Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) - Useful Resources
International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG)
INSARAG is a global network of more than 80 countries and disaster response organisations under the United Nations umbrella. INSARAG deals with Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) related issues.
INSARAG aims at establishing standards for international USAR teams and methodology for international coordination in earthquake response. Members of INSARAG are both earthquake-prone and responding countries and organisations. INSARAG also manages the formal accreditation of internationally deployable USAR teams through the ‘INSARAG External Classification (IEC)’ process. Australia currently has one internationally accredited taskforce, located in Queensland.
USAR Australian Emergency Manual series (USAR AEMs)
USAR Australian Emergency Manual series, Part III Emergency Management Practice, Volume 2 Specific Issues. Capability Guidelines for Structural Collapse Response. Please note: This Manual is currently under review.
Emergency Management Australia (EMA) Library
The EMA library is a national resource which, through its collection and various services, promotes and supports the Australian emergency management community. This includes course participants, researchers, government departments and where possible, members of tertiary institutions and the general public.
EMA Disasters Database
The EMA Disasters Database contains records of all natural and non-natural disasters within Australia (where information is available) dating from 1662 to present day. To view disaster information, please select one of the browse options below. As the database is currently undergoing modification, some of the advanced search functions are not currently available.
EMA Extranet
The EMA Extranet is a secure website containing information and resources specifically for USAR organisations and emergency management agencies. If you are not a current member or have forgotten your logon details, please contact USAR@ema.gov.au.