREPARATION PROCEDURES Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist Each FT Member is required to fill out a checklist (Appendix I: Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist) that outlines important steps for fieldwork preparation. These steps include: 1. Fieldwork Risk Assessment Acknowledgement 2. Review of Community Agreement 3. Trip Registration 4. Institution International Travel Insurance 5. Flight Information 6. Lodging Details 7. Emergency Contact Information 8. Swimming Competency 9. Required Trainings 10. Pertinent Health Conditions FT Members must turn in their completed Pre-Departure Checklist to the EMERGE EC and the FT Director at least two weeks before their departure date. If a FTM has completed a PreDeparture Checklist for a previous field season (and some of their training certifications are still valid) they should still fill out a Pre-Departure Checklist but make note of their valid certifications at the bottom of the page. Medical forms in association with the Pre-Departure 16 Checklist will be shared with the FT Director only. Copies of the medical forms will be carried by the FT Leader during the Field Campaign. A PDF of this document can be found: Appendix I: Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist. Pre-Departure Field Team Meetings Every year in preparation for fieldwork, all members of the FT should meet at least two months in advance to discuss the contents of this document; in particular: the Fieldwork PreDeparture Checklist and the FIELDWORK TEAM COMMUNITY AGREEMENT and the INCLUSIVE RISK ASSESSMENT. Before this meeting, FT members should read through the contents of this document and bring any comments, questions, additions to share during the meeting. Personal field gear needs and any field gear acquisition should be discussed if necessary (see Field Gear Acquisition section for more details). FT members should be given the opportunity to decide to no longer participate in fieldwork if they feel their needs will not be met by the Community Agreement and Inclusive Risk Assessment. An additional meeting will occur later discussing specific sampling protocols and sampling equipment needs. If more than one meeting is needed to discuss the Pre-Departure Checklist, Community Agreement and Inclusive Risk Assessment, more meetings should be scheduled. FT Communication Plan during Field Campaign Nightly De-brief and Planning Meeting Every evening during fieldwork, the FT will meet and debrief about the successes and struggles of the day and plan for the following day in the field. They will discuss such things as meeting times and locations, what sampling equipment is needed for the following day as well as what each FTM hopes to accomplish the next day. There should also be a permanent placeholder during these meetings for FT Members to discuss anything they would like to share with the group. They can use this time to provide each other with feedback, share how they are handling the physical/mental demands of fieldwork, and anything else that has come up. Each member of the FT is expected to attend these nightly meetings. If the FTM needs to skip a nightly meeting due to unexpected circumstances (e.g., not feeling well) or due to 17 things associated with their work (e.g., sample processing or analysis) they may do so. If a FT member is continuously missing a nightly meeting due to their work, the FT Leader should consider rescheduling the nightly meeting so that it can accommodate all FT Members . In-Field Communication Plan Each FT Member will be paired up with a “buddy” with whom they should be in regular contact throughout the field day. FT members will strive to remain within eyesight (earshot is always best) of their buddy while out at the field site. Buddies should be paired based on overlapping fieldwork tasks and/or location within the field site FT Members are working. FT Members will be provided with a cellphone with an activated SIM card that contains the numbers of the other team cell phones as well as pertinent ANS and emergency contacts (see Table A. 2). If FT members outnumber the available cellphones, at least one cellphone will be provided for each set of buddies. Solo Fieldwork Under certain circumstances, a FT member may conduct fieldwork (including travel to and from the field site and ANS research station) alone. Instances of solo fieldwork will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the FT Director and FT member planning to conduct solo fieldwork. Approval of solo fieldwork will be made based on experience travel to/from field location, experience conducting the fieldwork required, and willingness/comfort of the FT member to do so. Once approved, the FT member and FT Director will discuss risk management strategies and communication plans prior to departure. Messaging App for group-wide communication Each field season, a messaging group will be made (e.g. via WhatsApp app or similar) by the FT Director and all FT members will be added. Other non-traveling members (e.g. REU mentors, advisors) may request access to the group. This messaging group will be used by FT members to communicate with the group regarding side-trip plans (check-out/in, destination, estimated time of return), the location of nightly debrief meetings, and any other group-wide communications that are needed throughout the field campaign. Public Engagement 18 There is potential that while out working at Stordalen Mire, FT Members will be asked by other researchers or members of the public what they are doing there. Most often, the site is visited by other scientists and researchers staying at ANS. However, occasionally, members of the public will visit the site, as it is part of a National Park and is an excellent place for birdwatching and cloudberry picking (Figure 3). FT Members should be prepared to speak to the public about the basic components of their project, the