ASTM F3071-14(2020)
(Guide)Standard Guide for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW) Endorsement
Standard Guide for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW) Endorsement
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine a position and collect navigational data in the wilderness. A person trained to this guide shall be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW Endorsed).
4.1.1 Every person who is endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall have met the requirements of this guide.
4.2 This guide is only the first level of training for wilderness GPS/GNSS use, and only establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a person to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location and collect navigational data in a wilderness environment. No other skills are included or implied.
4.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide, a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall also be adequately trained to travel and work in a wilderness environment.
4.4 Depending on the regulations or policies of the AHJ, additional knowledge, skills, or abilities may be required before a person who meets the requirements in this guide may use a GPS/GNSS receiver in a wilderness environment.
4.4.1 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding additional requirements for its own members.
4.5 This guide by itself is not a complete training document. It only specifies the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for an individual to be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use. This guide may, however, be used in the development of, or as part of, a complete training document or program.
4.6 Though this guide establishes only minimum training, it does not imply that a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an organization. The AHJ is responsible for determining the requirements and qualifications for member or employee ratings.
4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a document to determine if its content includes the nec...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS2 receiver to determine one’s position, and collect location data, in the wilderness.
1.2 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on land, on and off roads, and on small bodies of water, wherever GPS/GNSS signals can be received.
1.3 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver in disaster areas where local positioning aids or references may be lost or damaged.
1.4 This guide does not apply to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on large bodies of water, at sea, or in the air.
1.5 A person who meets the requirements in this guide is only prepared to operate a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location, and collect position and movement information, in a wilderness environment.
1.6 This guide does not imply that a GPS/GNSS receiver is a replacement for a map and compass. Use of the latter is strongly recommended as a backup for GPS/GNSS navigation.
1.7 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.
1.8 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
- 31-Mar-2020
- Technical Committee
- F32 - Search and Rescue
- Drafting Committee
- F32.03 - Personnel, Training and Education
Relations
- Replaces
ASTM F3071-14 - Standard Guide for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW) Endorsement - Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2008
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2004
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-Apr-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-Jul-1997
- Refers
ASTM F1773-97 - Standard Terminology Relating to Climbing and Mountaineering Equipment and Practices - Effective Date
- 01-Jan-1997
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
Overview
ASTM F3071-14(2020) - Standard Guide for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW) Endorsement establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to correctly use a GPS or GNSS receiver for determining position and collecting navigational data in the wilderness. Developed by ASTM International, this standard sets clear guidelines for those seeking a Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS endorsement and supports foundational training for safe and reliable navigation in outdoor or remote settings.
GPS (Global Positioning System) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receivers are essential for emergency responders, search and rescue teams, field researchers, and outdoor adventurers. This standard assists organizations in evaluating the adequacy of training programs related to wilderness GPS/GNSS activities, making it valuable for authorities, trainers, and employers overseeing safety in remote environments.
Key Topics
Core areas covered by ASTM F3071-14(2020) include:
Essential Knowledge and Skills
- Understanding how GPS/GNSS receivers work
- Awareness of device limitations and possible sources of error in wilderness settings
- Advantages and disadvantages of GPS/GNSS navigation compared to traditional map and compass techniques
- Importance of matching the GPS/GNSS datum to map datum
Basic Receiver Operations
- Turning a receiver on and off, managing batteries
- Setting receiver parameters such as map datum, distance units, and location formats (e.g., latitude/longitude or UTM)
Data Collection in the Field
- Preparing the receiver for data logging (track log management)
- Documenting user location and movements accurately
- Recognizing device errors and verifying adequate satellite coverage
Safety and Best Practices
- Recognizing that this guide supplements but does not replace training in wilderness travel and safety
- Understanding that GPS/GNSS navigation should be backed up with map and compass skills
- Being aware of local organizational requirements or additional regulations
Applications
This standard applies to a wide range of wilderness navigation activities, including:
- Search and rescue operations where precise location data and movement tracking are critical, especially where local reference markers may be unavailable or damaged.
- Training programs for outdoor personnel, field researchers, or wilderness guides, providing a baseline for GPS/GNSS proficiency.
