MA operators should employ search procedures that use a number of linked principle-based core skills to form a toolkit of options to find IEDs. In this sub-section the following core skills are described: 1. Core skill 1 – Visual search from a safe area 2. Core skill 2 – Visual search using an aid such as a tripwire ‘feeler’, mirror or laser 3. Core skill 3 – Handheld detector sweep 4. Core skill 4 – Fingertip search 5. Core skill 5 – Progressive marking of safe areas 6. Core skill 6 – Excavation and confirmation 7. Core skill 7 – Semi-remote search (hook and line) 8. Core skill 8 – Dealing with vegetation 9. Core skill 9 – Handovers during manual search
OPEN AREA SEARCH
Survey and clearance of urban areas is not confined to buildings and structures. Open areas, transport routes, gardens, parks, sports fields, and undeveloped or waste ground may be contaminated with IEDs; if this is suspected or confirmed they will need to be released.
BUILDING SEARCH
The challenges of land release in buildings and structures are not confined to the characteristics of the devices likely to be found. The environment will require unique methods and approaches in addition to the fundamentals recommended here. Each procedure and technique will have a postscript concerning buildings and structures.
SEARCH PROCEDURE EXAMPLES
These are examples of how the core skills can be incorporated into procedures to provide a capability to meet a specific hazard in an environment. The application of core skills and procedures will depend heavily on the EO type, the environment it is in and how it came to be there. Below are some examples of combinations of core skills used to meet specific hazards, including considerations where the search coordinator may have to adapt them because of restrictions, while still meeting the clearance parameters.
SEARCH FOR COMMAND WIRES (CWS)
When could it be employed? / what is the threat?
• Isolation of a CP location
• Isolation of a task area
• Isolation of a suspected IED
This procedure is employed when the threat assessment has identified the reasonable possibility of a CW device that will present a hazard to the search team. While it is highly unlikely that the person who emplaced it and who was going to fire the device is still in the area, a CW device presents an explosive hazard where the control of its detonation may be outside of the task area. For this reason, a mine action operator should try to discount its presence, or identify and take control of the device at the earliest opportunity.
Search core skills and procedures
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