• On-site Monitoring: Closely observing all ground-breaking activities (excavations, trial pits, piling, drilling, etc.), working alongside machine operators and ground personnel. They use visual techniques to identify any suspicious items that might indicate the presence of UXO.
  • Immediate Identification: Rapidly assessing any unearthed or detected suspicious objects to determine if they are UXO or a harmless item. This prevents unnecessary work stoppages and delays.
  • UXO Awareness Briefings: Providing "toolbox talks" or more in-depth training to all site personnel. This covers UXO recognition, potential risks, safety precautions, and emergency procedures in case of a discovery.
  • Implementing Control Measures: If a confirmed or suspected UXO is found, the specialist will immediately:
  • Stop all work in the affected area. ·
  • Notify the site manager. ·
  • Ensure the area is evacuated and a safe cordon is established.
  • Contact the relevant authorities (police, military EOD units).
  • Liaison with Authorities: Acting as the primary point of contact and liaison with police and military EOD teams if UXO is discovered, facilitating a swift and safe resolution.
  • Documentation: Maintaining records of all observations, findings, and actions taken on site.
  • Adherence to Standards: Ensuring all activities comply with industry standards and regulations, such as CIRIA C681 guidance and CDM Regulations 2015 (in the UK), which mandate protecting workers from hazards.
  • Site-Specific Advice: Providing ongoing advice to site staff on modifying working practices in relation to the ordnance risk, based on evolving site conditions and discoveries.

When is a UXO Watching Brief Required?

  • A preliminary UXO risk assessment identifies a medium to high risk of encountering UXO on a site.
  • Ground conditions are not suitable for comprehensive proactive surveys (like intrusive or non-intrusive surveys).
  • During specific types of ground-intrusive work such as deep excavations, piling, or boreholes.
  • In areas with a known history of military activity or significant wartime bombing.