Vehicle clearance will always entail a manual approach by the MA IEDD operator at some stage in the task and it is essential that a systematic approach is taken. The following is a suggested approach on how it could be undertaken (although it will be heavily influenced by whether the task is being conducted in a CHA or is a spot hazard task): • 20 metre underside check. On approaching the vehicle, the MA IEDD operator should stop 20 metres from the vehicle and look underneath for anything obviously suspicious. A high-powered torch may be required for this. • 20 metre 360 degrees around vehicle. Depending on the threat in the surrounding area, it may be appropriate for the MA IEDD operator to conduct a 360 degree check around the vehicle at 20 metres to check the area. Whilst MA IEDD operators will not be working on devices where they are intentionally being targeted, this does not preclude legacy devices being present to target security force disposal operations. • 5 metre 360 degrees around vehicle. The IEDD operator performs a full loop of the vehicle at 5 metres with the focus on checking the MLCAs and looking for anything else immediately obvious.
Image 3. IEDD operator moving around the vehicle at 5 metres checking the MLCAs
• 1 metre 360 degrees around vehicle. The MA IEDD operator performs a full loop of the vehicle within 1 metre. They are checking wheel arches, under seats, internal storage compartments, all from outside the vehicle. • Detailed underside check. The MA IEDD operator performs a full loop of the vehicle to check the underside in detail. This will require them to lay on the floor with their head under or very close to the vehicle. A rod or pole with mounted mirror can aid in viewing blind spots and a torch is also extremely helpful. It may be necessary for the MA IEDD operator to remove their helmet or items of PPE to enable access. These must be replaced as soon as the access issue has passed. It is advisable to split the underside into eight distinct points, with four points being behind the wheels and the other four points being the midpoint between the wheels. Each point should be checked in turn. The vehicle should not be touched by the operator until the detailed underside check has been concluded.
IEDD techniques and procedures
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