goals of EMERGE and the institutional partners associated with the project. As mentioned earlier, each FT Member can carry official documentation from the EMERGE EC, outlining the goals of the project, should it be requested. Cultural Information Sweden vs. the USA There are several aspects of Swedish culture that differ from ours in the USA. For example, Swedes can appear quiet and reserved when you first meet them. It is helpful to read up about these cultural differences before arriving in Sweden to ensure a smooth transition. See the following links to read up about Swedish Culture: ● Sweden.se - 20 Things to Know ● Lund University: Swedish Culture and Tradition ● Cultural Atlas: Swedish Culture Sápmi and the Sámi people It is important to acknowledge that our fieldwork at Stordalen Mire occurs on the unceded homeland of the Sámi people, known as Sápmi which covers much of northern Scandinavia and some areas of western Russia. As a part of the requirements outlined in the Appendix I: Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist, FTMs should explore the following website that contains information about the history and culture of Sámi. Saunas at The Research Station As mentioned in the Available Facilities for Abisko Scientific Research Station, saunas are available for sign-out. Saunas are rooms, usually wooden, that contain a wood stove (or another heat source) and sometimes a box of large rocks and tiered bench seating. When the wood stove is lit and water is poured over the rocks, steam is created and fills the room. 19 People will sit in the heat at the end of the day as a way to relax. The higher up on the bench tier, the warmer you will feel. It is common practice in Sweden for individuals to sauna without clothes on, wrapped in a towel (or not) though given the station is often filled with international researchers, people are known to wear bathing suits as well, in line with their comfort levels. There are showers nearby (if using the saunas in the station) or a large lake (if using the ‘sauna by the lake’) to cool off in. Field Team members can sign out the sauna if they wish but are encouraged to do so in groups. FT members are also strongly encouraged not to drink alcohol while using the sauna as this can be dangerous. Personal Field Gear Field Gear List The following is a suggested Gear List, in addition to everyday clothing and other personal items, for fieldwork associated with the EMERGE Project. Clothing Other Suggested Materials 1. Raincoat and rain pants 2. Extra socks 3. Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support or rubber boots 4. Warm Hat 5. Sun hat 6. Gloves windproof and waterproof 7. Long sleeve shirt polypro and/or fleece are nice for warmth 8. Long pants polypro and/or fleece are nice for warmth 9. Shorts it can be warm there too! 10. Socks Four pairs is recommended, synthetic or wool 11. Fleece and/or wool sweater 1. Reusable Lunch bag/Tupperware 2. Small bag for trash 3. Gaiters can be nice on days when you don't plan to stand in deep water 4. Pocket Knife (be sure to check this) 5. Camera for documenting fieldwork and your trip, phone camera works just fine 6. European plug adapter and voltage converter 7. Travel alarm clock your phone may or may not work in SE Equipment ANS Specific Clothing/Items 3. Water bottle(s) with at least 2L of water 4. Backpack hiking quality or school backpack with rain cover 1. Indoor shoes 2. Bathingsuit for sauna-ing 3. Personal Towel 4. Tupperware/baggies for lunch 20 5. Cloth Mask 6. Bug Spray 7. Head net/bug net 8. Personal first aid kit (see below) 9. Sunglasses 10. Whistle 11. Sunscreen 5. a thermos 6. Reusable shopping bags 7. Eye mask most dorms have blackout shades but just in case, these are handy to have 8. Things you might need for comforts for non-working times/reminders of home) and comfortable clothing for communal living Field Gear Acquisition Funds for the purchase of field equipment (boots, clothing, backpacks etc.) that are needed by members of the FT will be made available on a case-by-case basis. FT members in need of equipment should contact the EMERGE EC to discuss their needs. The EMERGE EC will then determine whether equipment can be borrowed or if equipment should be purchased for the FT Member’s use during fieldwork. Personal Items as a part of Field Gear Members of the FT are allowed to bring any personal items that they feel are necessary for them to be able to participate fully in fieldwork, within reason. It has been brought to our attention that personal items such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste that are available for purchase in Kiruna are likely different to the brands FT Members are used to back in the US. Therefore, FT Members who use particular products are encouraged to pack as much as they would need to last the duration of the field campaign. For example, limited options for hair care products specially formulated for hair types other than straight exist at the main grocery stores in Kiruna. Also, menstruation products may also differ in brand, type etc. between Sweden and the USA. FT members are encouraged to bring any supplies they need in bulk. If a FT Member is at all concerned about this, they should speak to the FT Director. Similarly, access to certain over the counter medications easily accessed in the USA are difficult to access in Sweden. If you regularly take over the counter medication to combat pain (e.g. Advil, Ibuprofen, or illness), we suggest you bring your own supply. The EMERGE First Aid Kit will also have some supplies available for emergencies. 