Fiji's Ancient Seafarers Dr. Patrick D. Nunn - Earthwatch Institute

Potential Hazards
Hazard Type
Transportation
Terrain
Animals/
Plants
Climate/
Weather
Personal
security
Project tasks/
equipment
Diseases and
health risks
Associated Risks and Precautions
Vehicles drive on the left side of the road in Fiji. Paved roads are well maintained and
regulated. The project will use a reputable rental company and drivers for the bus ride from
Nadi to the project site. Seatbelts should be worn at all times per Fiji law. While in the field,
project and village vehicles (usually a small pickup truck fitted with bench seats in the back
and a canopy overhead) will be used to transport volunteers between the village and the
research site along dirt roads, traveling no more than 10 miles per hour for typically 10
minutes each way.
The terrain is rough but reasonably easy to cross. Sprains, scratches, bruises, etc. are possible
but can be minimized by following onsite safety procedures, particularly by walking slowly
and carefully and wearing long pants. You should wear shoes at all times to avoid cutting your
feet on shells and other sharp. Be sure to wash and apply an antibiotic cream to any cuts. When
walking through the bush, beware of sinkholes in bedrock terrain. Barbed wire surrounds the
Bourewa dig site and many farmers’ fields – cross it with great care and ask for help if you
need it. Do not break down fences or leave gates open. A flashlight or headlamp is highly
recommended for nighttime toilet visits. When crossing excavation areas, watch for ropes
holding up tarps, guide wires for pits, and the pits themselves. Never jump into pits, and
always be careful when getting out that you do not collapse the pit sides. Ask for a helping
hand if necessary.
There are no venomous snakes or other animals in the research area. Mosquitoes and hornets
may be a problem in thick bush. Bring insect repellent and appropriate medications for
potential allergic reactions to insects or plants (at least two Epi-pens, antihistamines, etc.).
Scratches from sugarcane stalks are likely but can be minimized by wearing long pants.
Do not expose yourself to the sun unnecessarily. Always wear a broad-brimmed hat when
working in the sun and use ample high-factor sunscreen, reapplying frequently. You may also
wish to bring a cream for relieving sunburn. Dehydration can be a significant issue, so be sure
to drink plenty of water every day, particularly during fieldwork.
Theft is not generally a concern in Vusama, although you should take sensible precautions and
leave any unnecessary valuables at home. Walking alone in Fiji’s urban centers at night is not
recommended as pick-pocketing and muggings do occasionally occur. Travel in groups and by
taxi in urban areas at night; only choose official taxis with yellow registration plates.
Follow proper procedures when using equipment, as instructed by the project staff. In order to
protect personal electrical equipment from damage, power surge protectors and voltage
adaptors are necessary.
Vusama’s well water may cause stomach upsets (including diarrhea) for some people.
Ultraviolet light (UV) treated water will be provided but has a slight taste (see Section 8 ‘Food’).
Bring some medication such as Imodium (loperamide) or lomotil in case of traveler’s diarrhea.
Adequate fluid intake is essential. Always wash your hands before eating and wear footwear
at all times to avoid bacteria, disease and infection. Dengue fever is found in Fiji; it is a virus
spread by day-biting mosquitoes and precautions such as wearing insect repellent should be
practiced. Other diseases that may be found in Fiji include eosinophilic meningitis, hepatitis,
HIV/AIDS, leptospirosis, and typhoid. Please see Section 11 ‘Health Information’ for inoculation
recommendations and health advice.
Medical Conditions of Special Concern
Though the expedition will not be particularly physically strenuous, volunteers should be reasonably fit and
healthy. You should be able to comfortably sit on the floor (cross-legged or kneeling with your feet tucked behind
you) for extended periods during meals and social events (the welcome ceremony, chatting with village residents,
etc.). People with limited flexibility, knee problems and/or bad backs may find this difficult. Though the team
will eat a good deal of seafood, those with seafood allergies can be accommodated.
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