- Recreational applications by individuals who require dependable positioning for hiking, land navigation, or small watercraft navigation on lakes and rivers.
- Post-disaster fieldwork when conventional navigational references are disrupted, ensuring that responders can effectively use satellite navigation tools.
Note: The standard does not cover GPS/GNSS use at sea, in the air, or on large bodies of water. It is not designed to replace comprehensive training or safety procedures but can be a component in developing full training curricula.
Related Standards
ASTM F3071-14(2020) refers to and complements several other key ASTM standards:
- ASTM F1633 - Guide for Techniques in Land Search
- ASTM F1773 - Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search, and Rescue Equipment and Practices
- ASTM F2209 - Guide for Training of Land Search Team Member
In addition, it aligns with internationally recognized principles on standardization as outlined by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Keywords: GPS, GNSS, wilderness navigation, ASTM F3071, search and rescue, basic GPS skills, satellite positioning, field data collection, outdoor safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM F3071-14(2020) is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW) Endorsement". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine a position and collect navigational data in the wilderness. A person trained to this guide shall be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW Endorsed). 4.1.1 Every person who is endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall have met the requirements of this guide. 4.2 This guide is only the first level of training for wilderness GPS/GNSS use, and only establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a person to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location and collect navigational data in a wilderness environment. No other skills are included or implied. 4.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide, a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall also be adequately trained to travel and work in a wilderness environment. 4.4 Depending on the regulations or policies of the AHJ, additional knowledge, skills, or abilities may be required before a person who meets the requirements in this guide may use a GPS/GNSS receiver in a wilderness environment. 4.4.1 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding additional requirements for its own members. 4.5 This guide by itself is not a complete training document. It only specifies the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for an individual to be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use. This guide may, however, be used in the development of, or as part of, a complete training document or program. 4.6 Though this guide establishes only minimum training, it does not imply that a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an organization. The AHJ is responsible for determining the requirements and qualifications for member or employee ratings. 4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a document to determine if its content includes the nec... SCOPE 1.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS2 receiver to determine one’s position, and collect location data, in the wilderness. 1.2 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on land, on and off roads, and on small bodies of water, wherever GPS/GNSS signals can be received. 1.3 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver in disaster areas where local positioning aids or references may be lost or damaged. 1.4 This guide does not apply to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on large bodies of water, at sea, or in the air. 1.5 A person who meets the requirements in this guide is only prepared to operate a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location, and collect position and movement information, in a wilderness environment. 1.6 This guide does not imply that a GPS/GNSS receiver is a replacement for a map and compass. Use of the latter is strongly recommended as a backup for GPS/GNSS navigation. 1.7 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. 1.8 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 required to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine a position and collect navigational data in the wilderness. A person trained to this guide shall be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW Endorsed). 4.1.1 Every person who is endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall have met the requirements of this guide. 4.2 This guide is only the first level of training for wilderness GPS/GNSS use, and only establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a person to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location and collect navigational data in a wilderness environment. No other skills are included or implied. 4.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide, a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use shall also be adequately trained to travel and work in a wilderness environment. 4.4 Depending on the regulations or policies of the AHJ, additional knowledge, skills, or abilities may be required before a person who meets the requirements in this guide may use a GPS/GNSS receiver in a wilderness environment. 4.4.1 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding additional requirements for its own members. 4.5 This guide by itself is not a complete training document. It only specifies the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for an individual to be endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use. This guide may, however, be used in the development of, or as part of, a complete training document or program. 4.6 Though this guide establishes only minimum training, it does not imply that a person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an organization. The AHJ is responsible for determining the requirements and qualifications for member or employee ratings. 4.7 This guide can be used to evaluate a document to determine if its content includes the nec... SCOPE 1.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS2 receiver to determine one’s position, and collect location data, in the wilderness. 1.2 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on land, on and off roads, and on small bodies of water, wherever GPS/GNSS signals can be received. 1.3 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver in disaster areas where local positioning aids or references may be lost or damaged. 1.4 This guide does not apply to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver on large bodies of water, at sea, or in the air. 1.5 A person who meets the requirements in this guide is only prepared to operate a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine his or her location, and collect position and movement information, in a wilderness environment. 1.6 This guide does not imply that a GPS/GNSS receiver is a replacement for a map and compass. Use of the latter is strongly recommended as a backup for GPS/GNSS navigation. 1.7 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. 1.8 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 F3071-14(2020) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 33.070.40 - Satellite. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM F3071-14(2020) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM F3071-14, ASTM F1773-09(2015), ASTM F2209-10, ASTM F1773-09, ASTM F1633-97(2008), ASTM F1773-97(2004), ASTM F1633-97(2003), ASTM F2209-03, ASTM F1633-97, ASTM F1773-97, ASTM F3098-16, ASTM F3175-16, ASTM F2209-20. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM F3071-14(2020) 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: F3071 − 14 (Reapproved 2020)
Standard Guide for
Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW)
Endorsement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F3071; 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 mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills,
and abilities required to use a GPS/GNSS receiver to deter-
2. Referenced Documents
mine one’s position, and collect location data, in the wilder-
2.1 ASTM Standards:
ness.
