Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)

What is unexploded ordnance?

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) refers to military munitions—such as bombs, rockets, grenades, and naval mines—that were deployed but failed to detonate as intended. These remnants of past conflicts pose ongoing threats to construction, marine excavation, and dredging operations, especially in regions heavily impacted by historical warfare.

UXO is particularly hazardous because:

• The detonation mechanisms may still be active.
• Corrosion can make ordnance unstable, increasing the risk of accidental explosions.
• Even minor disturbances, such as dredging or excavation, can trigger detonation.

To mitigate these risks, UXO detection and clearance must be an integral part of any dredging project, especially in historically affected areas.

Unexploded Ordnance removal

The removal of UXO is a complex and highly specialized process that requires advanced equipment, trained personnel, and strict safety protocols. UXO removal typically follows these key steps:

• Historical research & Risk assessment: Conducting in-depth research to identify high-risk areas based on past military activity.
• Detection & identification: Using our high-tech sonar, magnetometers, and scanning tools to locate and classify UXO.
• Safe excavation & disposal: Extracting ordnance with specialized dredging and suction equipment, followed by controlled detonation or disposal by Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts.

Unexploded ordnance risk assessment

Before any dredging or excavation project begins, a thorough risk assessment is necessary to evaluate the likelihood of encountering UXO. This involves:

• Surveying the project area using historical records, maps, and expert analysis.
• Performing on-site detection with our specialized scanning equipment that is capable of identifying metallic anomalies beneath the surface.
• Categorizing threats based on UXO type, condition, and potential danger level.

A well-executed risk assessment minimizes delays, reduces costs, and—most importantly—prevents accidents that could endanger personnel and equipment.

Unexploded Explosive Ordnance equipment and service

At Bell Dredging Pumps, we provide specialized dredging solutions for UXO detection and removal. Our sand pump technology is uniquely designed to:

• Remove sediment while simultaneously scanning for metal objects.
• Extract UXO safely without triggering accidental detonation.
• Operate in challenging underwater environments, including war zones and former military sites.

Key equipment for UXO Removal:

• Sea Auk: Our newest innovative UXO removal tool, developed in close collaboration with Fugro, offering advanced scanning and safe UXO extraction capabilities.
• Dredging Pumps: High-power suction pumps capable of removing large volumes of sediment while preserving potential UXO for safe extraction.
• Sand Pumps: Essential for clearing sand layers and exposing UXO for identification.
• Magnetometer Integration: Advanced scanning technology embedded in dredging equipment for real-time UXO detection.
• Remote-Controlled Dredgers: Allowing safe operation in high-risk areas without endangering personnel.