Press Releases

1. The Japan Disaster Relief Rescue Team underwent INSARAG External Re-Classification (IER) process from March 2 to 5, and it was awarded “Heavy” classification, which is the best of ratings following the previous award of “Heavy” classification in 2010. IER is, an UN external classification process to evaluate the operational capability and capacity of Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams.

2. The JDR Relief Team, comprised of seventy members from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Police Agency, Fire and Disaster Management Agency, Japan Coast Guard, JICA and registered medical and structural assessment experts by JICA underwent the observation through scenario-based exercise during non-stop approximately 40 hours. This exercise was held at the Hyogo Prefectural Emergency Management and Training Center.

3. IER aims for standardization of the organization and capacity of USAR teams and for efficient coordination of USAR teams deploying in the disaster-affected areas according to their classification. “Heavy” classification of the JDR Rescue Team will further promote their disaster relief activities.