ASTM F2852-19
(Practice)Standard Practice for Training a Land Search Tracker
Standard Practice for Training a Land Search Tracker
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities that a person must have to perform as a Tracker. No other skills are included or implied.
4.2 Every person who is identified as a Tracker shall have met the requirements of this guide.
4.2.1 Nothing in this guide precludes the AHJ from adding additional requirements for its personnel.
4.3 Training to this guide is not an indication that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission critical decisions.
4.4 Though this guide establishes a basic training standard, it does not imply that a Tracker is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar team member designation of an organization.
4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for a Tracker is the responsibility of the AHJ.
4.5 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific information needed by a Tracker or AHJ.
4.6 This guide by itself is not a training document. It is an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating Tracker endorsed personnel.
4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a book or other document to determine if its content includes the information required for training a Tracker. Likewise, this guide may be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if it meets the requirements of this guide.
4.8 The knowledge, skills, and abilities defined in this guide are not presented in any particular order and do not represent a training sequence.
4.9 A Tracker shall document his or her training, as directed by the AHJ, which might include the completion of a position task book, compliant with Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified supervision.
4.9.1 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as often as required by the AHJ.
4.9.2 Except where a physical skill or ability must be demonstrated, the AHJ sh...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide establishes the minimum training, including knowledge, skills, and abilities, required for personnel operating as Trackers in support of a land search effort.
1.2 A Tracker Endorsement alone is not sufficient to indicate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, or abilities to perform any specific duties, including search and rescue operations, beyond those defined within this guide.
1.3 A Tracker tracks on the surface of the land only, including urban or disaster areas that may be isolated or have lost supporting infrastructure.
1.4 This guide does not provide the minimum training requirements for tracking in partially or fully collapsed structures, in water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels).
1.5 Human land SAR resources that may utilize personnel trained to this guide are classified in Classification F1993.
1.5.1 Individuals trained to this guide are qualified to operate on teams or crews classified as Category – Land Search of Kind – Tracking.
1.5.2 Further training may be required before Tracking Land Search personnel may participate on particular Category or Kind of SAR resource, depending on local needs, regulations, or policies of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Nov-2019
- Technical Committee
- F32 - Search and Rescue
- Drafting Committee
- F32.03 - Personnel, Training and Education
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2008
- Refers
ASTM F1993-99(2005) - Standard Classification of Human Search and Rescue Resources (Withdrawn 2014) - Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2004
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-Oct-1999
- Effective Date
- 10-Oct-1998
- Effective Date
- 10-Jul-1997
- Refers
ASTM F1773-97 - Standard Terminology Relating to Climbing and Mountaineering Equipment and Practices - Effective Date
- 01-Jan-1997
Overview
ASTM F2852-19 - Standard Practice for Training a Land Search Tracker establishes the minimum requirements for the knowledge, skills, and abilities of personnel performing as Trackers in support of land search operations. Developed by ASTM International, this guide outlines the necessary training practices and qualifications for individual Trackers engaged in search and rescue (SAR) missions on land surfaces, including urban and disaster areas. While it defines baseline criteria, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) are permitted to set additional requirements as needed for their teams.
This standard is crucial for ensuring that land search personnel possess consistent, reliable skills in tracking and documentation, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of organized SAR efforts.
Key Topics
- Minimum Training Requirements: Details the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities a person must have to be recognized as a Tracker for land search operations.
- Scope of Application: Applies to tracking activities on the land surface only, including urban, wilderness, and disaster environments. Does not cover tracking in water, collapsed structures, confined spaces, or underground.
- Training and Endorsement: Tracker endorsement per ASTM F2852-19 alone does not guarantee capability for all search and rescue duties - further training and evaluation may be required by local authorities.
- Documentation and Evaluation: Outlines requirements for documenting training through position task books or field demonstration, and provides a framework for evaluating training materials or programs for compliance.
- Operational Knowledge: Covers practical topics such as recognizing and interpreting ground signs, tracking techniques (e.g., step-by-step method, sign cutting), using tracking equipment, and estimating the age and relevance of physical evidence.
- Teamwork: Emphasizes skills needed to operate as part of a tracking team, including position rotation for efficiency and safety.