21 Field First Aid Kit First Aid Training First Aid training is not required for participation in EMERGE fieldwork however, it is the intent of the EMERGE EC to have a majority of FT members to hold current training certification (e.g. Basic First Aid/CPR, SOLO Wilderness first aid). Such certifications should be received before leaving for field work. Receipt of training should be noted in the Fieldwork Pre-Departure Checklist. FT members, regardless of whether they hold first aid certification themselves, should be aware of who does hold current certification within the FT. Certifications can be earned via American Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED training as well as via SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. FT members interested in acquiring first aid certification should contact the FT Director for more information on how certification costs can be covered (either by the FT member’s supervisor or EMERGE). A fully stocked First Aid Kit will be brought to The Villa at Stordalen Mire and left in a central location for the duration of the field campaign. On the final day of the field campaign, the first aid kit will be brought back to ANS and inventoried so that supplies can be replenished for the following field season. Individual FT members are encouraged to carry a more basic personal first aid kit with them for minor cuts, blisters, and make sure to carry any medication that they should require. Components of Fully Stocked First Aid Kit The following is a suggested list of contents for the Fully Stocked First Aid Kit to be carried in the field by the FT Leader. This list is courtesy of the NASA ABoVE program. Wound and Injury Care Drug and Relief 1. Hydrocortisone ointment 2. Burn Free ointment 3. Povidone-Iodine prep pads 4. Antibiotic ointment 5. Alcohol prep pads 6. Antiseptic towelettes 1. Emergen-C packet for electrolytes 2. Antacids 3. Diphenhydramine 4. Anti-diarrheal 5. Acetaminophen 6. Aspirin 7. Ibuprofen Bandages and Dressing Instruments 1. Steri-strips pack of 6 1. Irrigation Syringe 22 2. Butterfly closures 3. Band aids (regular & large) 4. Band aids (for fingertip and knuckle) 5. Elastic (Ace) bandage 6. Cohesive (Ace) bandage 7. Roll of tape 8. Triangular bandage (large) 9. 4” dressing x 2 10. 3” dressing x 2 11. Roll of Kerlix (gauze bandage roll) 12. Gauze pads (varying sizes) 13. Moldable Split (SAM) 14. Compression Bandage (Tourniquet) 15. QuickClot packages 2. Splinter forceps 3. Paramedic shears Miscellaneous 1. Emergency Blanket 2. Pen Light 3. Thermometer 4. Safety Pins Documentation 1. First Aid Report Form 2. Sharpie Personal Protective Equipment 1. Pair of nonlatex gloves 2. Hand sanitizer 3. Face shield/Face Mask 4. Moleskin/Blister Care Components of Personal First Aid Kit The following is a suggested list of contents for the small Personal First Aid Kit each FT Member is encouraged to carry with them in addition to the Fully Stocked First Aid Kit. Certain items such as antibacterial ointment and Moleskin can be bought in bulk by EMERGE and distributed to FT members as needed. More personal items such as chapstick, hand sanitizer and ibuprofen/advil should be acquired by the FT Members to meet their personal needs. 1. Set of band aids in varying sizes 2. Antibacterial ointment 3. Chapstick 4. Moleskin (for blisters) 5. Hand sanitizer 6. Ibuprofen/Advil/Tylenol 7. Personal Thermometer 8. Prefered Cold/Flu medications (e.g. fever reducers like Ibuprofen and Tylenol, Nyquil/Dayquil) 9. Sunscreen 10. Any medication that you might need for the day Mental Health in the Field 29 The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission declares that no employee can be discriminated against by their employer based on race, color, national origin, sex (which includes pregnancy, sexual orientation or gender identity), age, disability and genetic information (e.g., familial medical history). The National Science Foundation follows that any awardee of funding from NSF must comply with current civil rights laws. When evaluating risk for EMERGE fieldwork, an inclusive risk assessment (EMERGE-IRA) will be performed following the model presented by Prior-Jones et al. (2020) (example can be seen in Table 1 below). An EMERGE-IRA table is located in Appendix II (see Appendix II. Inclusive Risk Assessment Table) of this document, modified from the table presented by Prior-Jones et al. (2020) which lists hazards, risk level pre-mitigation implementation, and risk mitigation strategies. Every field season, members of EMERGE who are familiar with the field site (including EMERGE EC) will review the EMERGE-IRA for fieldwork tasks to be performed that season (see Inclusive Risk Assessment Table in Appendix II). This will comprise of the listing of potential hazards that could be seen in (or on route to) the field, paying particular attention the unique experiences of marginalized communities within the geosciences (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women and researchers with disabilities; Anadu et al., 2020, Marshall & Thatcher, 2019; Olcott & Downen, 2020). They will review suggested mitigation strategies based on the likelihood each hazard may occur. Once the EMERGE-IRA is filled out, FTMs will review it and be able to provide anonymous feedback on its completeness. The EMERGE-IRA will be discussed in tandem with the results of the anonymous survey in detail at one of several PreDeparture Meetings. Mitigation strategies can be updated based on the discussions that occur in those meetings. It is essential for it to be understood that this Inclusive Risk Assessment is not to be used as a release of liability for EMERGE, but as a tool for discussing risk among FT Members and how risk level might vary depending on the identities of the FT Members. A conceptual model of risk is used by EMERGE to evaluate the level or risk (likelihood of occurrence multiplied by severity of outcome), where the more likely a hazard will occur and the larger severity of the outcome will make for a larger risk (Figure 6; Prior-Jones et al., 2020). The model used by EMERGE is based on that which was published by Prior-Jones et al. (2020) but adds ‘psychological effects’ to the risk model. Fieldwork hazards can not only result in serious physical effects but also psychological effects (Figure 6). The need to reduce both physical risk and psychological risk should be considered equally important when discussing mitigation strategies. 