The Crown Estate published a document in 2010 (1), mainly for dredging and
marine aggregate operators, to manage UXO risk associated with dredging
munitions. However, little guidance exists for those people involved in other
marine activities such as offshore wind farms, cable and pipe laying activities
in regards to assessing and managing UXO risk.
Renewable UK have put in place
a five year strategy (2012 to 2016) for the development of new guidance and good
practice for the renewable energy industry while taking the lead with regard to
future policy, regulation and training. The need for succinct guidance is still
worthwhile to encapsulate and signpost these relevant frameworks and best
practice guides, and to consolidate the assessment and management of UXO risk
within the marine environment.
Project aims
CIRIA’s UXO project will help professionals involved in marine developments,
eg cables, pipe laying, off shore wind farms with:
-
understanding their responsibilities and liabilities including different
risk transfer mechanisms (eg insurance)
-
how to prepare a transparent and robust perceived risk assessment based on
scientific, objective principals
-
understand the implications and the uniqueness of UXO hazards for marine
developments and how these can affect their risk assessment and management
-
explain what is required in a survey, the principles and what circumstance
the different surveying methods should be applied
-
understand the advantages and limitations of available approaches and keep
up-to-date with emerging technologies in the site survey
-
how to appoint competent professionals to carry out the risk
assessment
-
how the risk of UXO can be managed effectively with other technical and
construction risks
-
work more efficiently with other regulators, the public, government bodies,
and other stakeholders.
Reference:
(1) The Crown Estate (2010) Dealing with munitions in marine sediments.
Marine Estate, London, UK.
Project status
Research contractor selection is currently underway.
For more information contact
[email protected].