Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) describes MAG's coordinated response in locating identifying, making secure and then safely removing and destroying dangerous remnants of conflict.
We do this in vast and small quantities to provide as immediate relief as possible for communities affected by their presence.
 |
|
MAG trains local labour in safe-handling and movement drills, placement of ordnance and excavation of demolition pits. |
Landmines are generally perceived as the greatest threat to conflict-affected communities, although other items such as grenades, mortars, shells, cluster munitions, small arms, light weapons and large air-dropped bombs can often be an equally immediate threat.
Stockpiles and caches
MAG has the expertise to deal with stockpiles and caches (which can also include landmines). Large concentrations of abandoned ordnance can be accessible to local populations - groups of people are known to gather around caches searching for metal, while others have no choice but to live near large stockpiles of potentially lethal weapons. If an explosion occurs the effects can be devastating and multiple fatalities and injuries are common. For these reasons the problem requires a rapid protection and clean-up response of the type MAG currently provides in many of our programmes.
EOD training
Where a large amount of stockpiled ordnance has been identified, MAG trains local labour in safe-handling and movement drills, placement of ordnance and excavation of demolition pits. Our technical experts are then able to concentrate on identifying the items, moving them safely, conducting bulk demolitions and other complex procedures. As part of the EOD process, Mine Risk Education and Community Liaison play a vital role in alerting MAG's EOD teams and offering advice to communities on what to do when faced with leftover stockpiles and caches.