Why UXO Overwatch
UXO Overwatch supports sites where a UXO risk has been identified, including where residual risk remains but an on-site UXO presence is impractical or unnecessary. It is particularly suited to excavations in brownfield or heavily contaminated ground, where surveys or watching briefs may not be feasible because of site constraints or the construction risks they would add.
Putting extra people and plant on site to manage one hazard can add to another. Overwatch manages the UXO risk without adding to the construction risk, and excavation can carry on under Overwatch once the crew have watched the UXO safety briefing.
More than just an on-call service
Every Overwatch is built for its site. You receive:
- A secure, client-specific online portal, reached by a direct link or QR code, holding everything your team needs in one place.
- A retained, on-call UXO Specialist, guaranteed to respond within five minutes, through the portal.
- Site-specific UXO Safety & Awareness films that replace the in-person UXO briefing, so every new starter can watch them before breaking ground.
- Site Safety Instructions setting out exactly what to do if a suspect item is found.
- A site-specific UXO risk pack: data sheets for the ordnance most likely to be found on your site, so your team know what they are looking for.
- An Emergency Response Plan with a site map and a muster point at a safe distance from the works.
- UXO safety posters chosen for your site’s risk, each with a QR code straight to the portal.
- RAMS for the Overwatch service, ready for your site file.
- Target Identification Reports if a suspect item is found (see below).
- Weekly billing, so you only pay for the weeks you need.
If a suspect item is found
The crew stop work, follow the Site Safety Instructions and contact the on-call UXO Specialist through the portal. We assess the item remotely and provide a detailed Target Identification Report, with a full dynamic risk assessment to decide whether it is hazardous, the level of risk it poses and the controls needed to manage it safely, in line with current UXO guidance and the ALARP principle. Where an item poses an immediate risk, we coordinate with the Police and military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units.
UXO Safety & Awareness films
Our films are a modern, efficient alternative to in-person UXO briefings. Using original WWII archive footage, contemporary visuals and clear narration, they explain the UXO risk across the UK, the types of munitions that may be encountered, safe working practices and the correct actions to take if a suspicious item is found.
Marine UXO Overwatch
Marine UXO Overwatch supports dredging and marine excavation where a UXO risk has been identified, offshore, nearshore and inshore, including ports, harbours, rivers and coastal projects. Site personnel and vessel operators reach the portal and the on-call UXO Specialist by link or QR code.
