Early Beginnings

The foundations of modern bomb disposal were laid by Sir Vivian Dering Majendie, who established the first professional civilian bomb squad. His pioneering work in the late 19th century, including the creation of the Explosives Act in 1875, set the stage for systematic bomb disposal efforts. Majendie’s innovative techniques for handling and dismantling explosives, as well as his contributions during the Fenian dynamite campaign of 1881-85, saved countless lives.

World War I: Formalisation of Bomb Disposal

During World War I, the rapid mass production of munitions led to numerous manufacturing defects, resulting in many unexploded shells, or "duds." In response, the British military formed dedicated sections within the Royal Army Ordnance Corps to manage these hazardous remnants. Although these early bomb disposal units had limited tools and training, their experiences laid the groundwork for more structured and informed practices.

As Ammunition Technicians developed methods to safely defuse one type of munition, adversaries would modify or enhance the design to increase the difficulty and danger of removal. This ongoing game of cat-and-mouse continues to this day, with disarmament techniques kept confidential to maintain their effectiveness.

World War II: The Blitz and Beyond

The extensive bombing raids on the UK during World War II, particularly the Blitz, marked a significant evolution in bomb disposal. The Royal Engineers created specialised bomb disposal companies to address the widespread threat of unexploded bombs (UXBs). These units faced the added challenge of anti-handling devices designed to thwart disarmament efforts.

Key Developments:

- Formation of Bomb Disposal Companies: By early 1941, the Royal Engineers had established 25 bomb disposal companies to tackle the increasing number of UXBs.

- Introduction of Anti-Handling Devices: The Luftwaffe's ZUS40 anti-removal fuze introduced a new level of danger, prompting the development of advanced disarmament techniques.

Post-War and Northern Ireland

In the years following WWII, the expertise of British bomb disposal units was further honed during the conflict in Northern Ireland. The Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA) used a variety of sophisticated explosive devices, necessitating advanced countermeasures.

Key Developments:

- Royal Logistic Corps (RLC): Ammunition Technicians from the RLC became adept at dealing with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), gaining invaluable experience that would benefit future operations.

- 321 EOD Unit: This specialist unit played a crucial role in addressing the bomb threats posed by the IRA, leading to the development of improved bomb disposal techniques and equipment.

Modern Advancements

The rise of global terrorism and low-intensity conflicts in the 21st century has driven further innovation in bomb disposal. Modern Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams use a combination of advanced technology and remote techniques to safely neutralise threats.

Technological Innovations:

- Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): Robots like the "Wheelbarrow" are equipped with cameras, sensors, and manipulators to handle and disarm explosives remotely.

- Advanced Detection Equipment: High-performance sensors allow for more precise identification and analysis of explosive devices.

Current Practices

Today, EOD operators in the UK come from all three military services, each with specialised roles and responsibilities. The Royal Logistic Corps, Royal Engineers, and Royal Navy clearance divers work collaboratively to address both conventional munitions and modern IEDs.

Safety and Protocols:

- Remote Operations: Whenever possible, bomb disposal is conducted remotely to minimise risk to personnel.

- Protective Gear: Technicians wear specialised protective suits designed to withstand blasts and shrapnel.

- Containment Vessels: In some cases, munitions are safely transported to remote areas for disarmament.

Where do commercial companies fit in?

Commercial UXO mitigation companies like Igne play a crucial role in supporting bomb disposal efforts in the UK, working alongside military bomb disposal engineers to ensure public safety.

Collaboration with military engineers: commercial UXO companies often have specialists with military backgrounds, bringing expertise in handling various ordnance types. These companies can also assist military engineers during large-scale clearance operations, such as the clearance of former firing ranges.

Site clearance and assessment: we are frequently engaged in assessing and clearing sites earmarked for construction or development, including the removal of UXO where necessary. We also manage sites with historical contamination, such as military training areas, wartime aircraft crash sites etc.

Technological advancements: we invest in the latest technology for detecting UXO, complementing the resources available to the military. We also contribute to the development of new methodologies and tools for UXO detection, benefiting the broader field of UXO disposal.

Regulatory compliance and safety: commercial UXO mitigation companies must comply with national safety standards and regulations, working under stringent guidelines to ensure all operations are conducted safely. We also implement rigorous safety protocols and provide training to workers on the ground, guaranteeing high standards of safety during all activity.

Public safety and environmental protection: by identifying and disposing of UXO, we aim to prevent potential accidents and ensure safe processes are followed. We also work to mitigate the impact of UXO on the environment, making sure that contaminated areas are made safe for public use and ecological restoration.

Training and consultancy: Igne offers training programmes for other organisations, including private companies and government bodies, to raise awareness and improve safe working practices on site. We also provide consultancy, helping organisations to understand and manage UXO-related risks effectively.

Conclusion

The evolution of bomb disposal in the UK since WWII reflects a continuous progression of knowledge, technology, and expertise. From the early days of manual detection to the sophisticated remote techniques of today, the commitment to safety and efficiency remains steadfast. As threats evolve, so too will the methods and strategies employed by the dedicated professionals in the field of bomb disposal.

If you’re planning any form of construction or intrusive ground works, it’s crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of your project site. Whilst not always an issue, unexploded ordnance (UXO) can of course pose a significant risk and it must not be overlooked.  Contact Igne’s dedicated research team for a comprehensive risk assessment before commencing any works. Our expert team, equipped with the latest technology and extensive experience, will ensure your project proceeds safely and efficiently, mitigating potential hazards from UXO.

Contact Igne Today:

• Ensure safety and compliance
• Protect your workforce and the public
• Mitigate environmental impact

For a thorough risk assessment and professional UXO mitigation services, Igne will safeguard your project and ensure peace of mind.