Risk Assessment for Urban Fieldwork
Part of Human Geography Fieldwork — GCSE Geography
This key facts covers Risk Assessment for Urban Fieldwork within Human Geography Fieldwork for GCSE Geography. Revise Human Geography Fieldwork in Fieldwork for GCSE Geography with 0 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 5 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 5 of 14
Practice
0 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
📋 Risk Assessment for Urban Fieldwork
Urban fieldwork carries different risks from physical fieldwork. You must know the key hazards, the associated risks, and the control measures — examiners will ask about this in 2-mark questions.
| Hazard | Risk | Control Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Road traffic | Being struck by a vehicle when crossing roads or counting pedestrians near the kerb | Only cross at designated pedestrian crossings; assign a group member as a traffic spotter during counts near busy roads; wear high-visibility vests |
| Working in groups | Becoming separated from the group, especially in busy areas | Establish clear meeting points at each site; ensure all students have the teacher's mobile number; set a buddy system so no one works alone |
| Surveying in public spaces | Confrontation when approaching members of the public for questionnaires | Work in pairs when administering questionnaires; only approach people in well-lit, open, public areas; have a procedure for withdrawing if anyone becomes hostile |
| Sun and heat | Sunburn and heat exhaustion during prolonged outdoor work | Carry and drink water throughout the fieldwork day; apply sunscreen; schedule breaks in shade; avoid fieldwork in peak midday heat in warm weather |
| Slips and trips | Uneven pavements, kerb edges, or obstructions while looking at clipboards | Wear appropriate footwear; look up regularly when moving between sites; appoint a site leader who checks the route is clear before the group moves |
| Photography | Legal and ethical issues from photographing private property or identifiable individuals | Photograph only from public spaces; do not photograph individuals without consent; avoid photographing private security-controlled areas |
| Working in deprived areas | Risk of theft of equipment; risk of hostility | Keep equipment in bags when not in use; work as a group; inform school of the planned route before departure; carry only what is necessary |