Applications
ASTM F2852-19 serves a vital role in the standardization of land search tracking capabilities, supporting various organizations in the following applications:
- Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations: Provides a framework for training SAR teams and individuals involved in locating missing persons in a wide range of land environments.
- Disaster Response: Enables responders to track and locate individuals in disaster-impacted urban or rural areas, even when infrastructure is compromised.
- Law Enforcement: Supports the training of officers and specialized personnel for missing persons investigations or evidence recovery in terrestrial environments.
- Evaluation of Training Programs: Acts as a benchmark for assessing existing or new tracker training curricula, ensuring alignment with recognized best practices.
- Personnel Qualification: Assists agencies in verifying and documenting team member qualifications through structured task books and field demonstrations.
This standard delivers practical value by helping ensure that those designated as Trackers are equipped with a consistent baseline of skills essential for effective SAR activities, regardless of jurisdiction.
Related Standards
For a comprehensive approach to land search tracker training and SAR deployment, the following ASTM standards and guides are recommended:
- ASTM F1993: Classification System of Human Land Search and Rescue Resources
- ASTM F3068: Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book (PTB)
- ASTM F1773: Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search, and Rescue Equipment and Practices
- ASTM F1767: Guide for Forms Used for Search and Rescue
These documents, in conjunction with ASTM F2852-19, help standardize terminology, evaluation methods, and resource classification for SAR operations.
Keywords: land search tracker, ASTM F2852-19, search and rescue, SAR training, tracker training standard, land tracking, disaster response, search team qualification, tracking techniques, personnel training standards
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM F2852-19 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Training a Land Search Tracker". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities that a person must have to perform as a Tracker. No other skills are included or implied. 4.2 Every person who is identified as a Tracker shall have met the requirements of this guide. 4.2.1 Nothing in this guide precludes the AHJ from adding additional requirements for its personnel. 4.3 Training to this guide is not an indication that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission critical decisions. 4.4 Though this guide establishes a basic training standard, it does not imply that a Tracker is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar team member designation of an organization. 4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for a Tracker is the responsibility of the AHJ. 4.5 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific information needed by a Tracker or AHJ. 4.6 This guide by itself is not a training document. It is an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating Tracker endorsed personnel. 4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a book or other document to determine if its content includes the information required for training a Tracker. Likewise, this guide may be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if it meets the requirements of this guide. 4.8 The knowledge, skills, and abilities defined in this guide are not presented in any particular order and do not represent a training sequence. 4.9 A Tracker shall document his or her training, as directed by the AHJ, which might include the completion of a position task book, compliant with Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified supervision. 4.9.1 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as often as required by the AHJ. 4.9.2 Except where a physical skill or ability must be demonstrated, the AHJ sh... SCOPE 1.1 This guide establishes the minimum training, including knowledge, skills, and abilities, required for personnel operating as Trackers in support of a land search effort. 1.2 A Tracker Endorsement alone is not sufficient to indicate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, or abilities to perform any specific duties, including search and rescue operations, beyond those defined within this guide. 1.3 A Tracker tracks on the surface of the land only, including urban or disaster areas that may be isolated or have lost supporting infrastructure. 1.4 This guide does not provide the minimum training requirements for tracking in partially or fully collapsed structures, in water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels). 1.5 Human land SAR resources that may utilize personnel trained to this guide are classified in Classification F1993. 1.5.1 Individuals trained to this guide are qualified to operate on teams or crews classified as Category – Land Search of Kind – Tracking. 1.5.2 Further training may be required before Tracking Land Search personnel may participate on particular Category or Kind of SAR resource, depending on local needs, regulations, or policies of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities that a person must have to perform as a Tracker. No other skills are included or implied. 4.2 Every person who is identified as a Tracker shall have met the requirements of this guide. 4.2.1 Nothing in this guide precludes the AHJ from adding additional requirements for its personnel. 4.3 Training to this guide is not an indication that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission critical decisions. 