The constraints caused by the pandemic have compelled the entire working world to identify new ways of working. At GCS, our staff are well accustomed to finding solutions in difficult circumstances. Yet, the pandemic has presented us with a new set of challenges. We have learned that in order to successfully navigate these times, we must incorporate even greater levels of flexibility, adaptability and resourcefulness into our operations in order to keep delivering client solutions to the highest quality standards.
On a recent client visit in South Sudan, our field engineer Hassan found himself in one of these situations. Hassan travelled from Lebanon to conduct an inspection of the MW240 and MW330 machines for the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in South Sudan. Upon arrival it was required by the authorities that he spend two weeks in quarantine.
Finding solutions together
Keen to find practical solutions and not to lose time on the maintenance of the machines, Hassan and UNMAS collaborated on how they could best overcome the challenges presented by the restrictions. Both parties identified that, given the nature of the inspection work, Hassan did not need to be at the client site and could work on the machines in isolation. By utilising the grounds of the compound where he was staying as the base for his work, UNMAS could transport the workshop container and both machines to his location safely, while at the same time adhering to the regulations of the authorities.
“We are well used to navigating diverse regulations in many different regions around the world, but the unpredictability of the current situation requires even greater levels of adaptability,” says Fabian Klauser, Head of Services. “It is imperative that we stay flexible and that together with our clients, we proactively seek solutions in order to continue with the vital work of removing the deadly threat of unexploded landmines and IEDs in communities.”
Hassan spent a productive four weeks inspecting and servicing both the MW240 and MW330 machines, ensuring that they met the standards required for efficient and safe operations as part of an integrated clearance capacity. The machines will conduct vegetation clearance, ground preparation and mine clearance roles, in particular for Battle Area Clearance and EOD tasks in hazardous areas across South Sudan.