The 4 phases
NjordIC USA is a USA-based operating UXO consultancy firm. NjordIC USA is particularly specialized in UXO related challenges in the maritime domain. We add value to our customers' projects by managing the UXO risks in a pragmatic but safe way.
The project control in our field of operations often seems limited. Budgets are overrun and schedules are often exceeded because unexpected circumstances occur during the project. This calls for a firm project management. To realise this, NjordIC USA uses a phased approach. This approach aims to reduce uncertainties in each subsequent project phase. This creates a manageable process.
The project management approach of NjordIC USA consists of the following phases:
- UXO Historical research
- UXO risk assessment
- Supervising UXO field works
- UXO ALARP certification
1. HISTORICAL RESEARCH
Profound and detailed historical research is indispensable as the foundation of each successful UXO risk mitigation project. The available historical information is gathered from e.g. archives, literature and open sources. Based upon the consultation and evaluation of the historical information, the war-related events and/or dumping events relevant to the area are identified and analysed. Subsequently the likelihood of presence for the main categories of UXO is determined. Finally the types/calibres of the UXO likely to be present are detailed.
NjordIC USA has access to all relevant archives and databases. We have excellent contacts with relevant experts specialised in war-related history
2. uxo risk assessment
In assessing the overall UXO risks for a project, a Semi Quantitative Risk Assessment (SQRA) process is applied. SQRA is considered by NjordIC USA to be the best practice in the offshore industry. The assessment is based on the conclusions of STEP 1, the planned working methods & equipment, the likelihood of a detonation occurring and the effects of a detonation. If the SQRA identifies that a risk reduction is required to ensure safe working conditions, the mitigation measures generally consist of:
1. UXO survey
2. Avoidance of significant objects,
3. Identification of potential UXO objects which cannot be avoided
4. Disposal of actual UXO where avoidance is unachievable or practical.
NjordIC USA will continuously strive to implement and manage the most pragmatic solution. The scope of work for the UXO risk mitigation measures is determined by assessing the appropriate threshold levels for modelling of anomalies detected by a UXO survey, the maximum burial depth of UXO below the seabed, UXO migration and other parameters relevant to the area.
3. Project management plan
It is essential to ensure the UXO risk mitigation strategy outlined in the UXO Risk Assessment is embedded into the project documentation. NjordIC USA provides the project management documentation for the project including, but not limited to Project Execution Plan, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Plan, Quality Assurance / Quality Control Plan. Also Stakeholder Management is utilized at this stage, involving local stakeholders and EOD authorities, to clear the path for smooth operations.
NjordIC USA is also able to organize and present the project kick-off to ensure a well-prepared team to start operations
4. uxo clearance operations
The UXO clearance operations are performed by the selected contractor and consist of 4 sequential steps:
Survey and detection, involving a variety of different survey techniques and platforms.
Classification & identification, involving ROV, WROV and EOD divers,.
UXO removal.
UXO disposal by the local EOD authorities or contractor (depending on the location legislation).
NjordIC USA can assist in the EOD-management, the QA/QC procedures and the ALARP sign-off on behalf of a Contractor but also in Client Representative roles representing the Employer. Due to our indenpendent position we can act on both sides.
NjordIC USA is also active in validating survey techniques and actively looking for new techniques or combination of techniques with the sole purpose of making UXO clearance as efficient as possible.
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