Bibliographic Information
Article Title
Rethinking Research Sites as Wilderness Activity Series. Reframing Health, Safety, and Wellness in Archaeology
Journal Title
Advances in Archaeological Practice
Author(s)
Peixotto, Becca; and Klehm, Carla; and Eifling, Kurt
Year of Publication
2021
Volume Number
9
Issue Number
1
Article Pages
1-9
Web Address (URL)
Additional Information
Available Through
Cambridge University Press
Language
English
Notes
Field research requires careful preparation so as to protect the integrity of archaeological studies and ensure the health and wellness of our students and field crews. In this special issue, we hope to lay a foundation for securing health and wellness as elements of the ethical practice of archaeology fieldwork through discussions of common hazards and tools to prevent, prepare for, and address safety incidents in the field. Even as archaeology and other field sciences grapple with serious safety concerns such as sexual harassment and mental health, it can be tempting to view field sites as extensions of the classroom or office. But field research can be a high-risk endeavor where we are exposed to a range of hazards not typically encountered in a traditional learning or work environment. We reach across disciplinary boundaries toward outdoor leadership and backcountry medicine to introduce the concept of wilderness context to describe the remote—and not-so-remote—locations and conditions common to archaeology field research. These are places where small or unanticipated problems can quickly become serious incidents. By rethinking research sites as wilderness activity sites, we highlight how methodical preparation can help us craft more robust and ethical health and safety practices for all members of our teams.
Taxonomies
RPA Codes & Standards
Keywords & Terms
- Dishonesty, Exaggeration, Fraud, Deceit, and/or Misrepresentation
- Do No Harm
- Equity and Representation; Discrimination and Harassment
- General Archaeological Ethics
- Professional Qualification
- Professional Relationships and Communication
- Professional Standards
- Standards of Training and Student/Teacher Responsibilities
- Workplace Safety Standards
Topics & Issues
- #metoo
- Archaeological Ethics - Other
- Careers in Archaeology
- Equity, Representation, and Diversity
- Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
- Feminism and Intersectionality
- Gender and Sexuality
- Gender Equality
- Privilege and Issues of Inclusivity
- Professional Development
- Professionalism and Professional Standards
- Racism, Sexism, Homophobia, and Other Forms of Discrimination
- Sexual Harassment
- Women in Archaeology
- Working with Student Volunteers and the Public