F1633 Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn
1.2 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver
2017)
on land, on and off roads, and on small bodies of water,
F1773 Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering,
wherever GPS/GNSS signals can be received.
Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
1.3 This guide applies to the use of a GPS/GNSS receiver in
F2209 Guide for Training of Land Search Team Member
disasterareaswherelocalpositioningaidsorreferencesmaybe
lost or damaged. 3. Terminology
1.4 This guide does not apply to the use of a GPS/GNSS 3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
receiver on large bodies of water, at sea, or in the air. 3.1.1 Galileo, n—a GNSS currently under development by
the European Union.
1.5 A person who meets the requirements in this guide is
3.1.2 GLONASS (Globalnaya navigatsionnaya sputnik-
only prepared to operate a GPS/GNSS receiver to determine
ovaya sistema), n—the GNSS owned and operated by the
his or her location, and collect position and movement
Russian Aerospace Defense Forces.
information, in a wilderness environment.
3.1.3 GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), n—a
1.6 This guide does not imply that a GPS/GNSS receiver is
navigation system utilizing a constellation of dedicated satel-
a replacement for a map and compass. Use of the latter is
lites to determine a location on or above the earth’s surface.
strongly recommended as a backup for GPS/GNSS navigation.
3.1.4 GNSS receiver, n—a radio receiver that uses satellite
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
signals to fix its location on or above the earth’s surface.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.5 GPS (Global Positioning System), n—the GNSS
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
owned and operated by the United States government.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1.6 map datum, n—the set of values used to define a
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
particular geodetic model used by a GPS/GNSS receiver to
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
determine its location.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.2 Definitions of terms not defined in this standard can be
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
found inASTM Guide F1633, Guide F1773, and Guide F2209.
4. Significance and Use
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F32 on Search and
Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.03 on Personnel,
4.1 This guide establishes the minimum knowledge, skills,
Training and Education.
andabilitiesrequiredtouseaGPS/GNSSreceivertodetermine
Current edition approved April 1, 2020. Published April 2020. Originally
approved in 2014. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as F3071 – 14. DOI:
10.1520/F3071-14R20.
2 3
This guide refers to GPS/GNSS, rather than GPS, receivers, due to the For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
increasing number of global satellite navigation systems worldwide. Currently, only contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
GPS and GLONASS are in operation and provide global satellite coverage. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
However, satellite navigation receivers are now manufactured which are capable of the ASTM website.
utilizing GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellites to determine a position on or above The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
the earth’s surface. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F3071 − 14 (2020)
a position and collect navigational data in the wilderness. A 5. General Knowledge of a GPS/GNSS Receiver
person trained to this guide shall be endorsed for Basic
5.1 A person endorsed for Basic Wilderness GPS/GNSS
Wilderness GPS/GNSS Use (GPS/GNSS-IW Endorsed).
Use shall demonstrate knowledge of the following:
4.1.1 Every person who is endorsed for Basic Wilderness
5.1.1 How a GPS/GNSS receiver may be used;
GPS
...




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