Image 9. A searcher using a handheld torch to aid visual observation of a room with lower light levels
1.3. IED CLEARANCE PARAMETERS
Historically, MA clearance was defined in IMAS 04.10 as:
“… in the context of mine action, the term refers to tasks or actions to ensure the removal and/ or the destruction of all mine and ERW hazards from a specified area to a specified depth”.
Although specifying depth for certain spaces contaminated by IEDs remains extremely pertinent, additional clearance parameters need to be set in order for there to be confidence that the space is safe.
In 2018 this was revised and clearance is now defined in IMAS 04.10 as:
“… in the context of mine action, the term refers to tasks or actions to ensure the removal and/ or the destruction of all Explosive Ordnance from a specified area to a specified depth or other agreed parameters as stipulated by the NMAA/Tasking Authority”. This new 2018 definition of clearance can be more effectively applied to urban areas that frequently incorporate different types of ‘area’ in one MA task site. It means that specific parameters for clearance other than depth can be set, with suitable quality management checks and inspections put in place to ensure they are met during clearance and subsequent reporting. Having this ability to specify parameters other than just depth is used in IMAS 09.13 Building Clearance with the statement that: “A building shall be accepted as “cleared” when the MA organisation has ensured that all structural surfaces, loose items and household fittings are free from EO.” Image 10 illustrates why this is important:
Introduction
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