Why is the survey so important?

Surveys provide information about the socio-economic impact of mines and UXO. Determining the impact of mines and UXO on a community requires a clear understanding of community needs and individual requirements for basic survival.

Surveys generate the information required to effectively manage a mine action program. Surveys help mine action programs to:

• Assess the situation
• Mobilize and prioritize resources
• Acquire data
• Manage information
• Develop training programs
• Produce management structures
• Procure and employ appropriate and safe equipment
• Develop strategic and operational action plans
• Measure and evaluate performance

What kind of surveys are conducted?

A community interview in the Al-Nadera district of Yemen helps deminers locate possible minefields.

The Impact Survey, the Technical Survey and the Post-clearance Survey are three types of surveys based on the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS).

The Impact Survey ensures that resources are allocated where they will do the most good. It is used to develop strategic national plans and priorities based on economic and social requirements, to set program size, and to establish a baseline for performance and to review progress. Culturally sensitive survey teams visit all mine-affected communities to assess the extent and type of impact, record general minefield area locations with sketch maps and photos, and collect basic demographic and economic data. Rigorous safety and quality control measures are in effect and the UN certifies results.

The Technical Survey ensures that clearance assets are allocated where they will be the most efficient. More specifically, the Technical Survey is used to reduce immediate hazards by marking the boundaries of known mined areas and to provide information needed to select the most appropriate priority and method for clearance. Skilled deminers, using metal detectors and mine dogs and/or mechanical devices, mark the perimeter of a minefield, firmly establish the types of mines present and estimate the degree of clearance difficulty.

The Post-clearance Survey is used to establish that the land has been properly cleared and is safe to turn over to local populations. This step is critical to ensure the full use of cleared land. Demining teams, upon completing clearance, will conduct a postclearance inspection of the site, take corrective action, if required, and emplace permanent survey markers for future reference.

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