The International Mines Rescue Body (IMRB) was formed during a meeting of mine rescue organizations in Ustron-Jaszowiec, Poland, in May 2001. The participating bodies recognized the value of sharing information about their organizations, methods of training, rescue techniques and equipment. The original signatory nations were:

• Czech Republic
• France
• United States
• Romania
• Slovakia
• South Africa
• Australia
• United Kingdom
• Poland