International Defence Procurement and LogisticsExplosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)Private military company (PMC)

International Defence Procurement & Logistics

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IDPL is a member of both The International Association For Counterterrorism & Security Professionals (IACSP : www.iacsp.com), and The American Society for Law Enforcement Training (ASLET : www.aslet.org).

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Q. What is the difference between UXO & UXB?

A. UXO is unexploded ordnance, such as grenades, bullets, artillery shells and mortars. UXB is an unexploded bomb.

Q. Can you detect a UXB from the surface?

A. Yes. Our simplest survey equipment can detect a suspect bomb at 6 metres, where as the more sophisticated equipment can detect to beyond 16 metres.

Q. What should I do if I don't believe the information the EOC Company is providing?

A. Ask them to prove their claim and, if necessary, get independent advice.

Q. What do we do if we find a suspicious object on site?

A. Stop all works, DO NOT DISTURB THE ITEM, evacuate to at least 200 metres, and get help.

Q. Have there ever been any accidents on site due to UXB's or UXO?

A. Yes, there are numerous incidents documented, but the most well known is probably in 1994 when a piling rig hit a UXB and killed three whilst injuring eight others.

Q. If our site is not in an area that was heavily bombed surely there is no risk from UXBs?

A. Your site could still have been hit as a result of a blanket bombing raid as were common in WW2, or you may be on an ex military training area.

Q. Can a bomb be found under a road or structure?

A. Yes, when a bomb hits the ground it can travel laterally.

Q. Why should I bother to address the UXB/UXO issue?

A. Because if you do nothing you could be putting your workforce and the general public at risk, your company may also incur expensive downtime penalties, and under certain health and safety legislation it could be illegal.

Q. Is there any legislation that forces me to address the UXB/UXO issue?

A. Yes, you are required to ensure your works are conducted in a safe manner under general HSE guide lines.

Q. What happens if during the survey you encounter an anomaly that has the characteristics of a UXB?

A. It will either be removed or in some rare instances it will be left if it does not pose a threat.

Q. Do bombs become more unstable the older they get?

A. In the main, they stay as stable as the day they were dropped, but still pose a threat if disturbed.

Q. Do I need you to conduct a desktop survey for every site?

A. No, only if you are unsure of the possible risk, but you should always conduct an abandoned bomb search.

Q. What is an abandoned bomb?

A. In the UK abandoned bombs are held on an official list held by the government.

Q. If a site has already been redeveloped surely there is no risk of a UXB or UXO?

A. That is not always true. If the site did not undergo a survey or the site excavations were not significantly deep enough around the bomb's position, the UXB will remain.

Q. Can you tell by your survey results if the anomaly you have found is actually a bomb?

A. Only to a certain extent. The survey will give sizes and mass, but bear in mind a buried gas bottle can give similar readings.

Q. If I accidently dig up UXO or a UXB what is likely to happen?

A. With a bit of luck, nothing, but most accidents occur when people get curious.

Q. What are the chances of piling and drilling causing a UXB to explode?

A. High. Always take precautions when undertaking these projects.

Q. Where in the UK are the greatest risks for UXO and UXBs posed?

A. Docklands, industrial areas, major cities, ex Ministry of Defence sites.

Q. Can a WW2 bomb explode without it being disturbed?

A. Unlikely.

Q. At what depth are you likely to find UXBs in the UK?

A. Mostly with the first 10 metres, but in soft ground, sand and also silt, it can be in excess of 20 metres.

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