30 During the Pre-Departure Meeting(s), mitigation strategies should be planned based on the highest risk level a category has been assigned. Then FTMs should consider the suggested mitigation strategies and determine whether the risk level can be lowered for a particular risk category. If risk remains at a medium level (Orange) for a particular task, additional mitigation strategies should be implemented. If risk remains high (Dark Red), then the activity should be reviewed by the EMERGE EC and determined whether such tasks should be pursued (Prior-Jones et al., 2020). 31 Table 1. Example of the Inclusive Risk Assessment Table. Each potential hazard is detailed with their associated problems, the risk level before any mitigation strategies are applied and details of the mitigation strategies to be applied. An expanded table is available in Appendix II. Inclusive Risk Assessment Table. HAZARD CATEGORY ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS RISK LEVEL PREMITIGATION MITIGATION STRATEGIES NOTES Hazard A Problems A, B, C Strategies A, B, C The EMERGE-IRA should be reviewed by the FT during the Pre-Departure Field Team Meeting. Edits should be made if FTMs feel certain risks have not been considered. Each FTM should be given the opportunity to reassess their willingness to participate in fieldwork after reviewing the risks . If FTMs still wish to participate in fieldwork, they should acknowledge they understand the risks in their Pre-Departure Checklist. SAFETY POLICIES EMERGE Field Team and REU Sickness and infectious disease Policy: We want everyone to enjoy their research experience with EMERGE this summer. This includes staying safe and as healthy as possible. However, we do know that infectious diseases like RSV, flu and COVID are still here. We have developed a policy based on the CDC recommendations (dated April 4, 2024, and subject to change if their recommendations do in response to new information), which is also informed by the limitations of the housing arrangements in Sweden. Self-Monitoring for illnesses: We expect everyone to be self-monitoring for any contagious illness, e.g. flu, RSV, strep-throat, Covid-19, stomach virus etc. We expect everyone to test for Covid-19 per guidelines below and if positive, to follow the location-specific policies outlined. We need to minimize the spread of all diseases, not just Covid-19. If you have cold/flu symptoms but test negative for Covid-19 please use common sense 32 and refrain from meal prepping for others, sharing meals indoors without a mask, and engaging in close contact unmasked activities like sauna. Supplies: Anyone needing to test at a frequency higher than described in this policy should procure their own tests. Our emergency first aid kit will be stocked with an O2 sensor, thermometer and common over-the-counter cold/flu US medicines. We encourage you to bring your own cold/flu kit with any preferred items you would want if sick, including your own thermometer. The local village has limited supplies, and over-the-counter medicines available in Europe differ substantially from those in the US. See the following sections: Components of Fully Stocked First Aid Kit and Components of Personal First Aid Kit of the handbook. Guidelines for testing for COVID-19: ● REU participants: Participants will test for COVID-19 if symptomatic (according to CDC). You will test upon arrival at UNH, prior to attending the first day of the summer program. We will also test before leaving for Sweden and thereafter on an individual basis if you develop cold/flu-like symptoms. The same protocol will be followed when returning to UNH for the last 2 weeks of the program. ● All other EMERGE members: You are expected to test prior to leaving for Sweden. ● Further testing will occur if you develop symptoms. ● While masking is no longer mandatory, individuals who prefer to wear masks for their personal comfort and safety are fully supported in their decision. We do however highlight that communication for some people can be challenging or impossible when others are wearing masks so please be aware of who you are communicating with. We continue to encourage everyone to practice good hygiene and remain mindful of the health and well-being of our community. Testing positive for COVID-19 in Sweden: If you test positive for COVID-19, once you are fever free (without medication) for 24 hours, feeling better and symptom free you can resume normal activities and should wear a mask around others for 5 days. During the period of fever or worsening symptoms you need to isolate. We define isolation as: wearing a mask when outside of your room (i.e. for trips to the bathroom and going 33 outside), and limiting being around others as much as possible. You can go outside but should refrain from spending time indoors with others (e.g., refraining from going into station common areas, lab spaces, saunas etc.). When in common spaces, you must be masked. You must inform the senior lead present, who as defined in the Roles and Responsibilities Section of the Handbook, maintains necessary medical information for team members while traveling. If supplies are needed from off-site, team leads will pick them up or coordinate pick-up by teammates. You may not prepare your own meals in the kitchen when others are there (these could be prepared by teammates) or go in the field during the isolation period. We will assess you daily to ensure that if needed, we will take you to the hospital. In case of sickness that requires a hospital visit: Response to all emergency situations are detailed in the Emergency Response Plan and Appendix III sections of handbook and are reviewed with all field going personnel