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Ensure safe and permitted sampling site selection. Prioritize safety, accessibility, water depth, construction plans, historical sampling, chemical handling safety, and supervision. Follow specific safety considerations to mitigate risks during sampling. It includes tips on scouting sites, supervision during kid sampling, wading precautions, and chemical handling guidelines. Adhere to necessary safety procedures and precautions to protect yourself and the environment.
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Site Selection Considerations • Do I have permission to sample here? • Can I safely park and access the site? • Are there gates that might restrict access? • Is the water deep enough to support monitoring throughout the period? • Is the water too deep to access safely? • Is construction planned that will alter the site? • Am I sufficiently downstream of tributaries or discharges to allow intermixing of water? • Has historical sampling been performed there or nearby?
Site Scouting and Supervision Visit stream sampling site before taking kids to make sure it is accessible and safe! At least 2 adults should accompany kids during sampling, so that you can supervised closely. Set boundaries for kids before entering a stream (i.e., can’t go past this tree or this rock)
Safety Considerations • During high flow conditions, sampling should be postponed until it is less dangerous. Do not sample in unsafe conditions. • Avoid or use caution when wading in streams above the knee. • Samplers should exhibit caution in and around streams to reduce the threat of falling. Mossy rocks are slippery! Boone Creek, Clark Co. Low flow Boone Creek, Clark Co. High Flow!
Safety Considerations • Waders and specialized wading boots can be utilized. • Be aware of increased risk for frostbite or hypothermia in cold temperatures.
Safety Considerations • Exercise caution when handling aquatic life. Some organisms pinch, bite, etc. • Do not stick hands or feet under large objects. • All water bodies have the potential to be contaminated. Wash hands or apply hand sanitizer after sampling.
Safety Considerations • If the sampling location is on private property, secure permission from landowner beforehand. • Notify others of your whereabouts and carry a cell phone. • In general, use caution and be aware of your surroundings and location.
Handling Chemicals and Chemical Waste • Wear protective gloves when handling chemicals used in field test kits. • Empty chemicals into waste bottles (provided) and dump later in sinks that go to municipal sewage treatment plant.
Chemical Safety • What to do if you get a chemical on you: • For emergency first aid in the field, flush • affected area with large amounts of water • and seek medical attention immediately • Follow the first aid procedures found on • the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)