What is a Preliminary UXO Risk Assessment and Why is it Important?

A preliminary assessment is the first step in safeguarding your construction or development projects against the hazards of unexploded devices and in making sure your due diligence adheres to UK safety guidelines.

Unexploded ordnance refers to unexploded or failed munitions e.g.bombs , shells from past conflicts that remain undiscovered, usually below ground, posing significant and potentially life -threatening risks to construction or development sites. Given the UK's wartime history, particularly in areas affected by enemy bombing during World War II like London, Plymouth, Glasgow and various other places, UXO hazards are a real concern for developers today.

However, it must be remembered that the small investment in commissioning a PRA can help rule out most sites in the UK from needing any further measures to mitigate UXO risk, based on elementary historical research and a brief assessment of post-war land use.

Preliminary UXO Risk Assessments FAQs

  • This assessment evaluates the likelihood of unexploded ordnance being present on your site by analysing its historical and geographical context.

  • The timeline often depends on the complexity of the site. However, Artios Global ensures all assessments are delivered promptly to keep your project moving forward.

  • Given the UK’s wartime history, areas of concentrated bombing or military activity pose significant UXO risks, especially in urban or coastal areas.

  • If ordnance is detected, we will organise further surveys, clearance work, and risk management to resolve the issue promptly.

  • With a track record of delivering high-quality UXO solutions, Artios Global combines regulatory expertise, advanced technology, and a client-focused approach to provide seamless service for UK businesses.

Superior turnaround time of 4-5 days compared to an average of 10-14 days.

Unbiased approach to recommendations.

Highly competitive pricing.

UXO risk management tools are efficient and effective.

Experts in UK safety standards.

Superior turnaround time of 4-5 days compared to an average of 10-14 days. Unbiased approach to recommendations. Highly competitive pricing. UXO risk management tools are efficient and effective. Experts in UK safety standards.

Use Cases of Preliminary UXO Risk Assessments

A preliminary UXO risk assessment is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is specifically tailored to the needs of industries and projects where safety, compliance, and risk mitigation are paramount. Below are key industries and project types that rely on UXO audits, along with detailed insights into how these assessments support their operations.

Urban Construction and Redevelopment

Urban construction often involves disturbing land that has been in use for decades, sometimes centuries. Throughout the UK, many cities were heavily targeted during World War II, resulting in unexploded ordnance buried beneath the surface.

Example Scenario

A developer planning the construction of a multi-story building in central London starts excavation without a UXO assessment. Unexpectedly encountering a buried explosive device causes significant delays, increased costs, and endangers workers’ lives.

Identifies historical wartime records for the planned site, pinpointing areas where UXO is likely.

  • Ensures any risks are addressed before groundwork begins, safeguarding construction schedules and budgets.

  • Protects workers, nearby residents, and infrastructure from potential harm caused by accidental UXO detonation.

  • This precaution is essential for protecting the lives of personnel, ensuring regulatory compliance, and streamlining project timelines.

How a UXO Risk Assessment Helps:

Infrastructure Expansion

Critical UK infrastructure, such as railways, roads, pipelines, and utilities, is frequently subject to upgrades, expansions, or new developments. However, many of these projects take place in greenfield or brownfield sites with potential UXO risks.

Example Scenario

While expanding a rural railway line, workers encounter an old military shell buried alongside the track. The discovery halts progress, forcing an evacuation and delaying the project for weeks.

  • Pre-assesses the area for UXO contamination before construction begins, using topographical data and historic site research.

  • Reduces the likelihood of unexpected delays by planning clearance work if necessary.

  • Enhances safety for workers and the public, ensuring compliance with strict UK safety laws like the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

How a UXO Risk Assessment Helps:

For large-scale infrastructure projects, a proactive UXO assessment can be the difference between meeting deadlines and facing significant setbacks.

Next Steps After a Preliminary UXO Risk Assessment

If significant risks are flagged during this initial assessment, Artios Global guides you through the next steps, such as an Detailed UXO Risk Assessment and mitigation planning, on-site survey, and UXO clearance.

Our goal is to ensure a safe and compliant project environment while keeping disruptions to a minimum.

The Risks of Skipping Preliminary UXO Audits

There are a plethora of hoops to jump through in development projects but UXO Risk Assessment is an unmissable tick on the to-do list for any constructor. Failing to conduct a Preliminary UXO Risk Assessment can have significant consequences, including lengthy project delays, hefty legal fines, injury or even loss of life. 

Missed hazards can also lead to unplanned expenses for emergency clearance work or potential reputational damage to your business. Investing in a preliminary risk assessment ensures you mitigate these issues before they become costly problems and before they become public.

By addressing risks early with Artios Global, you can move forward with confidence, knowing potential dangers are documented and managed.

UK Regulatory and Safety Compliance Standards

At Artios Global, we understand the importance of adhering to regulatory standards crucial to UK businesses. Adhering to safety regulations is a non-negotiable requirement for Artios.

A preliminary UXO risk assessment is not just a safety measure—it’s often a legal requirement to ensure compliance. We align our processes with key UK standards, such as:

CIRIA C681: A guide for the construction industry

  • The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) – Ensuring risks such as UXO are addressed in the planning phase.

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Supporting your obligation to identify and manage workplace safety risks.

  • Environmental Protection Laws – Preventing further contamination from disturbed UXO.

Trusted Partners for Preliminary UXO Risk Management

When it comes to protecting your business from UXO dangers, experience and expertise matter. At Artios Global, we provide UK businesses with industry-leading preliminary UXO Risk Management services that prioritise safety, efficiency and compliance.

Don’t leave it to chance—contact Artios Global today to safeguard your project and ensure it runs with confidence.

Enquire now for a quick, thorough and cost effective UXO risk management. 

Benefit from one of the UK’s leading providers of UXO risk management.

Help us understand your specific requirements by filling in the form. Alternatively you can call 03301333661 or email us at uxo@artiosglobal.com.

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