IMAS 09.

31
First Edition
(February 2019)

IMAS 09.31
First Edition
February 2019

Improvised Explosive Device

Disposal

Director,
United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS),
1 United Nations Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA

Email: mineaction@un.org
Telephone: (1 212) 963 1234
Website: www.mineactionstandards.org
 IMAS 09.31
First Edition
(February 2019)

Warning
This document is current with effect from the date shown on the cover page. As the
International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) are subject to regular review and revision,
users should consult the IMAS project website in order to verify its status at
(http://www.mineactionstandards.org/, or through the UNMAS website at
http://www.mineaction.org)

Copyright notice
The International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) are owned, controlled and copyrighted
by the United Nations. None of the materials provided in IMAS may be used, reproduced
or disseminated, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, without prior written
permission from the United Nations acting through the United Nations Mine Action
Service (UNMAS), except as set out below. None of the materials in IMAS are to be sold.

The use, reproduction or re-dissemination of IMAS by third parties, in whole or in part, is

permitted provided that the United Nations is appropriately attributed and provided also
that such use, reproduction or re-dissemination is not for commercial purposes. The
United Nations may be attributed by the placement of the following text: Used and
reproduced with permission of the United Nations.

Director
United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS)
1 United Nations Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA

Email: mineaction@un.org
Telephone: (1 212) 963 1234

© UNMAS 2018 – All rights reserved

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Contents
Warning ........................................................................................................................................ 1
Copyright notice .......................................................................................................................... 1
Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 2
Foreword ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 5
1. Scope .................................................................................................................................. 6
2. References .......................................................................................................................... 6
3. Terms, definitions and abbreviations .................................................................................. 6
4. General considerations ....................................................................................................... 7
4.1. Safety of personnel ........................................................................................................ 7
4.2. Threat Analysis and Threat Assessment ....................................................................... 7
4.3. IED categories ............................................................................................................... 7
4.4. Community engagement ................................................................................................ 7
5. MA procedures and an operational approach to IEDD ....................................................... 7
5.1. Guiding philosophy ........................................................................................................ 8
5.2. General principles .......................................................................................................... 8
5.3. Mandatory actions .......................................................................................................... 8
5.4. Working practices .......................................................................................................... 9
5.5. Management Oversight and Referrals ........................................................................... 9
6. Phases of IEDD ................................................................................................................... 9
6.1. Phase 1. Arrival and initial questioning ......................................................................... 9
6.1.1. Cordon and Evacuation ............................................................................................ 9
6.1.2. Urban Safety Distances .......................................................................................... 10
6.2. Phase 2. Detailed Questioning and Threat Assessment ............................................ 10
6.2.1. Detailed Questioning............................................................................................... 10
6.2.2. Threat Assessment ................................................................................................. 10
6.3. Phase 3. Evaluation and Planning .............................................................................. 11
6.3.1. Planning .................................................................................................................. 11
6.4. Phase 4. Execution ...................................................................................................... 11
6.4.1. Mark, avoid and report ............................................................................................ 11
6.4.2. Destruction in-situ (High Order) .............................................................................. 12
6.4.3. Destruction in-situ (Burning / Low Order) ............................................................... 12
6.4.4. RSP resulting in permanent neutralisation ............................................................. 12
6.5. Phase 5. Final disposal and reporting ......................................................................... 13
6.5.1. Final Disposal ......................................................................................................... 13
6.5.2. Information management and reporting.................................................................. 13
7. Qualifications and Training................................................................................................ 13
7.1. Qualifications ............................................................................................................... 13
7.2. Certification .................................................................................................................. 14
7.3. Quality and audit of IEDD qualifications ...................................................................... 14
7.4. IEDD Team .................................................................................................................. 15
8. Quality Management ......................................................................................................... 15
9. Responsibilities ................................................................................................................. 15
9.1. National Mine Action Authority ..................................................................................... 15
9.2. Mine action organisations ............................................................................................ 15
9.3. IEDD Training Organisation ......................................................................................... 16

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Annex A (Normative) References................................................................................................ 17

Annex B (Informative) Operational Equipment ............................................................................ 18
Annex C (Informative) Working Practices and Management Oversight ...................................... 20

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Foreword
International standards for humanitarian demining programmes were first proposed by working
groups at an international technical conference in Denmark, in July 1996. Criteria were
prescribed for all aspects of demining, standards were recommended and a new universal
definition of ‘clearance’ was agreed. In late 1996, the principles proposed in Denmark were
developed by a UN-led working group and the International Standards for Humanitarian Mine
Clearance Operations were developed. A first edition was issued by the UN Mine Action Service
(UNMAS) in March 1997.

The scope of these original standards has since been expanded to include the other
components of mine action and to reflect changes to operational procedures, practices and
norms. The standards were re-developed and renamed as International Mine Action Standards
(IMAS) with the first edition produced in October 2001.

The United Nations has a general responsibility for enabling and encouraging the effective
management of mine action programmes, including the development and maintenance of
standards. UNMAS, therefore, is the office within the United Nations responsible for the
development and maintenance of IMAS. IMAS are produced with the assistance of the Geneva
International Centre for Humanitarian Demining.

