UXO risk mitigation

UXO risk mitigation is the process of identifying and mitigating potential hazards associated with unexploded ordnance on a project site. The primary goal is to reduce the risk posed by UXO to as low as reasonably practicable. This is achieved through a combination of comprehensive research, risk assessments, surveys, and clearance operations. By understanding and addressing the risks associated with UXO, project developers can ensure the safety of personnel, equipment, and the environment, while also maintaining project timelines and budgets.

The UXO risk assessment process involves a series of steps designed to identify and mitigate potential UXO hazards. This structured approach ensures that all potential risks are thoroughly evaluated and addressed.

A preliminary UXO risk assessment is the first step in the UXO risk assessment process. This initial assessment involves a review of local and national archives, historical records, and other available data to determine the likelihood of UXO presence on the project site. Factors such as the type of project, its location, and the potential risks associated with UXO are considered. By leveraging information from local and national archives, this assessment provides a foundational understanding of the UXO risk.

Building on the preliminary assessment, a detailed UXO risk assessment offers a more comprehensive evaluation. This involves an in-depth review of all available data, including historical records, bomb census mapping, and other relevant information. The detailed assessment identifies specific mitigation measures to reduce the risks associated with UXO. By thoroughly analysing the data, this assessment ensures that all potential hazards are accounted for and addressed, providing a robust framework for UXO risk mitigation.

Non-intrusive UXO surveys are a critical component of the UXO risk mitigation process. These surveys use specialised equipment to detect UXO without physically disturbing the soil or seabed, making them ideal for sensitive environments where minimising disruption is essential.

We employ advanced geophysical techniques, including high-resolution magnetometers and electromagnetic sensors, to accurately detect and classify UXO while reducing false positives. Their innovative data acquisition methods ensure precise target identification, limiting the need for intrusive investigation and unnecessary dredging. These surveys can be conducted in both terrestrial and marine environments, supporting infrastructure development, offshore energy projects, and environmental protection initiatives.

Our remote operations and data-driven approach provide significant advantages, including:

• Reduced Risk of UXO Detonation: By avoiding physical disturbance, the risk of accidental detonation is minimised, ensuring safer project execution.

• Minimised Environmental Impact: Non-intrusive methods help preserve the integrity of marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

• Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Our high-resolution data processing and advanced analytics reduce false positives, leading to fewer unnecessary excavations and lower overall costs.

• Improved Safety for Personnel and Equipment: The integration of remote operations centres further reduces health, safety, and environmental exposure by minimising the need for personnel in high-risk areas.

Our non-intrusive UXO surveys provide a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible solution for detecting and mitigating UXO risks. The cutting-edge technology we use enable clients to proceed with confidence in UXO-affected areas while ensuring compliance with industry best practices.

The duration of a UXO survey can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the project site, the level of UXO contamination, and the specific survey methods employed. On average, a preliminary UXO risk assessment might take a few days to a week, while a detailed UXO risk assessment could extend over several weeks. Non-intrusive UXO surveys, which rely on advanced geophysical techniques, can be conducted relatively quickly, often within a few weeks, depending on the project's scope and environmental conditions. Ultimately, the timeline for a UXO survey is determined by the need to ensure thoroughness and accuracy in identifying and mitigating potential risks associated with UXO.

UXO in offshore environments refers to UXO that may be present on or beneath the seabed, posing potential hazards to marine construction, offshore energy projects, and subsea infrastructure. These ordnances, often remnants of past military activities or conflicts, can include bombs, shells, and mines.

We specialise in comprehensive UXO risk mitigation through advanced geophysical surveys, high-resolution data acquisition, and remote operations. Our non-intrusive detection techniques, such as high-resolution magnetometers and electromagnetic sensors, allow for precise target identification while minimising environmental impact. We also offer target investigation, risk assessments, and clearance operations, ensuring offshore projects can proceed safely and efficiently while complying with industry regulations and best practices.