For every mine we dig out of the ground there is potentially one less person to be maimed. That makes it all worthwhile.

Demining is a laborious process where every step has its purpose. How a minefield is approached depends on the terrain and tools available. In many cases demining can only be carried out by manual demining, usually we clear two-metre wide access roads or lanes to, and dissecting the minefield which will provide safe access to deminers, enabling more deminers to be deployed at the necessary safe distances from each other. This will be followed a systematic clearance of one-metre wide lanes until the whole area ha been cleared.

When mine dogs can be deployed these two-metre wide lanes are cleared to form a  grid which carves the area into sections approximately 10 by 10 metres square. Doing this opens up the entire field, making it accessible to the mine dogs. We also have a greater chance of finding mine-infested pockets and then we deploy manual demining units depending on the actual area which contains the actual threat.

Back-up is always close by
With the starting line defined, administrative zones such as a resting area, parking for ambulances and other vehicles, storage for explosives, latrines, and demolition areas are established. Our trauma trained medics are typically stationed at the start line to narrow the gap between a possible accident and immediate treatment.

Mines are not intelligent
Actual demining and demolition of unexploded ordnance is a physically demanding and dangerous business. Safety is paramount with no compromises. We do not want to sacrifice one life to save another. For this reason we have rigorous guidelines for every procedure. Safety has the highest priority. Even though demining is dangerous, the mines themselves are "dumb" objects that will not maim or kill unless a mistake is made. We aim to eliminate such mistakes, and we strive for a culture of safety that supports our procedures and ensures complete concentration.

Comprehensive cover
Lapses in concentration can happen and can lead to blunders. Consequently our demining personnel are well insured, so they and their families are immediately compensated should an accident occur.

Total clearance is the objective
A humanitarian demining programme has as its primary goal the 100% removal of all mines and unexploded ordnance.

On the right is a link for a soundslide on Explosive Ordnance Disposal in Uganda.