The work of preparing, reviewing and revising IMAS is conducted by technical committees, with
the support of international, governmental and non-governmental organisations. The latest
version of each standard, together with information on the work of the technical committees, can
be found at http://www.mineactionstandards.org/. Individual IMAS are reviewed at least every
three years to reflect developing mine action norms and practices and to incorporate changes to
international regulations and requirements.

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Introduction
In today’s asymmetric environment it is important that the mine action sector is prepared to
respond to the wide variety of threats that exist as a consequence of conflict, including those
posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Traditionally the guidance provided in
International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) has reflected the fact that mine action activities
have focussed mainly on mitigating the risks posed by explosive ordnance (EO) that has been
produced and assembled to formally specified set of manufacturing standards. This standard
has therefore been developed in order to complement the existing guidance for mine action
operations. It should not be seen as a standalone document but rather as an integral
component of an IMAS framework that, when applied, ensures safety, quality and efficiency in
activities being conducted, and thereby providing confidence in mine action operations.
References to other standards, included in the text below, should therefore be seen as
constituting normative provisions of this part of the standard.

An IED is defined as a device placed or fabricated in an improvised manner incorporating

explosive material, destructive, lethal, noxious, incendiary, pyrotechnic materials or chemicals
designed to destroy, disfigure, distract or harass. They may incorporate military stores, but are
normally devised from non-military components1. There are, by definition, no manufacturing
standards for IED construction; additionally those who manufacture IEDs continuously alter the
characteristics, the functioning or the delivery method of the device. IEDs are employed in a
variety of different contexts, these can include; use in open areas, where these devices might
be used to counter mobility and/or deny access to specific open areas, such as approaches to
an area, resource, or facility that is being protected; as well as in urban spaces or buildings
where IED contamination presents a different technical challenge and requires an additional set
of skills, equipment and procedures. Although IEDs are among the world’s oldest types of
weapons, the increased use of IEDs as a weapon of choice by non-state armed groups has
been a clear trend in recent years. IEDs impede humanitarian access and impact on civilians,
international relief agencies and clearance organisations. As a consequence the mine action
sector is increasingly being called upon to help to address the humanitarian impact of the
widespread use of IEDs in recent conflicts.

IED Disposal (IEDD) in a mine action context is the location2, identification, rendering safe and
final disposal of IEDs. Mine action organisations may be called upon to conduct IEDD activities
within any context that they operate, and as such always need to be mindful of the requirements
associated with the specific task or operation being conducted. The layout and complexity of the
operating context has a significant bearing on the skillsets required to safely carry out IEDD as
part of a larger mine action intervention. The safe conduct of IEDD, relies upon appropriately
trained and qualified operators having a thorough understanding of the area that they are
working in, and of the increasing complexity of these types of devices.

The overarching aim of this standard is to provide specifications and guidance for the
management of IEDD as a part of mine action operations in whichever context mine action
operators are being deployed. This standard outlines the competencies required by individuals
to meet the minimum requirements relating to IEDD operations in a mine action context. Whilst
reference is made to quality of training, this document does not outline quality requirements for
clearance operations, as these are addressed in other IMAS within the series. It covers
principles and management responsibilities for IEDD as a specific subset of Explosive
Ordnance Disposal (EOD). The guidance herein, including the associated annexes, and
Technical and Evaluation Protocols (T&EP) have been developed to assist National Mine Action
Authorities (NMAA) in countries affected by IED contamination. The content has been designed
to inform the development of national standards and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs),
which are tailored to, and appropriate for, the threat posed in specific operating contexts.

1
See IMAS 04.10.
2
Denotes location of the device/components, by the IED operator that has been tasked to dispose of a specific IED.

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Improvised Explosive Device Disposal

1. Scope
This document details requirements to plan, execute and report IEDD activities, it also details
responsibilities and obligations of the organisations involved where IEDD is conducted as part of
a MA programme3. Within this context, IEDD may be the primary activity conducted by MA
organisations or it may be an associated activity with other MA activities. Quality requirements
for clearance are addressed in other IMAS.

2. References
A list of normative and informative references is given in Annex A. Normative references are
important documents to which reference is made in this standard and which form part of the
provisions of this standard.

3. Terms, definitions and abbreviations

A complete glossary of all the terms, definitions and abbreviations used in the IMAS series is
given in IMAS 04.10.

In the IMAS series, the words 'shall', 'should' and 'may' are used to indicate the intended degree
of compliance.

a) 'shall' is used to indicate requirements, methods or specifications that are to be applied

to conform to the standard;
b) 'should' is used to indicate the preferred requirements, methods or specifications; and
c) 'may' is used to indicate a possible method or course of action.

The term 'National Mine Action Authority' (NMAA) refers to the government entity, often an
interministerial committee, in an EO-affected country charged with the responsibility for broad
strategic, policy and regulatory decisions related to mine action.

Note: In the absence of an NMAA, it may be necessary and appropriate for the UN, or some other body,
to assume some or all of the responsibilities of an NMAA.

The term ‘Improvised Explosive Device’ (IED) refers to a device placed or fabricated in an
improvised manner incorporating explosive material, destructive, lethal, noxious, incendiary,
pyrotechnic materials or chemicals designed to destroy, disfigure, distract or harass. They may
incorporate military stores, but are normally devised from non-military components.4

The term ‘Improvised Explosive Device Disposal`(IEDD) refers to the location5, identification,
rendering safe and final disposal of IEDs.

