Page 97 - Risk Management for Outdoor Programs

equipment that can be brought to your location to assist in case of emergency. It is useful to know what types of equipment these groups may be able to provide, how to request it, how long it might take to arrive, and other factors that can be useful in times of need. Low-Resource Environments. Extra caution should be taken when relying on equipment to be provided by others in low-resource environments. These environments include low-income countries, areas of middle-income countries, and regions that may be subject to natural disasters such as earthquakes or typhoons that can damage transportation, medical, security, communications, and other infrastructure. In these situations, vehicle transportation, medical supplies, rescue equipment and other items may be of limited availability or dubious quality. In some situations it may be prudent to do on-site inspections of equipment and facilities (such as hospital departments) to verify what might realistically be available in time of need, and to develop contingency plans with this information in mind. 8.16. ADMINISTRATIVE AND MANAGERIAL CONTEXTS Although the focus of this text is risk management in the outdoor context, a brief mention of safety in the office and administrative environment can be made. Risks present in offices, staff and participant housing, gear storage areas and other facilities should be considered. This includes engineering controls, reporting requirements, and many other occupational safety and health concerns, along with zoning and building codes. Specific examples include safe lifting, fire control, ergonomics involving computer workstations, and repetitive stress injuries, among others. Occupational safety and health and other government agencies can provide direction and support for addressing these topics. Chapter 8: Equipment 87