VIENTIANE: Lane Xang Minerals Limited Company (LXML), in collaboration with the National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector in Laos (NRA), has awarded certificates to 20 newly trained Level 1 Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) clearance technicians, strengthening both operational safety and local workforce capacity in one of Laos’ most UXO-affected areas.
The certification ceremony took place on February 27 at the Sepon Mine and was chaired by the Head of the NRA Office, Bounpheng Sisavath, and co-chaired by LXML Deputy General Manager – Operations, Michael Stott. Representatives from technical teams and relevant stakeholders also attended the event.
The newly certified technicians successfully completed an intensive 10-day training programme that began on February 17.
Jointly delivered by specialists from the NRA and LXML, the course upgraded local employees from Cutter roles to qualified Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Operators. The initiative contributes to sustainable income generation and supports improved livelihoods in Vilabouly district.
Bounpheng highlighted the ongoing risks posed by the explosive remnants of war in Laos and stressed the importance of creating a highly competent workforce to ensure safe production areas.
Stott congratulated the graduates and reaffirmed LXML’s long-standing commitment to safety:
“Safety has been at the core of LXML’s operations in Laos since 2003. The Sepon Mine has contributed more than US$1.9 billion to the national budget through taxes, royalties, and dividends. Beyond these direct contributions, we are proud to generate employment, deliver training programmes, support local enterprises, and invest in community development. None of this progress would be possible without maintaining a safe working environment, particularly in areas affected by UXO.”
LXML remains a regional leader in UXO management, having invested over US$56 million in clearance and destruction activities. To date, more than 60,000 UXO items have been safely destroyed, releasing over 7,000 hectares of land for safe use.
The company has also introduced advanced detection technologies capable of identifying ordnance buried deeper than three metres, alongside innovative and nationally recognised detonation techniques.
The strong partnership between LXML, the NRA, and the Ministry of National Defence stands as a model of effective public-private cooperation.
The certification of this new cohort of technicians further reinforces field clearance capacity and underscores LXML’s commitment to international safety standards, sustainable operations, and the creation of a safer environment for the Lao people. - Vientiane Times/ANN