The term ‘Positive Action’ refers to any action taken by the operator that will disturb, move,
render safe, destroy or introduce any outside influence on EO 6.

3
See IMAS 1.10 for a description of the definition and scope of MA.
4
An IED may meet the definition of a mine, booby trap, and/or other type of explosive ordnance depending on its
construction. These devices may also be referred to as improvised, artisanal, or locally manufactured mines, booby
traps, or other types of explosive ordnance.
5
Denotes location of the device/components, by the IED operator that has been tasked to dispose of a specific IED.
6
This includes actions such as X-ray or any other activity that may change the state of the EO.

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The term ‘Safe Waiting Period(s)’ refers to waiting times which an operator 7 must allow to
elapse prior to making a manual approach, including approaches after conducting a remote or
semi-remote positive actions.8

The term ‘Remote Action’ refers to positive actions that can be carried out without the need for
an EOD operator to leave the EOD Control Point (CP) and approach suspected EO.

The term ‘Semi-Remote Action’ refers to positive actions that require the EOD operator to leave
the EOD Control Point (CP) and approach the immediate vicinity of the EO in order to place an
EOD tool which is then operated/activated remotely once the EOD operator has returned to the
CP.

The term ‘Render Safe Procedures (RSP)’ refers to the application of EOD methods and tools
on EO to interrupt functions or separate components to prevent an unacceptable detonation 9.

4. General considerations
4.1. Safety of personnel

MA organisations need to be sensitive to the context in which they are operating. The level of
safety of personnel working in IED affected areas needs to be considered on an on-going basis,
given that both; the nature of IED contamination encountered, and the operating contexts can
be subject to regular change, leading to high levels of uncertainty. As with any MA intervention
humanitarian principles must be upheld and be at the forefront in determining whether
operations are appropriate.

4.2. Threat Analysis and Threat Assessment

Threat analysis (at the national level), and Threat Assessment (at the site/task level) together
form a set of processes that are a crucial pre-requisite to the conduct of safe, effective and
efficient IEDD operations. Guidance on these issues is provided in IMAS 07.1410.

4.3. IED categories

IEDs generally consist of a switch, power source, initiator, container and a main charge
(explosives). All IEDs can be classified as either timed, command, or victim-operated.

4.4. Community engagement

Establishing and maintaining community engagement is critical to ensuring the required level of
consent from the local population for IEDD operations. Such engagement also ensures that
accurate and timely information regarding the nature and scope of IED contamination is
collected, along with other information relating to safety and security.

5. MA procedures and an operational approach to IEDD

The mine action approach to IEDD is characterised by guiding philosophies supported by an
interlinked set of general principles, mandatory actions, management oversight, and working
practices. The aim of IEDD is to provide a capability for MA organisations to dispose IED
contamination, which meet those obligations laid out in the Convention on Certain Conventional

7
Throughout this IMAS chapter EOD operators conducting IEDD are referred to as IEDD operators.
8
The term ‘soak time’ is sometimes used interchangeably here.
9
The term `permanent neutralisation` is sometimes used interchangeably here. EO is said to be “neutralised” when it
has been rendered, by external means, incapable of firing on passage of a target, although it may remain dangerous to
handle.
10
IMAS under development, Threat Analysis and Assesment material available from the Secretary.

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Weapons (CCW), Amended Protocol II (AP II) and the Anti-personnel Mine Ban Convention
(APMBC).

5.1. Guiding philosophy

The following statements, listed in order of importance, together make up the guiding philosophy
used when undertaking IEDD operations in a MA intervention. They provide the overarching
direction for the planning and execution of IEDD activities in a mine action context:

• Preservation of life;
• Preservation of infrastructure and property;
• Restoration of the situation to normality as quickly as possible commensurate with
safety or the quality requirements for the task;
• Gathering technical information to inform the national threat analysis and task level
Threat Assessment.

5.2. General principles

During the development of national standards, SOPs, clearance plans and Render Safe
Procedures (RSPs), the following eight IEDD principles should be observed:

• Manual neutralisation techniques. Manual neutralisations techniques should not be

conducted. Remote (if available) and semi-remote actions should be conducted to
neutralise and/or dispose IEDs;
• Destruction in-situ. When feasible destruction in-situ, using an explosive donor charge
targeting the main charge(s) of the IED is the preferred method of disposal11;
• Neutralisation. Water based energetic disruption of the power source(s) is the
preferred means of neutralisation12;
• One-person risk. Manual approaches should be conducted as a one-person risk13;
Time spent inside the explosive danger area should be minimised and a robust plan
should be developed and briefed before leaving the CP;
• Safe waiting (soak) times. Appropriate safe waiting times should be applied after a
positive action is conducted14;
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on all approaches. Appropriate15 PPE should
be worn on all manual approaches to a suspect IED;
• Cordon and Evacuation. Appropriate cordon and evacuation should be in place before
conducting any positive action16; and
• Component handling. All IED components should be moved remotely or semi-
remotely prior to any manual handling.

