3.1.1. PHASE 1 – ARRIVAL AND INITIAL QUESTIONING Whether an integral component of an MA clearance operation, or arriving independently at a task site, an IEDD operator should perform initial questioning. If arriving independently the IEDD operator will need to establish who is best placed to answer initial questions. This is likely to include the task site manager, team leader or individual searcher / deminer. If the IEDD operator is integrated into the clearance operation, then some of the information may be known to them already. However, at a minimum the searcher / deminer who located the IED should still be questioned. The aim of the initial questioning is to quickly establish key information that enables the IEDD operator to ensure everyone’s safety, including that of the IEDD team, before any further action is taken. Initial questioning ascertains the following:
WHAT?
What has been identified? Colours, materials, position and orientation.
WHERE?
Where is the suspected IED located in relation to the CP and MA staff?
What cordon and evacuation plan has been implemented? At an MA worksite some cordon and evacuation should already be in place, but the IEDD operator should always check that it is appropriate. Is there anything which could enhance the effects of an explosion or present an additional hazard during the RSP? This may require the cordon to be adjusted and / or require assistance from other agencies. It should also include the gathering of information regarding any damage to infrastructure.
CORDON AND EVACUATION
OTHER HAZARDS
CASUALTY / MEDICAL EVACUATION PLAN
What is the casualty / medical evacuation plan? This should be confirmed by the IEDD operator.
ׁ HINT. IEDD operators should use these points to help prevent any important pieces of information being missed.
CORDON AND EVACUATION
The IEDD operator must carry out an assessment of the explosive danger that the suspected IED presents. This should include additional hazards associated with directional and projected IEDs. They must ensure that the cordon and evacuation is sufficient and the CP is sited in a safe area. Where exact information cannot be ascertained, the IEDD operator must use their judgement, erring on the side of caution.
ׁ HINT. A common mantra used is “be quick to implement a cordon and slow to reduce it”.
In an urban environment it can be challenging to achieve adequate cordon and evacuation. However, the safety distance can sometimes be reduced following a risk assessment that considers variables such as:
• Protective works
• Approximate NEQ
• Anticipated explosive type
• Pre-existing physical barriers
ׁ WARNING. The IEDD operator must ensure that NMAS and accredited organisational SOPs are followed when reducing the size of cordon and evacuation.
IEDD task conduct
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