In a concerning incident this afternoon, Solent Airport was temporarily closed after a “suspicious object” was found during construction work at the nearby Swordfish Business Park. The object, believed to resemble a pipe bomb, was discovered as part of the ongoing development of a new substation. In response, local authorities swiftly closed the airport and put surrounding roads under closure orders, urging the public to avoid the area while a thorough investigation took place.

The discovery prompted immediate action from both the police and an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team. The police confirmed they were in contact with EOD specialists who later arrived to assess the situation and ensure that the area was secure. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries, but the event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the UK.

The Pipe Bomb Discovery

Fareham Borough Council, which is overseeing the project, confirmed that the object found during construction appeared to resemble a pipe bomb, a type of improvised explosive device. While the authorities are still investigating the exact nature of the object, the incident has sparked concern over the risks posed by historic ordnance buried beneath the ground.

The discovery of a potential bomb on a construction site highlights the unpredictability of UXO risks. While construction workers and contractors follow best practices and safety protocols, the presence of unexploded ordnance is not always apparent until excavation or digging work disturbs the ground. This is why proper site assessments and risk management strategies are essential for ensuring safety and minimizing disruption to projects.

The Ongoing Threat of UXO in the UK

Each year, ground intrusion and construction projects across the UK encounter unexploded ordnance, from bombs and shells to grenades and landmines. It’s estimated that around 10% of munitions fail to detonate on impact, leaving dangerous remnants buried beneath the surface. As urban development continues to expand, and more sites are excavated, the likelihood of encountering UXO increases, especially in areas that have previously been the site of military operations.

UXO risk management is critical for all types of construction projects, from residential developments to industrial sites. Ensuring the safety of workers, contractors, and the public requires careful planning and the implementation of UXO mitigation measures. This includes thorough risk assessments, early identification of potential hazards, and appropriate action when UXO is discovered on site.

Assessing Your Site for UXO: The First Step in Risk Management

The first step in any UXO risk management plan is a comprehensive UXO risk assessment of the site in question. By identifying potential UXO hazards early in the planning stage, contractors and developers can minimise the risks and take the necessary steps to mitigate them.

At Brimstone UXO, we offer a fast, cost-effective service for Preliminary UXO Risk Assessments, with a 24 to 48-hour turnaround time. This assessment helps to discount UXO risks where they are minimal and provides essential information if further action is required. With our expert team of UXO engineers, we can help you navigate the complexities of UXO risk and ensure the safety of your project.

If your site is at risk of encountering UXO, our comprehensive risk management services can help you stay ahead of potential threats and avoid costly delays. Our UXO support includes everything from initial assessments and surveys to the safe clearance and disposal of any found ordnance.

How Brimstone UXO Can Help You Manage UXO Risks

To stay updated on the latest developments in UXO safety, industry trends, and Brimstone news, make sure to follow us on FacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedIn and YouTube.

For more information about our UXO risk mitigation services, or if you need support with your upcoming project, get in touch with our dedicated commercial team today. We’re here to help you ensure the safety and success of your projects, from start to finish.

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