4.4 Though this guide establishes a basic training standard, it does not imply that a Tracker is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar team member designation of an organization. 4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for a Tracker is the responsibility of the AHJ. 4.5 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific information needed by a Tracker or AHJ. 4.6 This guide by itself is not a training document. It is an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating Tracker endorsed personnel. 4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a book or other document to determine if its content includes the information required for training a Tracker. Likewise, this guide may be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if it meets the requirements of this guide. 4.8 The knowledge, skills, and abilities defined in this guide are not presented in any particular order and do not represent a training sequence. 4.9 A Tracker shall document his or her training, as directed by the AHJ, which might include the completion of a position task book, compliant with Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified supervision. 4.9.1 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as often as required by the AHJ. 4.9.2 Except where a physical skill or ability must be demonstrated, the AHJ sh... SCOPE 1.1 This guide establishes the minimum training, including knowledge, skills, and abilities, required for personnel operating as Trackers in support of a land search effort. 1.2 A Tracker Endorsement alone is not sufficient to indicate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, or abilities to perform any specific duties, including search and rescue operations, beyond those defined within this guide. 1.3 A Tracker tracks on the surface of the land only, including urban or disaster areas that may be isolated or have lost supporting infrastructure. 1.4 This guide does not provide the minimum training requirements for tracking in partially or fully collapsed structures, in water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels). 1.5 Human land SAR resources that may utilize personnel trained to this guide are classified in Classification F1993. 1.5.1 Individuals trained to this guide are qualified to operate on teams or crews classified as Category – Land Search of Kind – Tracking. 1.5.2 Further training may be required before Tracking Land Search personnel may participate on particular Category or Kind of SAR resource, depending on local needs, regulations, or policies of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM F2852-19 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 03.100.30 - Management of human resources; 13.200 - Accident and disaster control. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM F2852-19 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM F2852-17, ASTM F1993-24, ASTM F1767-14(2020), ASTM F1773-09(2015), ASTM F1767-14, ASTM F1773-09, ASTM F1633-97(2008), ASTM F1993-99(2005), ASTM F1767-98(2005), ASTM F1773-97(2004), ASTM F1633-97(2003), ASTM F1993-99, ASTM F1767-98e1, ASTM F1633-97, ASTM F1773-97. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM F2852-19 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F2852 − 19
Standard Practice for
Training a Land Search Tracker
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2852; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This guide establishes the minimum training, including 2.1 ASTM Standards:
knowledge, skills, and abilities, required for personnel operat- F1633 Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn
ing as Trackers in support of a land search effort. 2017)
F1767 Guide for Forms Used for Search and Rescue
1.2 ATrackerEndorsementaloneisnotsufficienttoindicate
F1773 Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering,
that an individual has the knowledge, skills, or abilities to
Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
perform any specific duties, including search and rescue
F1993 Classification System of Human Land Search and
operations, beyond those defined within this guide.
Rescue Resources
1.3 A Tracker tracks on the surface of the land only,
F3068 Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book
including urban or disaster areas that may be isolated or have
(PTB)
lost supporting infrastructure.
3. Terminology
1.4 This guide does not provide the minimum training
requirements for tracking in partially or fully collapsed
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
structures, in water, in confined spaces, or underground (such
3.1.1 bruising, n—footfall damage to vegetation, usually
as in caves, mines, and tunnels).
indicated by color variation contrasting with surrounding area
of same vegetation.
1.5 Human land SAR resources that may utilize personnel
trained to this guide are classified in Classification F1993.
3.1.2 flattening, n—a part of the surface of the ground
1.5.1 Individuals trained to this guide are qualified to
compressed in a manner consistent with that of a human
operateonteamsorcrewsclassifiedasCategory–LandSearch
footfall. A compressed area may include loose debris, vegeta-
of Kind – Tracking.
tion living and dead, and surface moisture.
1.5.2 Further training may be required before Tracking
3.1.3 disturbance, n—any disturbance of the natural state of
Land Search personnel may participate on particular Category
ground surface, including leaf litter, loose debris, duff, dis-
or Kind of SAR resource, depending on local needs,
lodged or embedded objects probably caused by footfall
regulations, or policies of the Authority Having Jurisdiction
movement.
(AHJ).
