Working in Remote Locations
3/23/2020
Many of today’s work assignments call for working in remote areas. This may be performing geophysical surveys in a desert environment during the summer months where heat stress is a predominant concern or working at locations where the terrain poses slip, trip and fall hazards. In addition, carrying supplies only exacerbates conditions by increasing the likelihood of ergonomic challenges. Fall hazards may be encountered at steep embankments when a team may be trying to get to a specific location or even having to sample soils on the side of a cliff. Such obvious hazards need to be addressed and work should not proceed until everyone in the team feels that the controls are adequate to ensure the crews safety.
Remote work is defined as work that is isolated from the assistance of other people because of the location, time or nature of the work being done. Although the terms ‘remote’ and ‘isolated’ are often used synonymously, there are some key differences that managers, supervisors, as well as workers should be aware of. ‘Isolated work’ may involve work activities undertaken in an isolated area, which may be on or off site, either during or outside normal working hours. On the other hand, ‘remote work’ may involve work activities undertaken at a location removed from an office environment or main work location, where there are few people, and where communications and travel are difficult.
A worker may be considered remote even if other people may be close by. In some situations, a worker may be alone for a short period of time, while in other situations they may be on their own for days or weeks in a remote location. Workers may work remotely if they:
- Physically work alone
- Work separately from others
- Work at home
- Travel as part of work
- Work in geographical isolation
Remote working often involves working in isolated, unfamiliar locations such as woodlands. It’s therefore easy to get confused with directions, especially with no one to help guide you. This is one reason why the crew should have a map as well as other navigational equipment available.
The type of work that tends to be carried out within rural areas can often be manual. Standing on your feet for hours can cause fatigue, this can cause workers to make mistakes.
It’s always a good idea to keep a first aid kit handy. Small injuries can often be treated by supplies in an emergency kit.
Ensure you are wearing protective clothing and footwear that has good grip to help prevent slipping.
When working in remote areas, it’s not always easy to take a quick jaunt to the local shop. Therefore, make sure your crew is stocked up on food and water to keep everyone hydrated and energized throughout the day.
Weather conditions in many parts of the country can be unpredictable so be prepare for the worst. That may mean to get ready to cut your task early, even if there is more work to be done. We always have tomorrow (but a wrong decision could mean we don’t always have you!).
All personnel need to have appropriate training that is specific for the anticipated work. That includes training on how to deal with difficult situations that could be encountered
Of course, all safety and health rules, regulations and project plans need to address remote work activity hazards as well as their associated controls. All affected workers need to be aware of these measures while having input into all S&H procedures; thus, ensuring all parties have a positive attitude for the anticipated work
And everyone must understand the process for dealing any accident or illness that may occur while working in a remote location. This includes reporting work-related accidents, ill health or any health and safety concerns.
And the bottom line – if anyone is not comfortable performing a task, they should not be forced to do it. And this is especially relevant for working in a remote location.