5.3. Mandatory actions

Mandatory actions provide specific direction to support IEDD Philosophies and Principles.
NMAA and MA organisations should adopt mandatory actions that are appropriate to context
specific operational considerations. The following two mandatory actions are generally
applicable to IEDD activities and provide examples from which further manual action can be
based:

11
Damage to critical infrastructure and access to energetics will influence when demolition in-situ can be conducted.
12
If this is not possible then remote and semi-remote component separation should be conducted.
13
It may be appropriate for additional logistical support to be provided while RSP is being set up. However, only one
person should be within a defined distance from the suspected or confirmed IED.
14
As a minimum, 10 minutes should be applied after a positive action is conducted prior to making another manual
approach.
15
National authorities and MA operators should conduct a Risk Assessment based on the explosive threat and
operational activities to determine appropriate PPE requirements for IEDD.
16
Determining the exact Net Explosive Quantity (NEQ) and fragmentation hazard from an IED is unlikely to be possible
before conducting positive actions.

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• In the event that an IED is identified which is suspected to have been emplaced since
survey was conducted or clearance commenced, all operations shall be suspended
immediately. Work shall only resume once it has been ascertained that the MA
organisation is not being deliberately targeted, or that sufficient security is in place;

• Prior to the disposal of specific device types17 a pre-disposal plan shall be produced in
writing and be subject to the appropriate level of approval.

5.4. Working practices

Working practices are a series of general measures that are specific to IEDD inside operational
conditions. They provide supporting detail to help guide IEDD operators and facilitate Quality
Assurance (QA) and monitoring of IEDD operations. Working practices will vary, sometimes
considerably, depending on operational contexts, reflecting both the IED threat and specific
limitations, such as access to explosives 18. An informative list of example practices that can be
widely applied is contained in Annex C.

5.5. Management Oversight and Referrals

MA organisations should maintain effective communications throughout IEDD operations.

Individual operators or teams must be able to seek advice and/or approval when deviating from
the approved clearance plan, principles or mandatory actions. An informative list of widely
applicable referrals at both the NMAA and organisational level is included in Annex C.

6. Phases of IEDD19

• Phase 1. Arrival and initial questioning

• Phase 2. Detailed Questioning and Threat Assessment
• Phase 3. Evaluation and planning
• Phase 4. Task Execution
• Phase 5. Final disposal and reporting

6.1. Phase 1. Arrival and initial questioning

Where an IEDD capacity is independent of a clearance team that is locating and identifying IED
contamination, IEDD operators will need to be briefed on their arrival at the task site. The IEDD
operator should ask questions designed to enable an initial assessment on the explosive threat,
enabling them to assess the requirement for mitigation measures such as cordon and
evacuation. This should ensure that both staff and local people are safe. The key information
requirements are establishing the location of the IED and assessing its likely explosive hazard
to ensure that the appropriate cordon, evacuation and any supporting services are in place prior
to continuing with the IEDD process.

6.1.1. Cordon and Evacuation

Before any IEDD positive actions begin, an appropriate cordon should be put in place. This may
necessitate a requirement to evacuate members of the local population. There should be an
effective communication system between cordon sentries. Sentries should be positioned at
suitable locations to mitigate un-intentional access into the explosive danger area. In some
cases, assistance from the local police or security forces may be requested. In such

17
These device types may include VBIEDs, RCIEDs, Passive Infra-Red (PIR) IED and other sensors. NMAA and MA
organisations should determine the approval measures required.
18
Supporting TNMAs will be developed to provide additional details on individual pieces of equipment, tools, and
techniques such as improvised bottle charges, thermite and non-explosive wire cutting techniques.
19
Certain military doctorines outline 10 generic phases of an EOD operation that may be relevant: to IEDD, may vary in
sequence and may not all apply to every IEDD operation. This list has been developed to reflect generic requirements
for an IEDD operation conducted as part of a functioning mine action programme that is managed by an NMAA or
tasking authority acting on their behalf.

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circumstances MA organisations should endeavour to ensure that humanitarian principles are

not compromised.

6.1.2. Urban Safety Distances

If operating in a congested urban environment, achieving adequate cordon and evacuation
distances may be a challenge. It may be possible to reduce safety distances through risk
assessments that consider variables such as: protective works, approximate Net Explosive
Quantity (NEQ) and explosive type of anticipated main charges or the presence of pre-existing
physical barriers. The NMAA should provide clear guidance on the appropriate applicable risk
assessment process including control measures and application of mitigating factors.

6.2. Phase 2. Detailed Questioning and Threat Assessment

6.2.1. Detailed Questioning

As much detailed information as possible should be gathered regarding the specific IED threat.
The extent to which detailed questioning will be used will vary depending on a number of task-
specific operational and contextual factors, including; previous information and experience in
the area of the task and the availability of witnesses.

As a minimum, the deminer / searcher that identified the suspect device, the immediate
supervisor and the task supervisor, should be subject to detailed questioning. Additional
witnesses may include:

• Local security force personnel;

• Former combatants;
• Civilians living and working in proximity to the site;
• Local government officials;
• Landowners, infrastructure workers and managers.

Questioning should not be leading (e.g. “was the wire green?”) but designed to facilitate an
open forum for witnesses to divulge information. Wherever possible there is a requirement to
establish:

• ‘Who’ – was being targeted by the IED?

• ‘Who’ – placed the IED?
• ‘What’ – components have been utilised in the device?
• ‘Where’ – are the components located?
• ‘When’ – was the IED emplaced?
• ‘Why’ – was the IED emplaced?

