Now issuing Independent Certificates of industry H&S excellence
Suggested training uses
and related accident reports
2011 update, from early 1990s - 2011 and including Records separated by year, since 2005
Data gathering post 2011
Most databases contain summaries of data that has either been simplified or manipulated (or both). In my experience, the worst data is recorded as a tick-box summary made by a clerk who does not understand the material being summarised. In Humanitarian demining, the IMSMA accident records are an example of saving simplified and incomplete data for no apparent purpose other than to say that a record has been made. No one has ever been able to rely on IMSMA data to draw reliable and informed conclusions about accidents.
The Database of Demining Accidents is older and infinitely more detailed than the IMSMA accident records. Whenever possible, it contains the original accident reports, photographs, statements and documents related to each accident. This website gives you access to the complete records in separately compiled "Reports". The only data excluded are the names of Victims, Demining agencies and the investigators involved. Although each record has a search-summary at the start, these records include the original reports, (including errors and inconsistencies expressed in the investigator's own words) so that you do not have to rely on a summary. Each record ends with a brief "Analysis". This is intended to put the record in context and explain the "causes" that have been noted for the accident.
Accurate accident records should be kept in order to study them and learn how to avoid making the same mistakes in future. The fact that the most common causes of accidents recur repeatedly implies that lessons are not learned and that many demining professionals would gain from studying accident data. Some of the more obvious lessons that can be derived are apparent in the training section of this site.
Unfortunately, you cannot search this database for common features. Email me at avs(at)nolandmines.com if you have a search you want made, or any other questions. If you want the details of a particular accident, tell me what you know and I will try to find it for you.
Click here to open a sample Accident report.
