What is a primary function of EOD units in humanitarian missions?

In humanitarian missions, the primary function of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units is to clear explosive hazards for safe access. This is crucial in post-conflict or disaster-stricken areas where unexploded ordnance (UXO) and landmines pose significant risks to civilians. EOD units identify, render safe, and dispose of these explosives, allowing for safe travel, the reopening of necessary infrastructure, and the resumption of daily life for affected populations.

While conducting training for military personnel can be an aspect of EOD operations, it is not their primary function in humanitarian contexts, where the immediate goal is to ensure safety for civilians. Developing new explosive devices does not align with the mission of EOD units in humanitarian efforts, as their role is about safely managing existing threats rather than creating new ones. Surveillance of enemy positions typically falls under intelligence-gathering missions, which is outside the primary responsibilities of EOD units in a humanitarian framework. Thus, the focus of EOD in this context squarely rests on removing threats to civilian safety, highlighting the significance of their role in humanitarian missions.