Whilst it is not appropriate to provide a script of template questions it may be useful to consider
structuring questioning around the means of initiation. It is essential to consider the conditions in
which the device was originally emplaced as these may have changed considerably in the
intervening time period.

6.2.2. Threat Assessment

A robust, site specific Threat Assessment is a crucial prerequisite to the conduct of any IEDD
operation. Threat Assessment involves the analysis of three interlinked areas of Intent,
Capability and Opportunity. Additional guidance on Threat Assessment is provided in IMAS
07.14, Annex C20.

20
IMAS under development, Threat Analysis and Assesment material available from the Secretary.

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6.3. Phase 3. Evaluation and Planning

The Threat Assessment should be used as the basis for developing a plan prior to approaching
a suspected IED. This should contain an evaluation of the potential device specifications, with
the ‘most likely’ and ‘worst case’ scenarios considered.

This evaluation should include:

• Method of initiation (Time / Command / Victim Operated);

• The layout and position of component parts;
• Types of switch(es) (high Metal Content / Low Metal Content);
• Type of main charge(s) including NEQ and fragmentation hazard;
• Number and type of initiators (detonators) and if possible the type and colour of
electrical leads21; and
• Number, type and configuration of power sources.

The cordon/evacuation area may be re-adjusted based on the assessed hazard radius.

6.3.1. Planning
The RSP for each IED should be planned at the control point (CP). The time spent inside the
explosive danger area should be minimised while the threat of a functional device still exists.
The plan should cover the full execution of the task and the IEDD operator in charge should
provide a brief to the wider team.

As a minimum this brief should include:

• The location of the device, CP, medical point and sentries/cordon;

• The approach route to the device;
• ‘Actions on' in the event of an unexpected explosion or accident;
• Casualty evacuation procedures from the device to CP, CP to hospital, etc;
• Outline of the planned technical RSP and approximate time required;
• Communications methods between the IEDD operator, the cordon and team members;
and
• Details of any secondary hazards in the area (e.g. petrol stations, power lines etc).

After each approach the IEDD operator should ensure that the team is briefed and advised on
any changes to the plan before a subsequent approach is attempted.

6.4. Phase 4. Execution

Task Execution can be classified into four categories:

• Mark, avoid and report;

• Destruction in-situ (High Order);
• Destruction in-situ (Burning / Low Order); and
• RSP resulting in permanent neutralisation.

6.4.1. Mark, avoid and report

There may be situations where a mine action operator elects to mark, avoid and report a
suspected IED to the NMAA. This may include cases where a specific procedure or plan needs
to be documented and approved prior to disposal. In cases where capabilities for disposal and
clearance do not exist, or are not available on a given programme, then the national authority
should develop robust processes to support either the long-term marking and avoidance of an
IED, or the development of new technical capacities or SOPs to facilitate its disposal.

21
This information is important if component separation techniques are to be used to remotely (if available) or semi-
remotely cut electrical detonator leads.

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6.4.2. Destruction in-situ (High Order)

Controlled ‘high order’ destruction is generally the preferred method of disposal and should be
conducted by placing a suitable donor charge of serviceable explosives close to but not
touching the main charge.

If the main charge is not easily accessible, then introducing an element of safety should be
considered prior to extensive manual excavation. The safest option is disruption of the power
source(s); if this is not possible then semi-remote cutting of a single electrical link may be
considered. Such considerations are particularly pertinent when the device layout is such that
the IEDD operator will need to excavate in close proximity to the firing switch in order to gain
access to the main charge.22

Shaped charges may be another option. Assuming a shape charge is powerful enough it may
be possible to destroy IED main charges in-situ, with no requirement to conduct additional
excavation. NMAA and MA operators should develop specific guidance on the type and size of
the shaped charges that may be employed in specific operational contexts.

6.4.3. Destruction in-situ (Burning / Low Order)

When a high order event is undesirable, or when the necessary equipment or explosives are not
available, then burning or other ‘low order’ techniques may be considered23.

When executing this type of disposal, the IEDD operator should:

• Plan for a high order event/detonation;

• Plan for a low order event/detonation; and
• Apply an igniferous safe waiting period of a minimum of 30 minutes after the last sign of
smoke.

As per disposal in-situ, if access to the main charge requires excavation in the vicinity of a firing
switch, then introducing an additional element of safety into the IED’s firing circuit should be
considered.

6.4.4. RSP resulting in permanent neutralisation

An RSP is conducted to permanently neutralise an IED. The end result is that the device is in a
safe state and the only action required is the final disposal of any explosive components
including main charge(s) and detonators.

An RSP will involve a series of remote (if available) and semi-remote actions that will normally
be conducted over a series of manual approaches by an IEDD operator from the CP to the IED.
An RSP should be executed in accordance with the prescribed IEDD Philosophies and
Principles, as well as the Mandatory Actions, Referrals and Working Practices that have been
developed, accredited and documented in a MA organisation’s SOPs. An IEDD operator should
plan for the Worst Case, Best Case and Most Likely case scenarios and should brief the key
site personnel accordingly.

MA organisations should consider developing specific guidance for conducting RSPs on device
types that are common to the programmes in which they operate.

