Water Resources--Office of Water Quality

9.3 TRANSPORTATION

Various modes of transportation are used to reach field sites. Each type of transportation comes with specific guidelines for safe operation, for which appropriate training must be completed before leaving for the field. Training requirements are described in the USGS Handbook 445-2-H and are provided by office or regional safety officials. Perform a safety inspection on all transportation equipment before using. Safety inspection checklists are found in USGS Handbook 445-1-H, chap. 12.

9.3.1 ROAD VEHICLES AND TRAILERS

Passenger cars, vans, and 4-wheel-drive vehicles can differ in operation and in safety features, depending on the vehicle's age, make, and model. Become familiar with all operating systems of the vehicle before you leave for the field---test operation of lights, locks, seat belts, windows, 4-wheel drive and winch, and hood release.

" Musts" that apply to all USGS employees driving government vehicles:

Have a valid U.S. State driver's license.

Take a course in driver safety---the current requirement is to take the course every 3 years.

Inspect all vehicles before use.

Tie down or otherwise secure all cargo.

Wear a seat belt.

Obey all traffic regulations and operate your vehicle safely.

Inspect each vehicle thoroughly before departing from the office (USGS Handbook 445-I-H, chap. 12): discovering that the 4-wheel drive is not working when you are in the backwoods can result in considerable inconvenience and place you in a dangerous situation.

Check that your vehicle is equipped with the proper safety equipment (see 9.11.2).

Create checklists specific to each vehicle and (or) each type of sampling trip to make the inspection process routine.

Towing a trailer or equipment with your vehicle requires additional planning, caution, and proficiency in driving.

Vehicles and trailers vary in maximum load capacity.

Vehicles and trailers must be compatible and have a matching hitch ball and coupling.

Trailers are required to have standard safety equipment such as safety chains (placed in an "x" under the coupling), lights, brakes (if applicable), and load-securing devices.

Be aware that air turbulence from passing vehicles can cause your trailer to sway.

Before towing, consult USGS Handbook 445-1-H, chap. 14, p. 145, for additional guidance.

Drive slower.

	Disengage the vehicle's automatic "overdrive gear" option when towing.
	Maintain extra following and stopping distance to allow for the increased load. Loads must be balanced.
	Do not exceed the maximum recommended load capacity. (Check owner's manuals or contact vehicle or trailer manufacturers for this information).

Obtain the training that will help you handle potentially dangerous driving conditions; for example, wet, icy, or snow-filled roads; high wind velocity; glare from bright sunshine; poor visibility from dust storms, fog, or heavy precipitation. In very hot climates, keep the windows slightly open when the vehicle is parked to avoid shattering windows from the heat. To avoid asphyxiation from carbon monoxide, never sit or work in a closed vehicle with the engine running for more than a few minutes.

9.3.2 WATERCRAFT

Boats are used extensively by USGS personnel for sampling the quality of water in rivers and lakes. All boats must carry equipment as required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Checklists are useful for ensuring that all the proper equipment is in place (see 9.11.3). WRD Memorandum No. 96.25 and the DOI Departmental Manual 485 provide regulations for watercraft safety.

Head back to harbor in the event of a storm. You are required to follow U.S. Coast Guard regulations for waterway safety and etiquette. Carry extra lines, foul-weather gear, and backup equipment. Remember, all cargo must be secured. For additional information see USGS Handbook 445-1-H, chap. 17, and USGS Handbook 445-2-H, chap. 16.

9.3.3 AIRCRAFT

Airplanes and helicopters are sometimes used for sampling trips to remote areas. Pilots and passengers must follow stringent guidelines when using these means of transportation. Any sampling activity involving the use of aircraft must be carefully planned and coordinated with USGS safety officials, the DOI Office of Aircraft Services, and appropriate local and regional safety officials, as described in USGS Handbook 445-1-H, chap. 16, and USGS Handbook 445-2-H, chap. 13. WRD Memorandum No. 95.49 provides an example of a safety plan for aircraft use.

9.3.4 OTHER METHODS OF TRANSPORTATION

Additional methods of transportation include snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, horses or mules, and backpacking. Evaluate and practice these methods before use, taking care to consider the measures necessary for a safe trip and making sure to obtain proper training. USGS Handbook 445-1-H, chap. 14, and USGS Handbook 445-2-H, chap. 14, provide more detailed information.

Section 9.4

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	Have a valid U.S. State driver's license.
	Take a course in driver safety---the current requirement is to take the course every 3 years.
	Inspect all vehicles before use.
	Tie down or otherwise secure all cargo.
	Wear a seat belt.
	Obey all traffic regulations and operate your vehicle safely.

	Check that your vehicle is equipped with the proper safety equipment (see 9.11.2).
	Create checklists specific to each vehicle and (or) each type of sampling trip to make the inspection process routine.