Image 11. Image highlighting non-explosive hazards
1.4.1.GENERAL SAFETY MANAGEMENT DURING IED SEARCH OPERATIONS
Searching for IEDs, especially in urban environments, is a challenging task due to three specific factors: the nature of the explosive contamination, the frequency of encounters with non-explosive hazards, and the injurious nature of these non-explosive hazards. The NMAA should use IMAS 10.10 Safety & occupational health - General requirements as guidance in the development of associated NMAS. If these NMAS do not exist, then MA organisations should use this IMAS to inform SOPs. Failing to properly manage these risks in the execution of IED search activities will likely adversely affect the safety, effectiveness and efficiency of operations. A key challenge for MA organisations operating in urban areas contaminated by IEDs will be the assessment of structural integrity. A risk management approach in accordance with IMAS 07.14 Risk Management in Mine Action is key, with the approaches outlined in this IMAS also commonly applied in other industries. Consideration should be given to:
• Use of tools to ensure hazards that pose a risk are identified;
• Controlling identified risks;
• Allocating responsibilities on worksite safety;
• Ensuring that “all reasonable effort” is made so that personnel working in a safe environment have appropriate equipment, such as PPE, including that required for non-explosive hazards;
• Ensuring all personnel have the relevant safety information required for their role and position;
• Ensuring all personnel are correctly trained and qualified for their role and assessed hazards;
• Ensuring that substances hazardous to health are stored and used correctly;
• Providing an uninhibited forum to discuss safety issues;
• Providing a means of recording accidents and incidents;
• Developing applicable emergency procedures;
• Conducting regular quality assurance (QA) checks to ensure that working conditions are as safe as possible.
Introduction
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