before travel. In case of longer term recovery periods as might be the case for other injuries etc. the person involved will consult with a medical doctor, the field team lead in place and their emergency contact to determine their options for departing the station before their planned date. If your roommate or roommates have cold symptoms: The research station will be at capacity and therefore lacks isolation rooms. This means that each room is essentially a pod. If one or more of your roommates has cold-like symptoms, there is a chance that you will become ill. To mitigate spread outside the pod, we will require that anyone with a roommate having cold symptoms, but not symptomatic themselves, wear a mask in public spaces, and take their meals either outside or in their rooms, until everyone in the room is out of isolation. Testing positive for COVID-19 at UNH: REU members have their own rooms while at UNH, so if you test positive there, you will follow similar guidelines as in Sweden. You can acquire take out meals from the dining hall or request assistance from one of your teammates. If this occurs during the window of your flight to Sweden, we will do our best to reschedule your travel for once you are 24 hrs fever free, feeling better and have no symptoms. Field Day No Go Criteria No Go Criteria for a given Field Day will be somewhat dependent on what work is planned (coring vs. UAS flying vs. gas sampling etc.). At the Fieldwork Debrief and 34 Planning Meeting the previous evening for each fieldwork day, the weather will be checked (see Expected Weather for websites) and discussed with the FT in addition to the tasks the FT would like to complete. If the weather will make the FT’s tasks dangerous to complete (e.g., raining on UAS flight day) then FT task’s will be altered to accommodate the weather. If the weather is severe enough to make all FT tasks dangerous to complete, then fieldwork should be canceled for that day. Weather can change rapidly in the field. If the FT finds the weather has changed in a way to make tasks unsafe to complete while they have been out in the field, they will discuss as a group whether to return to the Research Station early. No Go Criteria: Illness If a FT member is suffering from an illness that requires them to isolate (see EMERGE Field Team and REU Sickness and infectious disease Policy) or they feel too ill to safely and effectively conduct their fieldwork (e.g. headache/migraine), then the FT member should inform the FT Leader that they will abstain from fieldwork that day to rest. Non-Fieldwork Related (e.g., Leisure Time) Safety Procedures/Expectations FTMs should remember they are representatives of their institution and of the EMERGE Institute both during fieldwork and after-hours. Alcohol Consumption Since we are here for a short period of time for the purpose of collecting data, every field day counts. Therefore, members of the FT are expected to consume alcohol responsibly during After-Hours. Missing fieldwork due to a hangover will not be tolerated. Swedish cultural approaches to alcohol should be discussed during the FT Pre-Departure Meeting (see Pre-Departure Field Team Meeting section for more details). If FT members are using the saunas at the station (see the Available Facilities section and Saunas at The Research Station), they are strongly encouraged to refrain from consuming any alcohol during this time. Field Team Members who are On-Call Drivers are responsible during their shift for being able to drive someone to the hospital in the event of an emergency, therefore they can consume no alcohol/drugs/medications/supplements that can cause drowsiness and/or explicitly caution against driving while on said medication. Field Team Members who are On-Call Supports are allowed to consume alcohol/medications/supplements that may cause drowsiness responsibly during their shift but must be in a mindset to make sound decisions during their shift. 35 Side Trips A common side trip that requires some driving is for folks to drive across the border to Norway but rules regarding tolls/border crossings with a rental car have changed in recent years so make sure to check with the rental car company before driving across the border. Side trips that do not require a car (e.g., hiking around Abisko) are encouraged to be done in pairs but if not, the individual will make sure to communicate their plans (including planned route and expected return time) BEFORE they depart to the Field Team messaging group (WhatsApp). Individuals going on a side trip should make sure they always have a working communication device with them. One communication device is required for each side trip group. EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN If a FTM has a medical emergency while in the field2 the following steps should be taken: 1.) In the event of an emergency contact Emergency Services (see Table A. 2; Local Emergency Numbers section) 2.) The FTM who contacted emergency services will inform the FT Leader, On-Call Driver and On-Call Support an incident has occurred. If needed, the On-Call Driver will be called upon to transport the person to the hospital. 3.) The FTL will alert the FTD and EMERGE EC of the incident as appropriate (see Table A. 2; EMERGE Contact section) 4.) The FTL should contact the International Insurance Company that covers the FTM to seek advice if possible (see the Institution International Travel tab within the EMERGE Field Team Travel Information 2024 Google Doc) 5.) If the FTM is unable to contact their institution, the FTL will report the incident to the FTM’s institution, via their reporting teams (see Table A. 3) 6.) The Emergency Contact of the FTM will be informed of the incident by the FT Leader. 