In countries where an IED threat is anticipated national standards should ensure that the
development and detailing of RSP techniques and procedures that are specific to IEDD are a
component of SOPs, such as Barrel and Bottle Charge Disruptors; J Knife, detonating cord and
other semi-remote cutting techniques and shaped charges.

22
If the IED main charge is not easily accessible then destruction in-situ may not be an appropriate option. IEDD
operators should also be aware of the threat posed by linked or ‘daisy-chained’ IED main charges which may be spread
over considerable distances.
23
It may also be possible to cause a deliberate high order using a burning technique by targeting the detonator; this
removes issues with safe waiting times and hazards created by burning buried main charges.

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6.5. Phase 5. Final disposal and reporting

6.5.1. Final Disposal

Where an IED is not disposed of in-situ there will be a requirement to conduct final disposal of
components containing explosives. The preferred method of disposal for bulk IED main charges
is by explosive demolition in accordance with IMAS procedures for bulk demolition24.

When high explosives are not available, final disposal by burning may also be considered. The
effectiveness of this will depend on the type, quantity, and condition of the HME or
military/commercial explosive. Single item or small scale bulk disposal is recommended, as
burning large amounts of HME can pose challenges in maintaining an appropriate cordon to the
burn time rate.

Other non-explosives mean, such as mechanically breaking down HME main charges, are
options in extreme circumstances. However, large quantities of certain types of HME may have
significant impact on the environment due to the presence toxic chemicals. Even ammonium
nitrate (fertilizer) based HMEs may contain fuels such as aluminium that are substantial
pollutants.

6.5.2. Information management and reporting

All relevant information gathering methodologies should be used during the Threat Analysis,
Threat Assessment and IEDD decision-making process. IMAS 05.10 provides further details
about the principles and processes of information collation and analysis.

Access to the most relevant and up to date IED technical information is an essential component
of an effective IEDD operation. It drives the capability requirement, procedures and techniques
that are employed during IEDD operations, serves as the basis for RSPs and facilitates
continual improvement across the MA sector.

7. Qualifications and Training

IEDD is a subset of EOD, the guidance on IEDD qualifications described in this section and
detailed in associated IMAS Test and Evaluation Protocols (T&EP) should be seen as a means
of building on and complimenting existing IMAS guidance on EOD qualifications and associated
competencies.

7.1. Qualifications

IEDD is a complex undertaking that requires specific skillsets and specific qualifications which
should be appropriate to the assessed threat. Aspects of IEDD can be carried out at many
levels – this is as a consequence of the nature of IEDs which are limited only by small number
of factors, such as the ability and imagination of the person that made the device(s). IEDs can
range from simply constructed devices with a single firing switch, to extremely complex devices
comprising a number of complicated components, with multiple switches, power sources and
explosive charges.

IEDD qualifications should be appropriate to the assessed threat in the given operational
context. The qualifications of all IEDD operators shall satisfy the requirements and regulations
of the NMAA, or the authority acting on their behalf or in place of, who may request proof of
capability in addition to the qualification. IEDD qualifications are only recognised if the holder
also has the equivalent EOD qualification as detailed in T&EP 09.30/01/2014. Detailed
competencies and operating categories are listed at T&EP 09.31/01/2018 25. As a guide:

24
See IMAS 09.30.
25
These competencies have been developed to complement EOD competencies found in T&EP 09.30/01/2014.

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a) Level 1 (IEDD) qualification enables the trained holder of the qualification to understand
the broad threat context, processes of Threat Assessment and Threat Analysis, to
recognise IEDs expected within the specific context in which they have been trained, to
prepare IEDD equipment and under supervision, to search for IEDs as part of a
clearance team, under supervision. They may be directed to support the execution of
semi-remote actions by an appropriately qualified supervisor; Level One personnel are
not qualified to plan or conduct render safe procedures;

b) in addition to the skills of a Level 1 (IEDD) qualification, a Level 2 (IEDD) qualification

enables the holder to understand and critically evaluate the assessed threat: Level Two
operators are qualified to supervise the preparation of IEDD equipment and, under
supervision, to apply remote or semi-remote actions designed to locate IEDs. Level Two
personnel are not qualified to plan or conduct render safe procedures;

c) in addition to the skills of a Level 1 and 2 (IEDD) qualification a Level 3 (IEDD)

qualification enables the holder to conduct render-safe procedures and final disposal of
IEDs in a permissive environment; and

d) in addition to the skills of a Level 1, 2 and 3 (IEDD) qualification, which cover the skills
that are routinely required for humanitarian IEDD in a permissive environment, there
may be a requirement for additional specialist skills. The Level 3+ (IEDD) advanced
qualification is for specialist IEDD operators who have been trained in areas that are
needed to address specific threats in specific contexts, in any environment.

The Level 3+ (IEDD) qualification shall clearly indicate the specialist training received by each
individual, whether within core or specialist competencies.

Whenever there is a requirement for specialist skills not covered in the Level 3 qualification then
it is the duty of the contracting authorities to specify the additional skills required for a particular
task, and for the mine action organisations concerned to demonstrate that their Level 3+
operators have the higher-level training and experience appropriate for the task.

Special consideration should be given to the need for additional training, or for specific
exclusion from the category of competence.

Where particular items are frequently encountered, specific training in the disposal of these
items may be given to enable the operator to deal with them rather than continually refer the
problem to the next higher level of expertise.