3.1.4 flagging, n—vegetation turned in a direction of travel.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1.5 prime, adj—sign or area, sign or evidence that has the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
highest probability of being made by the specific person being
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
tracked; area that has the highest probability of containing
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
evidence from the specific person being tracked.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor- 3.1.6 scuff, n—a mark caused by footfalls contacting firm
ground indicating movement in a determinable direction of
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the travel.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.1.7 shine, n—light reflected from within the human foot-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
fall damage.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee F32 on Search and For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.03 on Personnel, contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Training and Education. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2019. Published January 2020. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 2010. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as F2852 – 17. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/F2852-19. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2852 − 19
3.1.8 sign cutting, v—the systematic and regimented proce- task book, compliant with Guide F3068, or by field demon-
dure used to locate and identify the physical evidence of the stration under qualified supervision.
passage of a specific person or persons. 4.9.1 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a
skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as
3.1.9 step by step method, n—a process of identifying
often as required by the AHJ.
contiguous tracks, sign, or both in succession, and acknowl-
4.9.2 Except where a physical skill or ability must be
edging each one as first described by Albert Taylor, United
demonstrated,theAHJshalldeterminethebestwaytoevaluate
States Border Patrol.
a person’s knowledge. This may be by written exam, oral
3.1.10 step interval, n—normal walking distance between
exam, field demonstration, or by some combination of the
footfalls measuring between a toe dig and a heel strike.
three.
3.1.11 tracking or track, v—the systematic and methodical
identification of physical evidence which thereby allows one to
5. General Knowledge and Skills
follow a specific person or persons.
5.1 To be endorsed as a Tracker, a Land Search Team
3.1.12 transfer, n—any substance inadvertently collected by
Member must complete the National Incident Management
footgear in a footfall and deposited by succeeding footfalls.
System (NIMS) course IS-200, “ICS-200: ICS for Single
3.1.13 unnatural marks, n—straight lines, curves, parallel
Resources and Initial Action Incidents.”
lines, or marks not related to the natural world.
6. Equipment
3.1.14 weeping, n—the natural exudation of vegetation flu-
ids resulting from footfall damage.
6.1 A Tracker shall carry, as a minimum, the PPE for
personal safety suitable for the normal area of operations.
3.2 For definitions of other terms used in this guide see
Guide F1633, Terminology F1773, Classification F1993, and
6.2 A Tracker shall carry the equipment required for track-
other references within.
ing in the field.Alist of recommended equipment can be found
in Appendix X1.
4. Significance and Use
6.3 A Tracker shall be able to explain the reasons to carry,
4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills,
and demonstrate the use of all tracking equipment required by
and abilities that a person must have to perform as a Tracker.
the AHJ.
No other skills are included or implied.
4.2 Every person who is identified as a Tracker shall have
7. Specific Knowledge and Skills for Tracking
met the requirements of this guide.
7.1 A Tracker shall explain the significance, as it relates to
4.2.1 Nothing in this guide precludes the AHJ from adding
the mission, of the following:
additional requirements for its personnel.
7.1.1 How track evidence supports initial information re-
4.3 Training to this guide is not an indication that a person
garding the search subject;
possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission 7.1.2 How establishing the direction of travel affects search
critical decisions.
efforts;
7.1.3 How trackers can limit a search area.
4.4 Though this guide establishes a basic training standard,
it does not imply that a Tracker is a “trainee,” “probationary,”
7.2 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to identify and
or other similar team member designation of an organization. describe a track as follows:
4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for a
7.2.1 Measuring the overall length, width of sole, width of
Tracker is the responsibility of the AHJ. heel, length of heel, or if no heel is present, some other visible
feature;
4.5 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with
7.2.2 Determining the type, shape, and condition of the
the referenced documents to provide the specific information
footgear being worn;
needed by a Tracker or AHJ.
