IMPORTANT update - please read this
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 grossly 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.
This database of demining accidents is older than IMSMA. 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 "Accident reports". The only data excluded are the names of Victims, Demining agencies and the investigators involved. Although each record has a 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 my summary.
Accurate accident records should be kept in order to study them and learn how to avoid making the same mistake(s) in future. The fact that the most common causes of accidents recur repeatedly implies that lessons are not learned and that further study of accident data is needed. Some of the more obvious lessons that can be derived are apparent in the training section of this site.
Unfortunately, you cannot search the database because the database software is not yet on-line. It will be re-coded to allow on-line searches if there is enough support for it.
Click here to open a sample Accident report.
