Brimstone Bomb Disposal: Safely Tackling UXO
At Brimstone UXO, we specialise in unexploded ordnance (UXO) assessment, survey, investigation, and disposal, using the latest technology and proven techniques. But what happens when our services uncover a live or potentially hazardous item?
This is where Brimstone’s bomb disposal expertise comes into play. As a Ministry of Defence-approved UXO contractor, we have the capability to remove, transport, and safely dispose of UXO using both explosive and non-explosive methods. Whether on construction sites, coastal areas, or former military locations, our highly trained teams work efficiently to restore sites to safety and prevent project delays.
How UXO bomb disposal works
Explosive bomb disposal
While it may seem counterintuitive, sometimes the safest and most effective way to dispose of UXO is through a controlled detonation. This method neutralises the explosive threat entirely, preventing the risk of accidental detonation.
At Brimstone, we use:
- High-order electric firing systems to ensure precise and controlled detonations.
- Plastic explosives for effective destruction of UXO.
- Protective works and safety measures to shield people, property, and infrastructure during demolition.
Our team handles every aspect of the operation, from establishing safety perimeters to managing the demolition site. This ensures minimal disruption to nearby areas while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Licensed explosives handling
Brimstone UXO is one of the few companies in the UK licensed to purchase, store, and operate explosives in multiple counties. We maintain a secure explosives magazine to store demolition charges, allowing us to respond quickly to UXO incidents.
Thanks to this capability, we can deploy at short notice, conducting efficient demolitions with minimal delays. In one year alone, we destroyed more than 3,500 UXO items across 100+ explosive demolition operations.
Non-explosive UXO disposal
In some cases, an explosive detonation is not suitable due to the proximity of infrastructure, environmental concerns, or the nature of the UXO itself. In these situations, we use non-explosive methods to safely neutralise the threat.
These techniques include:
- Low-order disposal: Using thermal lances and specialised charges to cause the UXO to deflagrate (rapidly combust without detonating). This renders the ordnance inert while significantly reducing environmental impact.
- Demilitarisation and removal: Through our partners, we offer off-site UXO disposal using mobile demolition chambers. This allows us to safely extract UXO and transport it to secure facilities for end-of-life treatment, far from populated areas.
By using non-explosive techniques where possible, we help minimise noise, disruption, and environmental damage- making these methods ideal for projects near residential areas or protected land.
Real-world expertise: our bomb disposal projects
Staffordshire UXO clearance: large-scale demolitions
One of Brimstone’s most significant projects involved the clearance of over 3,500 UXO items from a construction site in Staffordshire.
Key highlights:
- 100+ controlled demolitions carried out safely and efficiently.
- Up to 200 UXO items destroyed in a single day.
- 80,000 cubic metres of ground processed to ensure complete safety.
- UXO types included grenades, rockets, fuses, and sea mines.
The project was completed without any safety incidents, and we provided the client with an As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) certificate, confirming the site was clear of UXO contamination. This enabled the client to continue their construction project with confidence.
RAF Cowden: UXO disposal on Mappleton Beach
Since 2020, Brimstone has led a four-year UXO disposal operation at Mappleton Beach near the former RAF Cowden air weapons range.
Covering 275 hectares of land, the beach is heavily contaminated due to over 2.5 million ammunition items being expended during the range’s operation. Our team conducts:
- Daily demolitions to remove UXO safely.
- Continuous monitoring to protect public beach users.
- Careful coordination with local authorities and emergency services.
This ongoing project demonstrates our ability to handle large-scale, long-term UXO disposal operations, ensuring public safety in complex environments.
Why choose Brimstone UXO for bomb disposal?
Ministry of Defence-approved contractor
Brimstone UXO is officially recognised by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) as a trusted UXO clearance and disposal provider. Our expert teams adhere to strict safety standards and operate with the highest level of professionalism.
Rapid response and nationwide coverage
With the ability to store and transport explosives across multiple counties, we offer fast, flexible deployment to sites across the UK. Our team is available for short-notice demolitions and emergency response operations.
Environmentally responsible practices
We prioritise environmental protection by using low-order and non-explosive disposal methods whenever feasible. This reduces noise, vibration, and potential damage to sensitive ecosystems.
Proven track record
From large-scale clearance projects to small-scale emergency demolitions, Brimstone UXO has a proven track record of safe and efficient UXO disposal. Our commitment to precision, safety, and professionalism ensures peace of mind for our clients.
Enquire with Brimstone UXO
If you require UXO assessment, surveying, investigation, or disposal services, contact Brimstone UXO today.
- Call us at 0207 117 2492 or visit our website to send us a message.
- Use our online tool to find the right service for your project.
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube to stay informed about UXO safety and industry updates.
"*" indicates required fields