2 This procedure also applies for emergencies that occur while on route to the field site and/or at the lodging as well. 36 In cases of an emergency involving acts of violence3 (e.g. sexual assault) follow the steps below: 1.) The FTM should be immediately moved to a safe location if possible. If the emergency involves an attack by another person, make sure that the FTM is separated from their attacker. 2.) In the event of an emergency contact Emergency Services (see Table A. 2; Local Emergency Numbers section) 3.) The FTM who contacted emergency services will inform the FT Leader, On-Call Driver and On-Call Support an incident has occurred. If needed, the On-Call Driver will be called upon to transport the person to the hospital. 4.) The FTL will alert the FTD and EMERGE EC of the incident as appropriate (see Table A. 2; EMERGE Contact section) 5.) The FTL should contact the International Insurance Company that covers the FTM to seek advice if possible (see the Institution International Travel tab within the EMERGE Field Team Travel Information 2024 Google Doc) 6.) If the FTM is unable to contact their institution, the FTL will report the incident to the FTM’s institution, via their reporting teams (see Table A. 3) 7.) The Emergency Contact of the FTM will be informed of the incident by the FT Leader. 3 If the FTL is the instigator of the emergency, the victim is encouraged to tell the FTD and another member of the FT and that person will take the place of ‘FTL’ in the list above. 37 REFERENCES AND RESOURCES Abeyta, A., Fernandes, A., Mahon, R., & Swanson, T. (2021). The True Cost of Field Education is a Barrier to Diversifying Geosciences (preprint). Earth Sciences. https://doi.org/10.31223/X5BG70 Anadu, J., Ali, H., & Jackson, C. (2020). Ten Steps to Protect BIPOC Scholars in the Field. Eos, 101. https://doi.org/10.1029/2020EO150525 Chaudhary, V. B., & Berhe, A. A. (2020). Ten simple rules for building an antiracist lab. PLOS Computational Biology, 16(10), e1008210. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008210 Cronin, M. (2021, March). Building a Better Fieldwork Future Workshop: Preventing Harassment & Assault in the Field. Oral Presentation presented at the 2021 Fieldwork Toolkit Leadership Training Series. Retrieved from https://training.ucr.edu/fieldworkleadership CIRC. (2021). Field Safety Guidelines and Checklist. Climate Impacts Research Center, Umeå University. Retrieved from https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5876205e2e69cfaf7c9fe5a4/t/5e41da141c 6ca3300b56e28a/1581373974658/CIRC+- +ANS+Field+Safety+Checklist+Version+1_1+20200208.pdf\ Demery, A.-J. C., & Pipkin, M. A. (2021). Safe fieldwork strategies for at-risk individuals, their supervisors and institutions. Nature Ecology & Evolution, 5(1), 5–9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-01328-5 DU O&ESO. (2021). Duke University Fieldwork Safety Plan. Duke University Occupational & Environmental Safety Office. Retrieved from https://www.safety.duke.edu/sites/default/files/FieldworkSafetyPlan_0.docx Giles, S., Jackson, C., & Stephen, N. (2020). Barriers to fieldwork in undergraduate geoscience degrees. Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, 1(2), 77–78. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43017-020-0022-5 ILGA World: Zhan Chiam, Sandra Duffy, Matilda González Gil, Lara Goodwin, and Nigel Timothy Mpemba Patel, Trans Legal Mapping Report 2019: Recognition before the law (Geneva: ILGA World, 2020). https://ilga.org/trans-legal-mapping-report ILGA World: Lucas Ramon Mendos, Kellyn Botha, Rafael Carrano Lelis, Enrique López de la Peña, Ilia Savelev and Daron Tan, State-Sponsored Homophobia 2020: Global Legislation Overview Update (Geneva: ILGA, December 2020). https://ilga.org/state-sponsored-homophobia-report John, C. M., & Khan, S. B. (2018). Mental health in the field. Nature Geoscience, 11(9), 618–620. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-018-0219-0 Kavanagh, M. (2017, July 12). 10 things to know before visiting Sweden. CNN. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/sweden-things-toknow/index.html Khan, S. B., & John, C. M. (2021, March). Mental Health in the Field: Best Practices and Pitfalls. Oral Presentation presented at the 2021 Fieldwork Toolkit Leadership Training Series. Retrieved from https://training.ucr.edu/fieldworkleadership 38 Lay, C. (2021, March). Trip Planning: Risk Management for Field Settings. Oral Presentation presented at the 2021 Fieldwork Toolkit Leadership Training Series. Retrieved from https://training.ucr.edu/fieldworkleadership Lindeberg, R., & Ummelas, O. (2021, May 11). The Far Right Is Ready For a Slice of Real Power in Sweden. Bloomberg.Com. Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-11/the-far-right-is-ready-toclaim-a-slice-of-real-power-in-sweden Marshall, A., & Thatcher, S. (2019). Creating Spaces for Geoscientists with Disabilities to Thrive. Eos, 100. https://doi.org/10.1029/2019EO136434 Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (2016). Diplomatic Guide. The Protocol Department. Retrieved from https://www.government.se/government-of-sweden/ministry-forforeign-affairs/diplomatic-portal/diplomatic-guide/ Morales, N., Bisbee O’Connell, K., McNulty, S., Berkowitz, A., Bowser, G., Giamellaro, M., & Miriti, M. N. (2020). Promoting inclusion in ecological field experiences: Examining and overcoming barriers to a professional rite of passage. The Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America, 101(4). https://doi.org/10.1002/bes2.1742 Olcott, A., & Downen, M. (2020). The Challenges of Fieldwork for LGBTQ+ Geoscientists. Eos, 101. https://doi.org/10.1029/2020EO148200 Pipkin, M. A., & Demery, A.-J. (2021, March). Creating, Enforcing, and Promoting Safe Fieldwork Culture: Strategies aimed at protecting diverse researchers. Oral Presentation presented at the 2021 Fieldwork Toolkit Leadership Training Series. Retrieved from https://training.ucr.edu/fieldworkleadership Palinkas, L. A., & Suedfeld, P. (2008). Psychological effects of polar expeditions. The Lancet, 371(9607), 153–163. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61056-3 Prior-Jones, M., Pinnion, J., Millet, M.-A., Bagshaw, E., Fagereng, A., & Ballinger, R. (2020). An inclusive risk assessment tool for travel and fieldwork (other). oral. https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu2020-7678 Quantum Learning. (2021). Start by Talking: Power of Effective Apologies. Retrieved December 13, 2021, from https://www.supercamp.com/it-starts-by-talking-thepower-of-effective-apologies-in-communication/ UCB EH&S. (2021). UC Berkeley Field Safety Plan. UC Berkeley Office of Environment, Health and Safety. Retrieved from https://ehs.berkeley.edu/fieldresearch 45 Political Civil unrest, strikes, etc. Beyond regular precautions taken during travel (e.g., avoid walking alone at night, avoid crowded areas) no additional mitigation strategies are needed. According to International SOS, some demonstrations have occurred that have led to some rioting/unrest though these are controlled quickly. Terrorism bombings, security alters, terror attacks Beyond regular precautions taken during travel (e.g., avoid walking alone at night, avoid crowded areas) no additional mitigation strategies are needed. According to International SOS, risk of terrorism is low, despite the suspected presence of extremist groups. INFRASTRUCTURE 46 Medical Capabilities hospital proximity, methods of payment for treatment, access to doctor Given the remote location of Stordalen Mire, care will be taken to avoid medical emergencies. A fully stocked First Aid kit will be carried in the field by the FTLr and FTMs are strongly encouraged to carry with them their own First Aid Kits. See the Field First Aid Kit section of this document for more details. In case of an emergency (e.g. medical emergency or acts of violence/harassment, FTMs will follow the EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN) According to International SOS, the following is a suggested list of Vaccinations and Immunizations: Routine Vaccinations should be current. These include: Measles-MumpsRubella, Polio, Tetanus-DiphtheriaPertussis, and Varicella Annual influenza vaccination Hepatitis A & B are recommended for at-risk individuals (gay, bisexual men, and men who have sex with other men; see US CDC for more details). International travelers should encounter little trouble getting required medical treatment. Most doctors speak English. Contaminated Food allergies, food poisoning FTMs will take care to properly handle, store, prepare, cook their food. According to International SOS, there is an outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup that can be transmitted via contaminated food. Careful selection, preparation, and cooking of food is suggested. 47 Contaminated Water & drinking water transmission of diseases via contaminated drinking water FTMs will drink water only from faucets at ANS. FTMs will not drink water from stagnant water though they can drink safely from streams and rivers as long as they are flowing. Utilities Compatibility of equipment, voltage FTMs are encouraged to acquire the correct adapters and voltage converters for plugs in Sweden. If they do not already have an adapter, they should contact their advisor or the EMERGE EC to see if one can be made available to them. Sweden has two types of plugs: Type C & Type F (Figure A.1). Sweden voltage supply is 230V and 50Hz Figure A. 1. Image of Type C and Type F plugs present in Sweden. From: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/advice-for-you/whentravelling/travel-adaptor-for-sweden/ Transportation local driving standards, safety belts, hazardous terrain Beyond regular precautions taken during travel (e.g., driving the speed limit, wearing a seatbelt at all times) no additional mitigation strategies are needed. NATURAL 48 Climate conditions Exposure to adverse weather (extreme heat, cold, humidity, rain/snow, lightning) FTMs should check the weather the night before each field day and share this information at the Fieldwork Planning Meeting. FTMs should make sure to plan plenty of layers (refer to the Field Gear List for more details). FTMs are encouraged to monitor their food and water intake throughout the day to ensure they have adequate energy. FTMs should make sure to wear sunscreen! Suggested websites to check weather: 1. www.yr.no 2. www.smhi.se Contact (with animals) Bear, Moose, Reindeer, wolves, bites/stings/ rabies FTMs should remain alert and aware of their surroundings during the field day. They should take note of any wildlife they see in the distance and move away from them if necessary. FTMs are encouraged to read up about how to stay safe around wild animals. See the following websites for more information: https://sweden.se/nature/how-tosurvive-in-swedish-nature https://sweden.se/climate/nature/whichis-swedens-most-dangerous-animal 49 Contact (with insects) bites/stings, Lyme's disease, malaria, Malaria, Zika Virus FTMs are encouraged to take precautions (wear long pants, tall socks, long sleeves) and routinely check for ticks at the end of each field day and avoid unpasteurized milk. According to International SOS, Tick Borne encephalitis: No Vaccine is available in the US (only Canada and Europe). There is currently no risk of Malaria or Zika Virus infection in Sweden Natural Disasters flooding, tornado, earthquake, snowstorms No mitigation strategies are needed. According to International SOS, natural disaster threat is mainly a concern during the winter months where heavy snow can result in vehicle crashes and delays in public transport. CULTURAL Local attitudes toward protected classes/ minorities in geoscience research (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women and researchers with disabilities) Racism, sexual harassment, inappropriate comments etc., unequal treatment FTMs will be encouraged to always travel in pairs whenever possible. EMERGE EC will provide FTMs with documentation