FRO's Function and Mission
The Field Research Office aims to facilitate off-campus research activities, including all types of field, archival, library or other research, as well as field trips and field schools, carried out nationally or internationally. See more...
Message from FRO's director, Dr. Jeff Kavanaugh
Welcome to the Field Research Office website. Here you will find information to aid you in preparing for safe and productive fieldwork, including planning tools, information on training, first aid, field communication and emergency procedures, and details about relevant University policy. More Details...
What's New
InReach GPS Satellite (Iridium) Communicators
Furthering its commitment to field safety, the Field Research Office has partnered with Environmental Health and Safety to acquire 10 inReach GPS satellite (Iridium) communicators which will be available the week of May 24th. These devices are similar to the Globalstar SPOT, but allow researchers to send and receive text messages in remote locations. Weekly charges are $12.50. A limited number of 56 texts may be sent per week without charge; additional texts may be sent at a cost of $0.25/text. Find out additional details and reserve a device.
Bear Spray Sharing Program
The Field Research Office has also purchased 10 bear spray canisters and safe transport cases for use by UAlberta researchers. More details on how to borrow at no cost for use in your field research campaign.
Whether you are borrowing a bear spray canister from FRO or using your own, please note that there are important guidelines to follow regarding the safe transport of bear spray by University of Alberta employees - given that it is classified as "dangerous goods". More details on those guidelines.
Satellite Phones, Field Emergency First Aid Kits and AEDs available
See the satellite phone online request form and the first aid/AED form to book these items early and avoid the rush and possibility of not getting one.
10 Field Emergency First Aid Kits with Automated External Defibrillator (AEDs) available to borrow.The Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation states that "performing CPR and using an AED before Emergency Medical Services arrive can increase the chance of survival by up to 75%". Some ask why do I need an AED if I'm 25 and healthy - read how an AED saved an NHL player's life.
Get your Daily Field Safety Log Book for this upcoming field season from the Field Research Office
The Daily Field Safety Log Books ease the task of identifying, controlling, and documenting hazards encountered by field researchers. If you require a book, please request one online.
New Alberta Wildfire App available free from the iTunes store
The app has "up-to-the-minute" information on fires burning in the province's forests. The app's GPS locator allows users see their proximity to wildfires. Immediately report a wildfire right from the application. For more information on Wildfires in Alberta and across Canada, see the Wildfire page.
FRO's Most Recent Featured Researcher
Jaymie Heilman
Field Training
First Aid courses scheduled have filled up. Feel free to visit FRO's List of Training Resources for more information on finding the right course for you.
Kenji Kinoshita, UAlberta's Fleet Safety Officer is holding Defensive Driving courses on April 18, 22, 29, 30, May 1, 2, 3 and 7th. See The Learning Shop to register. ATV training courses are offered, please contact Kenji Kinoshita to arrange.