Health and Safety
Keeping healthy and safe is largely a matter of basic common sense. While the recomendations and rules below do not attempt to cover every possible risk or injury that may be encountered, they are a guide to safe procedures and will make participants aware of safety issues. First-aid boxes will be on site. However, you should bring your own medication for ailments like asthma, hay-fever, headaches, upset stomach, etc. Also, do bring rehydration salts and sugars.
Plan in Advance
Please make sure you inform one of us of any known allergic reaction to medication you might have, or any other allergies — or if you are currently under medication.
A full disclosure of long-term health problems or any form of medical treatment you have been undergoing has to be submitted to your insurance company.
Clothing
The weather in Israel will be very hot in the summer months, so make sure you bring suitable clothing for high temperatures and dry weather conditions.
A sun hat is essential. Ideally you would want to cover both head and neck areas.
Footwear should provide protection from snakes and scorpions, but should be smooth soled for excavations. To fully conform to health and safety rules, bare feet or open sandals should not be allowed on site (it is an insurance issue).
Make sure to bring a good supply of sunscreen. Sun block with a high protection factor should be used, and sufficient fluids should be drunk when the weather is particularly hot. It might be necessary to replace salt by adding extra to your food, but under most circumstances very little extra salt is needed after three weeks of acclimatization.
Meals / Special Diets
Meals in our everyday living area always include a vegetarian option. In kibutz all meals are kosher. If you have a restricted diet (e.g., gluten-free), make sure you bring a supply of what you need. If you suffer any symptoms that might indicate food poisoning, such as vomiting or diarrhea, inform a first-aider at once.
All members of the dig should be aware that their own health and hygiene standards may affect the welfare and efficiency of the whole dig. Keep the toilets and washing facilities clean and tidy. Always wash your hands after using toilets and after work on site. Before preparing food or eating meals, hands must be washed with soap and hot water and dried.
Ensure that you only use water that has been designated as drinkable, for both drinking and cleaning your teeth. Remember that fruit and vegetables from local markets will require washing.
Accidents
Any accident or personal injury, however minor, should be reported to a first-aider immediately, and the incident recorded.
Heat Exhaustion
If you begin to feel queasy, dizzy, etc., during the course of the working day, do not hesitate to inform your supervisor and retire to the dormitory to rest, or carry out light duties out of the direct heat. The heat will affect individuals differently, and the need to rest should not be regarded as a sign of weakness. Be sensible before more damage is done.
