China search and rescue team seeks to regain 'Heavy Team' status

The China International Search & Rescue Team will begin a three-day peer review process on Aug 26 in Beijing, as the group aims to reclaim its expired mantle of "Heavy Team".

The International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, under the leadership of the UN, developed the external classification since 2005 in international search and rescue teams to make the rescue activities more effective.

According to their operational capabilities, 39 international rescue teams are classified as Medium Teams or Heavy Teams through the review process, showing their capabilities in rescue responses accordingly.

The China International Search & Rescue Team will take about 150 subjects involving with teams management, security, search and rescue, and medical treatment.

The Chinese team, with about 480 staff members, passed the procedures in 2009, becoming the second Heavy Team in Asia and has participated in 12 international rescue activities, including rescue operations, after the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan in 2011.