Antarctic Training part 1

In early January we started training at the Australian Antarctic Division in Kingston.

There are a number of things that we have to become familiar with in order to live and operate safely in a community that is confined to the remote Macquarie Island in the Southern Ocean.

Map showing Macquarie Island in relation to Australia and the Antarctic continent

In a previous post 'More Preparation...' I talked about the Lay Surgical Assistants course. In this course four of us became familiar with the role of operating theatre nurse and anaesthetics.

On the first few days at the AAD we received our 'kit'. The AAD provides each expeditioner with clothes to survive the cold, wet and windy harsh climate of Macquarie Island. This included woollen thermal underwear, thick woollen socks, gloves and beanie as the first layer. The next layer consists of fleece top and bottom (these can be light or heavy fleece). The next layer is the protective outer layer and consists of heavy duty wind and water proof gear. We also were kitted with personal protective clothing gear as well as hiking boots. See Clothing - what do you wear.

Aaron trying on the thick (wind-proof) outer layer (Carhartt jacket and bib & brace pants). Some of our remaining kit can be seen on the counter

Aaron and I trying on thermals, socks and balaclava in the AAD Clothing Store

The next part of training included familiarisation of the gymnasium equipment. Four of the Macca crew (including myself) spent a day at the Kingborough Sports Centre, becoming familiar with gym equipment and how to use it correctly and safely. Each Antarctic base has a small gymnasium used for gaining and maintaining fitness as well as for recreational use.

Another part of the Macca crew had a day in Hydroponics.

We all participated in an afternoon session with a physiotherapist on correct and safe methods of manual handling (lifting and carrying objects).

Manual Handling - learning how to correctly and safely pick up and carry a stretcher 

Each of the Antarctic bases has a large store room/building. The store is re-stocked at station re-supply with all food, supplies and equipment needed for the following year (ie. until the next re-supply). The store has several isles of shelves.

'Green' Store at Casey

The Green Store at Casey (picture above) is typical of each station, though the store at Macquarie Island is smaller but with a similar shelving system. Each store has a forklift and five of the Macca crew had a two day course in forklift safety and operation. As you can see in the pictures - forklift operations can be in a confined space.

Becoming familiar with the forklift (similar to one on Macquarie Island)

Aaron showing how high the forks can be lifted

Yours Truly taking a turn at move pallets with the forklift

Aaron moving a pallet from the second shelf (in simulated confined space)

So now every member of the Macca crew has a forklift license.

Next - Search and Rescue Training....