DINOSOC

DINOSOC runs many fossil hunting expeditions and this page features all the basic information you need to know before you can join us.

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DINOSOC is a student society so we're quite laid back about things, but even we have some general rules and recommendations for when you're out in the field with us. They're for your own good so heed them well.

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Clothing

When out in the field, you must wear suitable clothing. We will probably be out on the coast, so more often than not, it will be cold and windy. Wear warm, comfortable clothes. Ideally, they should be water proof and hard wearing. 

Also, we recommend dressing in layers - so you can lose or add layers as necessary - you don't want to work up too much of a sweat extracting that ammonite!

 

Footwear

We will be traversing wet, slippery, muddy terrain, so wear appropriate footwear - walking/hiking boots and wellington boots would be best, (I'd recommend the hiking boots over wellies). Additionally non-slip trainers should be ok - as long as it is comfortable, has good grip and can give your feet adequate protection from the cold, the wet and the mud. 

 

Protective Clothing 

You MUST wear hard hats when working near cliffs and anywhere you could encounter falling rocks. 

You MUST wear saftey goggles when hammering rocks. (Field Director Smithwick learnt that the hard way, his sight was saved - you might not be so lucky.)

- These two requirements are part of our risk assessment forms - you must sign them in order to join our expeditions - if you do not follow these rules, we are not liable for the consequences. You have been warned.

DINOSOC will provide you with this equipment (courtesy of the Alumni Foundation).

 

It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to look after any loaned equipment - If you LOSE any equipment we give you, you will have to PAY FOR IT. 

 

 

Behaviour 

We have a laugh on these trips, but we expect you to behave responsibly out there - Don't be stupid. Think before you act.

 

1. Follow the above rules regarding protective clothing.

 

2. Don't hammer rocks if someone may get hurt - if they're close enough to        be hit by rock splinters. Warn them beforehand so they can cover their          eyes or move away.

 

3. Look before you leap - watch where you're walking, you don't want to           walk into a fast flowing section of water or an area of deep water or               mud (or a pit of excrement - those on the Tebay 2013 geology mapping           trip, know that well).

 

4. Listen to your DINOSOC Field Guides - they're there to guide you in fossil        hunting and keep you safe - annoy them at your own peril.