Historical aerial photographs and archival records provide important evidence as to whether an area may be contaminated by unexploded ordnance (UXO) dating from the Second World War.

In accordance with the German Guidelines for Explosive Ordnance Clearance (BFR KMR), our aerial imagery analysts research relevant records held in German and international archives. Historical aerial photographs taken by Allied forces are analysed on a multi-temporal basis, comparing imagery from different points in time.

We map and assess UXO-relevant features and structures, such as former military installations, ruins, demolition and fire sites, backfilled pits, bomb craters and suspected unexploded bomb locations.

Our services:

• Archival and records research
• Research and procurement of historical aerial imagery
• Multi-temporal aerial imagery analysis
• Mapping of UXO-relevant features and structures
• Assessment of areas suspected of UXO contamination
• Findings report including maps and recommendations for further action

The results provide you with a documented basis for deciding whether further investigation is required and, if so, to what extent.

Where UXO contamination is suspected, technical investigations and any necessary clearance measures must be professionally planned and coordinated with the construction schedule. In accordance with the BFR KMR, we support construction and infrastructure projects from the assessment of suspected UXO contamination through to the preparation of procurement procedures for clearance services. Our certified UXO clearance planning expertise provides the specialist support required for effective planning and coordination.

Our services:

• Planning and evaluation of technical investigation measures
• Selection of suitable geophysical detection methods and clearance measures
• Development of clearance concepts and occupational health and safety strategies
• Schedule and cost forecasts
• Preparation of tenders and procurement procedures for clearance services
• Coordination with authorities and explosive ordnance disposal services
• Documentation, verification and clearance recommendations

This enables you to integrate the necessary measures into your construction project at an early stage, based on a transparent and traceable planning process.

If the historical investigation and aerial imagery analysis identify specific indications of UXO contamination, technical investigations are carried out on site as required. Suspected areas are surveyed and the resulting data are correlated with the findings from the preceding investigations.

The affected areas can then be systematically investigated using suitable detection methods. Where required, we also work with specialised partners to support the subsequent UXO clearance process.

Possible measures include:

• Test field surveys and on-site investigations
• Area surveys
• Borehole surveys
• Area clearance
• Bomb crater clearance
• UXO clearance during construction
• Mine clearance and recovery of unexploded ordnance

This ensures that historical investigation, specialist planning, technical investigation and, where necessary, clearance are seamlessly integrated on the basis of consistent information.