It was a day of great sadness when we learned of the passing of Dr. Maya Bhatia,  biogeochemist, arctic climate researcher, and associate professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences in the Faculty of Science, on August 16 in Grise Fiord (Aujuittuq), Nunavut.  We offer our condolences to family, friends, colleagues, and those who considered her a mentor.

There is an ongoing investigation being undertaken by the Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) in Nunavut.  The WSCC requested the University of Alberta complete their own internal fatality investigation. This has been completed and the report submitted to WSCC.  The University field research community has been tasked with implementing many of the corrective actions outlined in that report.  

Three committees comprised of field researchers, graduate students, and safety advisors will each tackle a share of the work that has to be done before the start of the 2024 field season. 

We will endeavour to keep you informed through this newsletter as to the initiatives and changes that will be coming. 

Although most field projects have wrapped up for the winter months, many labs will continue to collect data through the winter.

Remember in preparing for winter fieldwork, do the following:

● Review your hazard assessments and make sure to identify and control all hazards arising from the change in weather, temperatures, etc.
● Check out the HSE Cold Stress Program to help with hazard management
● Have the Alberta Emergency Alerts app on your phone
● Check out Environment Canada's Public Weather Alerts before you go
● Monitor the 511 Road Reports for the duration of your winter field project
● Make sure your U of A-owned vehicle is winterized and has undergone a thorough maintenance check and needed repairs, if any.  See our previous newsletter for tips on winterizing your vehicle. 

● See the Vehicle Winter Survival Kit infographic to the left and prepare your own!

A snowmobile course is usually held at the beginning of January when we are sure to have enough snowfall. Please email fieldoff@ualberta.ca if you use a snowmobile for your winter research and require training. 

We rent satellite phones, inReach devices, first aid kits, and AEDs at cost recovery prices.  We do have a limited amount of phones activated so please give us 48 hours notice.

Sat Phones: $35.00 per week plus usage fees

InReach Devices: $25.00/week (15K plan) or $30/week (Unlimited data plan )

First Aid Kits: $6.00/week.

AEDs: free

The South Campus Storage Lot (southwest of the Saville Centre) has storage containers and cages for storing combustibles and most field equipment is stored there.

All users of the lot must request access online. 

If you have any questions or require our advice on Field Activity Plans, hazard assessments, training, etc., please email fieldoff@ualberta.ca 

The Firearms policy is being revised by UAPS under Facilities and Operations. 

There will be mandatory annual firearms training required (both Possession and Acquisition License and hands-on training from a third party).  There are ongoing meetings with stakeholders.  Please email fieldoff@ualberta.ca if you use firearms in your field work.