Explosive Ordnance Disposal
Unexploded Ordnances, also known as UXOs, are found throughout Cambodia daily. They can resurface near villages, roads, or schools. When this happens, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team is called in to disarm and dispose of the device.
Picture right are UXOs unearthed at the field in the Siem Reap Province of Cambodia. UXOs just like these are typically what cause severe or fatal injuries because, unlike land mines, many people believe that they can disarm without the help of an EOD expert.
The Cambodian Self Help Demining Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team is comprised of 6 highly skilled individuals who have undergone extensive training and testing. The work closely with the Mine Action Planning Unit (MAPU) in Cambodia, local police, village chiefs, and village communes.
How does it work?
When a landmine or ordnance is found, the CSHD EOD Team receives a phone call either directly from those who found it, or from the local authorities. The team will then plan when to go out to check the area. The team receives many calls from different areas during the day, and they plan ahead of time where to go. Once out, the team determines if the reported item is safe to move. If it is safe to move, it is relocated to a safe area and destroyed; if it is not safe to move, it is destroyed in place. The team will typically conduct Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) after the item is destroyed and will leave the direct contact phone number to the village.