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E-learning Course on Practice of Deactivating Small Arms and Light Weapons

Overview of the Course

The E-learning Course on Practice of Deactivating Small Arms and Light Weapons provides comprehensive training on the standards, frameworks, and practical procedures for the deactivation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW). It is based on the standards and practices followed by the Banc National d’Epreuve in Saint-Etienne (BNE), a Proof House based in France, and offers an in-depth overview of the tools and equipment required to carry out firearm deactivation safely, effectively, and in strict compliance with European Union (EU) regulations.

A dedicated section on the tools required for deactivation workshops, supported by visuals, ensures a clear and professional understanding of the process. Enhanced with interactive elements and visual aids, the e-learning course equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively meet deactivation standards.

Course level: Recommended for participants with basic and in-depth knowledge

Methodology: Online Self-paced Course

Registration: Public Self-enrolment

Participants interested in international standards and normative frameworks for the SALW deactivation may also enroll in the E-learning Course on Theory of Deactivating Small Arms and Light Weapons . Further information and enrollment details are available here.

Course curriculum

E-learning Course on Practice of Deactivating Small Arms and Light Weapons

Consists of 5 modules:

  1. Overview of required Tools and their Use for Deactivation
  2. Deactivation of a Revolver with an Inner Firing Pin Compliant with EU Regulation 2018/337
  3. Deactivation of a Pistols (single shot, semi-automatic) Compliant with EU Regulation 2018/337
  4. Deactivation of an AK47 Kalashnikov (Assault Rifle) Compliant with EU Regulation 2018/337
  5. Deactivation of a Single Shot Long Firearm Mauser K98 Compliant with EU Regulation 2018/337

Target Audience:

  • Practitioners from the Ministry of Interior (Police Department – Criminal Investigators, Forensic Investigators, Analysts)
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Security and Arms Control Divisions)
  • Ministry of Economy (Customs Administration, Arms Control Export, Import, and Transit Licensing Departments)
  • Arms Control Officers
  • Other entities involved in the deactivation process

SALW Deactivation E-Learning Course Outcomes

By completing the E-learning Course on Practice of Deactivating Small Arms and Light Weapons , participants will:

  • Learn to apply international and regional deactivation standards, ensuring compliance with EU Regulation and related frameworks.
  • Develop practical knowledge of firearm deactivation processes for various weapon types and the tools required for effective deactivation.
  • Acquire skills in inspection, verification, certification, and record-keeping to uphold professional and regulatory standards in SALW deactivation.

Language and Technical Requirements

Language: The course is available in English language

Hardware: Computer or mobile device equipped with audio capabilities and a reliable internet connection.

Materials: Digital handbooks and guides may be downloadable from the course platform .

Assessments and Certification

Participants who successfully complete the training course will be awarded a Certificate of Completion. For official certification of deactivators or verifiers please contact your local SALW Control Commission or OSCE.

Continuous Online Assessments: Multiple-choice quizzes after each module. Participants should score 50% or more in total to receive the certificate.

Certification: Digital certificates issued to participants who successfully complete the course and pass the continuous assessments.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us:

CONFLICT PREVENTION CENTRE / FSC SUPPORT UNIT
OFFICE: +43 1 514 36 6262
https://www.osce.org/forum-for-security-cooperation

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will this course take?

This courses is entirely self-paced, meaning that you can log in to the OSCE E-Learning platform at any time and progress at your own speed to complete modules in no particular order.

Why is this course free?

All courses available on the OSCE E-Learning platform are free. We extend our gratitude and thank our organizational donors in European Union, France, Germany, Slovakia, Spain, Norway, Poland, and Switzerland for their contributions that supported the development of this knowledge product.

What language the course is available in?

The course is available in English language.

Can I receive the certificate?

Yes, after completion of the course and if you pass the certificate assessment - you will receive an official OSCE and BNE certificate of achievement (a "Certificate").

How does the Certificate assessment work?

There will be questions at the end of each module covering all topics of the module. You should score 50% or more in total to get the certificate. Please note:

  • You will get only one attempt per question;
  • Except for Correct/Incorrect - no further feedback is provided.

Can I learn using my mobile phone?

Yes. The Open edX platform works on desktop and mobile devices with current versions of Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Safari. See our list of supported browsers for the most up-to-date information.

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