Humanitarian demining in Ukraine: how to become a legal operator and ensure safety

Mine contamination remains one of the most serious threats in Ukraine. Both military personnel and civilians face daily risks, while mined roads, residential areas, and infrastructure sites slow down recovery and the return to normal life. Humanitarian demining is not just a technical process; it is the foundation of safety and community rebuilding.

However, such work can only be performed by certified operators, since even one mistake in this field can cost lives. That is why the law strictly regulates activities in mine action, setting clear requirements for organizations, procedures, and staff qualifications, all of which must be understood from the very beginning. 

For more than three years, our team has been helping businesses and international organizations obtain permits in the security field, including guiding them through the certification process for humanitarian demining operators. We know all the details, from formal requirements to subtle issues that often cause certification delays or refusals.

In this article we explain who can become a legal humanitarian demining operator, what legal requirements apply to personnel and organizations, and how to complete certification smoothly and without bureaucratic obstacles.

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Who can legally conduct humanitarian demining

In Ukraine, only state centers and military units with accreditation have the right to carry out certification. Without a certificate, operators cannot legally perform demining work.

The entities involved in mine action include:

• The National Mine Action Authority

• Mine Action and Humanitarian Demining Centers

• Mine Action Operators who are the direct executors of the work and hold a certificate of compliance

Mine Action Operators are those who carry out demining safely, professionally, and in accordance with state standards, ensuring the minimization of risks for people and infrastructure.

Who can obtain certification

The category of humanitarian demining operators includes:

1. Legal entities registered in Ukraine
   These are companies, institutions, and organizations with the necessary resources, equipment, and qualified personnel. They must comply with safety standards, technical regulations, and staffing requirements.
   

2. International and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
   These are organizations with proven experience that apply international practices and technologies to improve the effectiveness of humanitarian demining.

Restrictions for operators:

• companies registered in offshore zones;

• legal entities from countries under sanctions;

• organizations from aggressor or occupying states.

These rules ensure transparency, safety, and proper oversight in the field of humanitarian demining.

The importance of professional personnel

Work safety depends not only on the equipment but also on the people who operate it. The qualification, experience, and discipline of the staff are key factors for success.

Minimum personnel requirements include:

• Sappers - at least five certified specialists capable of ensuring work safety and evacuation in case of emergencies.

• Paramedic of the rescue unit - provides medical assistance in emergency situations.

• Document control officer -maintains internal reports and records in accordance with legal requirements.

• Occupational safety engineer - monitors compliance with safety regulations and implements preventive measures.

• Quality engineer - conducts audits and verifies the correctness and safety of the work performed, ensuring compliance with standards.

Meeting these requirements is a mandatory condition for certification and safe operation.

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How to prepare for certification

The certification process often causes stress because it involves inspections, bureaucracy, oversight bodies, and strict staffing requirements, all under tight deadlines. Incorrectly prepared documents or failure to meet standards can delay the issuance of a permit for months.

Our lawyers help mine action operators successfully complete certification by:

• providing advice on legal requirements;

• reviewing staff qualifications and documentation for compliance with standards;

• preparing the full package of documents for submission to the certification authority;

• accompanying the entire certification process;

• establishing communication with mine action centers and supervisory bodies.

The result: a fast and safe certification process with guaranteed compliance with all safety and quality standards.

Ready to begin legal humanitarian demining operations in Ukraine? Contact LegalService to receive expert consultation and full legal support throughout the process.