Overview

These international standards for humanitarian mine clearance operations are issued under the auspices of the United Nations and are effective upon receipt. Other standards, such as those issued by the host nation are to be complied with provided they match or exceed those set out in these documents, otherwise, these international standards will apply.

The standards provide a framework for the creation of Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs), which in turn detail the manner in which specific mine clearance operations are conducted.  The SOPs should take into account the cultural, environmental and operational variations between countries and, therefore, procedures should be amended accordingly.

Examples of SOPs and guideline documents are included to facilitate application. Standards will be regularly reviewed and updated by the United Nations.  The latest version of the standards can be obtained from the Mine Clearance Policy Unit, DHA, United Nations, New York, NY 10017, USA. Telephone (212) 963-4632; Fax (212) 963-1040 or E-mail cassidy(at)un.org. Comments and suggestions for improvement are welcome.