7.2.3 Drawing a picture of a track including all unique
4.6 This guide by itself is not a training document. It is an
marks and designs.
outline of the topics required for training or evaluating Tracker
7.3 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to set up a
endorsed personnel.
tracking stick as follows:
4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a book or other
7.3.1 Placing point of stick on the heel strike of the next
document to determine if its content includes the information
print, mark stick over the existing toe dig, and place a second
required for training a Tracker. Likewise, this guide may be
mark over the existing heel strike.
used to evaluate an existing training program to see if it meets
7.3.2 The distance between the point of the stick at the next
the requirements of this guide.
heel strike and the existing toe dig is referred to as the step
4.8 The knowledge, skills, and abilities defined in this guide interval.
are not presented in any particular order and do not represent
7.4 ATracker shall demonstrate the ability to use a tracking
a training sequence.
sticktofindthenexttrackwhenusingtheStep-by-Stepmethod
4.9 ATracker shall document his or her training, as directed as follows:
by the AHJ, which might include the completion of a position 7.4.1 Place observed track between the markings;
F2852 − 19
7.4.2 Pivot the point of the stick left and right in a 7.8 ATracker shall demonstrate the ability to recognize and
sixty-degree arc; explain footprint characteristics related to the manner and
7.4.3 Focus your eyes in the prime sign area, at the end of movements of the sign maker.
the stick, for the next track;
7.9 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to function in
7.4.4 Locate track evidence;
any position in a recommended three-person tracking team as
7.4.5 Mark track by placing an indicator behind the heel
follows:
strike;
7.9.1 Point Person, using a tracking stick to follow track
7.4.6 Move on to next track;
evidence.
7.4.7 Show the trend of the direction of travel by occasion-
7.9.2 Right or Left Flanker, one step behind the point
ally placing visible indicators above ground level.
person, each of whom assists the point person from a different
7.5 ATracker shall demonstrate the ability to utilize the sun perspective and also watches for appr
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F2852 − 17 F2852 − 19
Standard Practice for
Training a Land Search Tracker
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2852; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide establishes the minimum training, including knowledge, skills, and abilities, required for personnel operating as
Trackers in support of a land search effort.
1.2 A Tracker Endorsement alone is not sufficient to indicate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, or abilities to perform
any specific duties, including search and rescue operations, beyond those defined within this guide.
1.3 A Tracker tracks on the surface of the land only, including urban or disaster areas that may be isolated or have lost
supporting infrastructure.
1.4 This guide does not provide the minimum training requirements for tracking in partially or fully collapsed structures, in
water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels).
1.5 Human land SAR resources that may utilize personnel trained to this guide are classified in Classification F1993.
1.5.1 Individuals trained to this guide are qualified to operate on teams or crews classified as Category – Land Search of Kind
– Tracking.
1.5.2 Further training may be required before Tracking Land Search personnel may participate on particular Category or Kind
of SAR resource, depending on local needs, regulations, or policies of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
1.6 This guide does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of
the user of this guide to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
requirements prior to use.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F1633 Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn 2017)
F1767 Guide for Forms Used for Search and Rescue
F1773 Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
F1993 Classification System of Human Land Search and Rescue Resources
F3068 Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book (PTB)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F32 on Search and Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.03 on Personnel, Training
and Education.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2017Dec. 1, 2019. Published November 2017January 2020. Originally approved in 2010. Last previous edition approved in 20102017
as F2852F2852 – 17.-10. DOI: 10.1520/F2852-17.10.1520/F2852-19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2852 − 19
3.1.1 bruising, n—footfall damage to vegetation, usually indicated by color variation contrasting with surrounding area of same
vegetation.
3.1.2 flattening, n—a part of the surface of the ground compressed in a manner consistent with that of a human footfall. A
compressed area may include loose debris, vegetation living and dead, and surface moisture.
3.1.3 disturbance, n—any disturbance of the natural state of ground surface, including leaf litter, loose debris, duff, dislodged
or embedded objects probably caused by footfall movement.
3.1.4 flagging, n—vegetation turned in a direction of travel.
3.1.5 prime, adj—sign or area, sign or evidence that has the highest probability of being made by the specific person being
tracked; area that has the highest probability of containing evidence from the specific person being tracked.
3.1.6 scuff, n—a mark caused by footfalls contacting firm ground indicating movement in a determinable direction of travel.
3.1.7 shine, n—light reflected from within the human footfall damage.
3.1.8 sign cutting, v—the systematic and regimented procedure used to locate and identify the physical evidence of the passage
of a specific person or persons.
3.1.9 step by step method, n—a process of identifying contiguous tracks, sign, or both in succession, and acknowledging each
one as first described by Albert Taylor, United States Border Patrol.
3.1.10 step interval, n—normal walking distance between footfalls measuring between a toe dig and a heel strike.