7.2. Certification

At every level of IEDD competency the training organisation or recognised competent entity that
certifies an individual should, within the certification, explicitly list the disciplines on which the
individual has been trained.

To complement the certification individuals are encouraged to maintain logs of their application
of the training to demonstrate their operational experience.

7.3. Quality and audit of IEDD qualifications

NMAA and mine action organisations should develop performance criteria, appropriate
assessment tools and procedures in order to assess the level and quality of competence of
IEDD operators. This could include written tests, practical exercises, demonstrating a task, or
procedures for assessment of performance during EOD operations.

IEDD Competencies Standards provided in T&EP 09.31/01/2018 are designed to enhance the
process of planning and evaluating IEDD operator’s development and capacity building. Its use
can also help improve the assessment of training and competency of operators involved in
IEDD operations.

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7.4. IEDD Team

An IEDD capability can be incorporated into MA organisations in several forms. IEDD

operations should be carried out by competent staff, using suitable equipment (accredited
where appropriate) in compliance with prevailing safety and operational standards, and in
accordance with approved methodologies and team structures satisfying the requirements of
NMAS.

8. Quality Management
Specific quality requirements for clearance operations are provided in IMAS 09.10, IMAS 09.11
and 09.13. General guidance on the principles of quality management in mine action, as well as
minimum requirements for mine action quality management systems is provided in IMAS 07.12.

9. Responsibilities
9.1. National Mine Action Authority

The NMAA shall:

a) establish and maintain national standards for IEDD;

b) determine the national threat presented by improvised devices;

c) accredit mine action organisations as fit to undertake IEDD operations;

d) specify the standards and guidelines for QA and QC to be applied to IEDD operations;

e) establish and maintain performance criteria and tools for quality and audit of the IEDD;
operators deployed by mine action organisations;

f) establish and maintain the capability to accredit IEDD training organisations and
monitor the training and certification process;

g) establish and maintain the capability to accredit mine action organisations involved in
IEDD operations;

h) establish and maintain the capability to monitor the effectiveness, safety and measures
to protect the environment of mine action organisations involved in IEDD operations;

i) establish national systems for IEDD incident reporting; and

j) where necessary, seek assistance from other national governments in accordance with
bilateral and international arrangements to obtain the specialist expertise and
information necessary to establish safe and effective national standards for IEDD
procedures and operations.

9.2. Mine action organisations

The organisation undertaking IEDD shall:

a) obtain from the NMAA or organisation acting in place or on its behalf, accreditation for
IEDD operations;

b) establish and maintain SOPs for IEDD operations which comply with national
standards;

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c) ensure that the IEDD operators are competent and suitably trained, qualified and
equipped for all tasks undertaken;

d) apply SOPs for IEDD operations in a consistent, effective and safe manner which
include procedures to protect the environment; and

e) ensure that the affected community is fully cognisant of all IEDD activities (including
training), clearance regulations and implications.

9.3. IEDD Training Organisation

IEDD training organisations shall:

a) obtain from the NMAA or organisation acting in place of or on its behalf, accreditation
for IEDD training;

b) establish and maintain SOPs for IEDD training which comply with national or IMAS
standards, and other relevant standards and regulations, that reflect local conditions
and circumstances; and

c) establish and maintain certification procedures so that training completion certificates

explicitly list the disciplines on which the individual has been trained and has been
qualified as competent.

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Annex A
(Normative)
References
The following normative documents contain provisions, which, through reference in this text,
constitute provisions of this part of the standard. For dated references, subsequent
amendments to, or revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. However, parties to
agreements based on this part of the standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of
applying the most recent editions of the normative documents indicated below. For undated
references, the latest edition of the normative document referred applies.

a) IMAS 04.10 Glossary of mine action terms, definitions, and abbreviations;

b) IMAS 07.12 Quality Management in Mine Action;
c) IMAS 07.14 Risk Management in Mine Action (under development);
d) IMAS 07.30 Accreditation of demining organisations and operations;
e) IMAS 07.40 Monitoring of mine action organisations;
f) IMAS 08.10 Non-technical Survey;
g) IMAS 08.20 Technical Survey;
h) IMAS 09.10 Clearance requirements;
i) IMAS 09.11 Battle area clearance;
j) IMAS 09.13 Building Clearance;
k) IMAS 05.10 Information management for mine action;
l) IMAS 08.30 Post-clearance documentation;
m) IMAS 08.40 Marking mine and ERW hazards;
n) IMAS 09.50 Mechanical demining;
o) TNMA 10.10/03 Explosive Ordnance Hazard Risk Assessment in Debris;
Management (Rubble Removal) Operations;
p) TNMA 10.20/01 Estimation of Explosion Danger Areas.

The latest version/edition of these references should be used. The Geneva International Centre
for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) holds copies of all references used in this standard. A
register of the latest version/edition of the IMAS standards, guides and references is maintained
by GICHD, and can be read on the IMAS website (http://www.mineactionstandards.org/).

National mine action authorities, employers and other interested bodies and organisations
should obtain copies before commencing a mine action programme.

