Ukraine collaboration delivers vital training amid ongoing crisis

Amid Ukraine’s ongoing crisis, I led on a collaborative effort between the UK and Ukraine, delivering crucial training programmes in technical rescue and emergency response. Navigating the complexities of rebuilding resilience, here I offer insights into the impact of capacity-building initiatives amid adversity.

On 24 February, 2022, Russia’s invasion of eastern Ukraine triggered widespread displacement and Europe’s largest refugee crisis, exacerbating the country’s emergency. In response, I secured a contract with Frontier Operations during the summer of 2023 to lead a capacity-building project in the Ukraine.

Tasked with designing training programmes in urban search and rescue (USAR), water and flood rescue, safe working at height, hazardous materials response and trench rescue, I deployed to Ukraine in May 2023 to assess needs and prepare for implementation. By June, I commenced a three-month delivery phase, focusing on fire and technical rescue courses alongside instruction on INSARAG guidelines and management awareness.

Incidents ranging from targeted attacks on residential and industrial areas to critical infrastructure destruction highlighted the urgent need for specialised training and equipment. My needs assessment identified crucial areas for development, including USAR, hazmat awareness, INSARAG guidelines, water rescue and working at height.

The project’s delivery phase saw intensive training sessions, including two three-week USAR courses and a one-week water rescue introductory course. These programmes equipped participants with essential skills in technical searches, command and control and trench rescue, while emphasising the importance of INSARAG guidelines and coordination.

Additionally, working-at-height training and instruction on chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) response were provided, further enhancing Ukraine’s emergency response capabilities.

Post-training, I provided comprehensive recommendations to SESU and the Ukrainian government, outlining further needs for equipment, policy development and ongoing training. Looking ahead, plans for an Opora-2 project in 2024 aim to bolster USAR, water rescue and working-at-height capacities while advancing INSARAG capabilities nationwide.

Critical recommendations include acquiring specialised rescue equipment such as a Paratech metal shoring system and implementing INSARAG national accreditation processes to standardise response protocols. I also highlight the ongoing assessment of wildfire risks and the need for enhanced incident command and non-technical skills training.

To read similar articles, check out our Frontline channel.