- People include attitudes and health problems of the crew and visitors such as allergies, infections and injuries;
- Places include the climate such as danger from insects and animals, heat stroke or frostbite, as well as distance from hospitals and restrooms; and
- Things include sharp-edged equipment and the artifacts themselves.
While not all archaeological expeditions are created equal, they do have certain characteristics in common that have a direct reflection on safety issues. The most important thing to remember is that an archaeological excavation involves bringing together a collection of people who don't know each well or at all into a completely unfamiliar territory. Unlike almost any other science, conditions always vary with the circumstances. As a project investigator, you should make certain that the crew and any visitors that you may have are aware of the ambient dangers at the site; as a crew member, you should make sure that you find out about the conditions you will face. These conditions include, but are not limited to:
- Exposure to climate, including availability of shade from the sun and shelter from sudden storms
- Exposure to insects and plants (specifically, plants and insects to which personnel may have allergies)
- Physical requirements (heavy lifting, digging)
- Availability of drinking water and sanitary facilities
- Availability of workman's compensation/project insurance coverage
- Allergies
- Special medications
- Proper attire (hats, gloves, steel-toed, smooth-soled boots)
- Emergency contacts
- Health insurance