that outlines the goals of the field campaign that they can show to anyone who asks. FTMs will tell other members where they are going and when they expect to return (via WhatsApp Group) if they leave the ANS campus on their own (e.g., to go on a run/walk). Trans Legislation (see page 167, ILGA World, 2020): ● Amendments make it possible for Trans people to change their names ● Amendments make it possible for Trans people to change their gender markers on official documentation. LGBTQ+ Legislation (see table on page. 329, ILGA World, 2020b): According to this LGBTQ+ Danger Index, Sweden is ranked the third safest country for LGBTQ+ travel. Nationalism: 50 Sweden Democrats (the nationalist party) is growing in popularity, with immigration being a polarizing topic within Sweden (Lindeberg & Ummelas, 2021). Local Culture customs, dress, religion, behavior FTMs are required to read the following articles about Swedish Culture and Sámi culture before departure. SEE SECTIONS Sweden vs. the USA and Sápmi and the Sámi people. Legal differences local codes/guidance, local statute If for any reason someone needs to be taken to the hospital after hours, one member of the field team (grad student, faculty, or staff, not an undergrad or REU student) is to be considered ‘on call’ every night and should drink no alcohol when they are on call (see On-Call Driver & In Sweden, driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.02% is considered a crime (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2016). 51 On-Call Support Field Team Members). HAZARDOUS ACTIVITIES Fieldwork/ research working in remote field location, international site, time zone adjustment, isolation from friends/family, carrying heavy equipment, walking on wet boardwalk, proximity to lakes/ponds FTMs are encouraged to speak freely about their adjustment to fieldwork in this remote location. Each Fieldwork Planning Meeting will hold space for FTMs to share how they are coping mentally with isolation, time zone adjustment, interaction with fellow scientists etc. Hazardous Substances/ chemicals contact with acid (sample storage), pressurized gas tanks, exposure to liquid nitrogen FTMs should make sure to be alert when in a room containing pressurized gas tanks (or outside the Shack Instrument Shelter at Stordalen Mire, where pressurized gas tanks are stored for the autochambers). If FTMs 52 need to prep sample vials for storage using acid, they should wear protective gloves and wash their hands when they are done. Wear protective gloves when handling samples used with liquid nitrogen. Other risks specific to this trip or associated activities COVID-19 exposure 53 III. Appendix III. Sweden Emergency Services and Contact Information Table A. 2 Emergency Services and Contact Information for the Stordalen Mire field site. This section should be updated annually as new information arises. Emergency Contact Information Local Contact ANS/CIRC Staff. Provide a copy of this document. [Name] EMERGE Project Contact [Name] – [Email address] Local Emergency Numbers Ambulance, Fire, Police: 112 (call) 0046-63 107 112 (via SMS if call does not go through) Local Number for Health Care Advice: 1177 (available 24 hours) Be Prepared to share the following information with Emergency Services : a. Where are you? Description and name of the location, GPS or map coordinates, or the position, distance and direction from a known map position or obvious landmark. b. What has happened and the number of injured. c. Your name and Abisko Scientific Research Station d. Name and details of the injured person, including, age, sex, previous relevant medical conditions. Nearest Hospital Kiruna Hospital, Thulegatan 29, 981 31 Kiruna, Sweden +46 980 730 00; 1 hour 6-minute drive from Stordalen, (85.6km) Details regarding Facilities and Services at this hospital can be found here: https://www.norrbotten.se/kirunasjukhus Nearest US Embassy Embassy of the United States of America Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31, SE-115 89 Stockholm Tel: 08-783 53 00 Fax: 08-661 19 64 Operating Hours: MF 08:00 – 16:30 The Embassy is closed on US and Swedish Holidays Nearby Facilities As mentioned, there is no running water available at Stordalen Mire. There is an outhouse for solid waste only. Nearest gas station is in Abisko, a few hundred yards from the ANS on the way to the field site. 54 IV. Appendix IV. Incident Reporting Procedures by Institution Table A. 3 Table of reporting procedures for Medical Emergencies and Incidents of Bias and Harassment for the primary institutions of each FTM. This table should be updated annually as the institutional affiliations change and more are added. Reporting Procedures by Institution Medical Emergency Reporting: Title IV Incident Reporting Campus Contact University of New Hampshire Accident/Injury/Illness Report Form (to be submitted by the injured person within 24 hours of occurrence) Incident Report Form (of all incidents of (1) discrimination and discriminatory harassment, (2) bias and/or hate crime, (3) retaliation, (4) sexual harassment and/or violence; for students). Privileged Confidential Support Services (for students) Title IX Coordinator: Interim: [Name], [Email address] ● UNH Police Dispatch Phone: (603) 862-1427 ● UNH SHARPP 24-hour Help Line: 1-603-862-SAFE (7233) ● International SOS Alarm Center (for international travel): +1-215-942-8226 University of Arizona Injury, incident, claims reporting while traveling abroad (form should be filled out and submitted by home department on injured person’s behalf). Incident reporting: incidents of discrimination against employee, visitor, contractor or student. Title IX Coordinator: [Name]; [email protected]; 520621-9449 ● UoA Police Department, Non-Emergency Phone: (520)- 621-8273 The Ohio State University Worker’s Compensation Reporting Links International Risk Management at OSU Link to Title IX Office. Contact: