UXO at shooting ranges: incidents, issues and acceptance of risk in respect to closure of former shooting ranges
Publish date: 2015-12-22
Report number: FOI-R--4146--SE
Pages: 39
Written in: Swedish
Keywords:
- UXO
- unexploded ordnance
- ammunition
- munition
- shooting range
- accidents
Abstract
This report should act as a support for Fortifikationsverket in issues that may occur when disposing of closed shooting ranges and exercise fields. Disposing of such areas may pose a risk for accidents with unexploded ordnance (UXO). UXO is an unavoidable bi-product from live fire exercises and is ammunition that didn´t initiate and explode as intended. Based on the number of accidents found in available literature and the amount of sites and amount of UXO expected, it appears rather rare with accidents on shooting ranges and exercise fields. Common for most accidents leading to injury or fatality is an intentional interaction with or manipulation of the UXO, though it can´t be confirmed if the individuals were aware that it was an explosive object. It appears very rare that strict criteria are used to quantify the risk associated with disposal. Often, it is only stated that the risk must be at acceptable levels and that it should be As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). It is obvious that a zero risk never can be achieved so an acceptable level must be decided. It is important to separate the concept of amount of remaining UXO and remaining risk. By the definition of risk, a consequence is needed and risk must therefore always be handled by the combination, probability of an event and the consequence. With caution included, the risk levels of 1·10-7 per year for third party after disposal and 1·10-6 per year for clearance personnel, to die due to UXO, is suggested to be considered negligible.