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Annex B
(Informative)
Operational Equipment
Table 1 in this annex provides an example of the basic equipment requirements for an IEDD
team operating in a programme with access to energetics including high explosives, disruptors
and thermite. TNMA will provide further guidance when the access to energetics is restricted.
Depending on the context and Threat Assessment NMAA and MA operators may include more
advanced equipment requirements, including those items listed in Table 2, based on specific
threats, operational and environmental conditions, and access through suitable importation
chains.

MA organisations are encouraged to conduct equipment requirement assessments during

programme design and monitoring and to maintain an agile and initiative approach to
developing new equipment types and uses. This approach to continual development will
increase efficiency, effectiveness and safety during IEDD operations and should be shared
across the sector to enable collective best practice.

B. 1. Standard IEDD Equipment Considerations

Item Remarks
Hook and Line Kits Low stretch / high tensile strength pulling ropes on reels
Karabiners
Pulleys
Stakes
Forceps
Prusik loops
Pitons
Slings and cord
Firing Cable 200m
Exploder
Continuity tester
Detonator Safety Tin
Scalpel
J Knife
Operator Marking
Handheld Detector
Binoculars
Hand tools Hammer, pillars, knife, etc.
Excavation tools
Barrel disruptor and
ammunition
Appropriate PPE
Electrical Detonators
High Explosives
Detonating Cord

B. 2. Additional Equipment Considerations

Item Remarks
X-Ray This may be held for specific applications at programme level.
ROV Providing a remote option for IEDD can be extremely beneficial.
Consideration must be given to the operational environment and
the utility of ROVs especially for buried IEDs.
UAV
Fibre Scope For observing inside concealed items.
Heavy Hook and Line For pulling multiple or large single items.

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Improvised VBIED
extractor / disruptor
Shaped Charge
Bottle Charges
Pyrotechnic Torches
and/or thermite
Short wire detectors
Optical Scope

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Annex C
(Informative)
Working Practices and Management Oversight
Working Practices. The following list of working practices is intended as generally informative
and not prescriptive. NMAA and MA organisations should assess their inclusion in SOPs and
training based on programme and regional specific considerations:

• Destruction in-situ. Destruction in-situ using a suitable explosive donor charge, either
bulk or shaped charge, should be considered as the preferred means of disposal. The
IED’s main charge(s) should be the only component(s) that are attacked using this
method26.
• Single wire attack. When dealing with electrically initiated devices, especially when
buried, an IEDD operator should consider introducing an element of safety into the
circuit by remotely or semi-remotely cutting a single electrical wire when one is
presented during fingertip search / execution. Care should be taken at this stage to
avoid creating an additional open switch (short), which could have safety implications.
• Avoidance of firing switches. Interaction with firing switch(es) significantly increases
the possibility of an unintentional detonation. When planning an RSP, an assessment
should be made of the probable means of initiation and the location of the associated
firing switch(es), enabling IEDD operators to avoid switches where possible.
• Operator search. Where the presence of a victim operated IED cannot be discounted
an appropriate combination of detector assisted search and/or visual inspection
(including tripwire feeler and optical aids), should be adopted.
• Multiple components. The potential presence of additional power sources/main
charges should be considered when planning an RSP.
• Detonator safety. Detonator safety should be conducted as early as possible during a
RSP.
• Lack of energetics/explosives. If energetic material for disruption is not available or
permitted, then semi-remote component separation techniques should be used.
Instructional guides and TNMA provide further direction.
• Safe working area. The area around a confirmed IED should be searched/cleared.
This area should be clearly marked and large enough to facilitate the RSP.
• Device make-up. In situations where an IED is buried it may be appropriate to expose
additional parts of the device as part of an RSP.
• 360o component confirmation. Extensive component confirmation can increase the
risk of initiating a device through unintended interaction with a secondary switch. This
should be a consideration when determining whether, and to what level, excavation of
buried components is conducted.
• Appropriate IEDD tools. During each approach, an IEDD operator should carry
suitable tools to deal with a range of scenarios.

Management Oversight and referrals. MA organisations should include a specific list of

referrals by an IEDD operator to an appropriate management authority in global and programme
SOPs. The following are examples that may be commonly included (the list is not exhaustive):

• If an IED is identified which exceeds the technical capabilities of the IED operator;
• A device incorporating multiple firing switches is identified;
• Prior to positive IEDD action on device deemed significant 27 based on programme
SOPs;
• An un-planned explosion occurs during the conduct of positive IEDD action;

26
This is to mitigate against creating shorts in electrical circuits that could inadvertent cause an un-controlled
detonation.
27
This could include sensor (PIRs etc).)) and radio controlled IEDs.

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• Identification of a new or novel device, whether for technical guidance or to ensure

immediate passage of critical information to other IEDD operators and clearance teams;
• Prior to conducting operations outside an approved task site, including IED spot tasks;
• If it is believed that deviation from any principle or mandatory action is required to
complete a task safely;
• If it is believed that there is a lack of training, equipment or capabilities to successfully
complete the task; and
• Any other organisational issues specified for immediate escalation.

In turn, the NMAAs must be informed by MA organisations should one of the following occur:

• A device is identified that falls outside the capabilities of the organisation;

• An unplanned explosion occurs during an IEDD task that results in injury or death;
• A new or novel device is encountered;
• A training gap is identified for the conduct of safe, effective and reliable IEDD
operations; and
• A new procedure or IEDD technique is developed to improve safety, effectiveness, and
efficiency.

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