Zodiac operations are limited to a two-mile radius of Palmer Station and
are allowed when wind speeds are less than 20 knots. A research team sets
out in their Zodiac on a routine six-hour sampling run. During the sampling,
the wind "freshens" and the team decides to head back to Palmer
immediately. The swell and chop of the waves threaten to swamp the boat
and make the return slow and difficult. What plans should they have considered
"before" setting out? What can they do now to increase a safe
return?
It is austral spring. Wind has been moving brash ice in to the nearshore
area around the base camp at Palmer Station and hampering data collection.
A research team has assessed the conditions and decided to go out on a sampling
run. While out on their run, the team is cut off by the ice and cannot return
safely to their base. What plans should they have considered "before"
setting out? What should they do to ensure their safety now?
After several days of limiting weather conditions, one of the new research
teams is finally able to head off to a nearby island to continue gathering
data on the effect of UV-B radiation on the growth of plants, mosses and
lichens. The combination of low wind and bright sunlight is a welcome break
after days of confinement, and they work intently and enthusiastically for
several hours. What plans should they have taken in to consideration "before"
setting out? What information should they keep in mind as they are working
to prevent disaster?
Several teams of researchers are based aboard the Polar Duke
. With all deeply involved in what they are doing, the Captain signals an
alert to the teams as the Duke comes into heavy waters and
starts pitching and rolling. What safety measures are high priority "before"
setting out? What safety measures must immediately be deployed? What are
the immediate dangers?
Blackline Master #7