3.1.11 tracking or track, v—the systematic and methodical identification of physical evidence which thereby allows one to
follow a specific person or persons.
3.1.12 transfer, n—any substance inadvertently collected by footgear in a footfall and deposited by succeeding footfalls.
3.1.13 unnatural marks, n—straight lines, curves, parallel lines, or marks not related to the natural world.
3.1.14 weeping, n—the natural exudation of vegetation fluids resulting from footfall damage.
3.2 For definitions of other terms used in this guide see Guide F1633, Terminology F1773, Classification F1993, and other
references within.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities that a person must have to perform as a Tracker. No
other skills are included or implied.
4.2 Every person who is identified as a Tracker shall have met the requirements of this guide.
4.2.1 Nothing in this guide precludes the AHJ from adding additional requirements for its personnel.
4.3 Training to this guide is not an indication that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission critical
decisions.
4.4 Though this guide establishes a basic training standard, it does not imply that a Tracker is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or
other similar team member designation of an organization.
4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for a Tracker is the responsibility of the AHJ.
4.5 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific information needed
by a Tracker or AHJ.
4.6 This guide by itself is not a training document. It is an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating Tracker
endorsed personnel.
4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a book or other document to determine if its content includes the information required
for training a Tracker. Likewise, this guide may be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if it meets the requirements
of this guide.
4.8 The knowledge, skills, and abilities defined in this guide are not presented in any particular order and do not represent a
training sequence.
4.9 A Tracker shall document his or her training, as directed by the AHJ, which might include the completion of a position task
book, compliant with Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified supervision.
4.9.1 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as often
as required by the AHJ.
4.9.2 Except where a physical skill or ability must be demonstrated, the AHJ shall determine the best way to evaluate a person’s
knowledge. This may be by written exam, oral exam, field demonstration, or by some combination of the three.
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5. General Knowledge and Skills
5.1 To be endorsed as a Tracker, a Land Search Team Member must complete the National Incident Management System
(NIMS) course IS-200, “ICS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents.”
6. Equipment
6.1 A Tracker shall carry, as a minimum, the PPE for personal safety suitable for the normal area of operations.
6.2 A Tracker shall carry the equipment required for tracking in the field. A list of recommended equipment can be found in
Appendix X1.
6.3 A Tracker shall be able to explain the reasons to carry, and demonstrate the use of all tracking equipment required by the
AHJ.
7. Specific Knowledge and Skills for Tracking
7.1 A Tracker shall explain the significance, as it relates to the mission, of the following:
7.1.1 How track evidence supports initial information regarding the search subject;
7.1.2 How establishing the direction of travel affects search efforts;
7.1.3 How trackers can limit a search area.
7.2 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to identify and describe a track as follows:
7.2.1 Measuring the overall length, width of sole, width of heel, length of heel, or if no heel is present, some other visible
feature;
7.2.2 Determining the type, shape, and condition of the footgear being worn;
7.2.3 Drawing a picture of a track including all unique marks and designs.
7.3 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to set up a tracking stick as follows:
7.3.1 Placing point of stick on the heel strike of the next print, mark stick over the existing toe dig, and place a second mark
over the existing heel strike.
7.3.2 The distance between the point of the stick at the next heel strike and the existing toe dig is referred to as the step interval.
7.4 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to use a tracking stick to find the next track when using the Step-by-Step method
as follows:
7.4.1 Place observed track between the markings;
7.4.2 Pivot the point of the stick left and right in a sixty-degree arc;
7.4.3 Focus your eyes in the prime sign area, at the end of the stick, for the next track;
7.4.4 Locate track evidence;
7.4.5 Mark track by placing an indicator behind the heel strike;
7.4.6 Move on to next track;
7.4.7 Show the trend of the direction of travel by occasionally placing visible indicators above ground level.
7.5 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to utilize the sun or another light source to reveal sign using the following:
7.5.1 A mirror;
7.5.2 A handheld light that provides illumination, but does not contribute to eye fatigue.
7.6 A Tracker shall demonstrate the ability to recognize, identify, and describe the following types of sign under actual
conditions, and be able to articulate how the sign is related to the track:
7.6.1 Bruising;
7.6.2 Flattening;
7.6.3
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