Unexploded Ordnance

Overview

UXO is standard terminology in the UK, although in artillery, especially on practice ranges, an unexploded shell is referred to as a blind, and during the Blitz in World War II an unexploded bomb was referred to as a UXB.

Most current UXO risk is limited to areas, mainly in London and Portsmouth, that were subject to the Blitz and to land used by the military to store ammunition or to train on. According to the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA), from 2006 to 2009, over 15,000 items of ordnance were found in construction sites in the UK. Most notably, 1000 homes were evacuated in Plymouth in April 2009 when a Second World War bomb was discovered, and in June 2008 a 1 000 kg bomb was found in Bow in East London. CIRIA have now published "Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) - a guide for the construction industry" to provide advice on assessing the risk posed by UXO.

The burden of Explosive Ordnance Disposal in the UK is split between Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal Officers, Royal Logistics Corps Ammunition Technicians in the Army, Clearance Divers of the Royal Navy and the Armourers of the Royal Aire Force. The Metropolitan Police is the only force not to rely on the Ministry of Defence, although they generally focus on terrorist devices rather than unexploded ordnance and will often call military teams in to deal with larger and historical bombs.

What's in it for me?

Come along and meet like minded colleagues. Its an excellent opportunity to network and share concerns and ideas.

Who should attend?

All health and safety practitioners and consultants.

Speakers

Name Graham Cosham

What you need to know?

The meeting will be held on Friday 16th March 2012 in the HAODS room at the Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre Wickhurst Lane, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham West Sussex RH12 3YS from 12.30 for lunch, meeting proper starts at 1.00pm.