So what is UXO?

UXO is an acronym for Un-eXploded Ordnance and is used to describe Explosive Ordnance (EO) that has been primed, fuzed, armed, or otherwise prepared for use and used in an armed conflict.

The term UXO may also be used to refer to any EO that due to non use in an armed conflict was left behind either by accident/mislaid/dumped by a person(s).

EO that has functioned yet contains residual explosive or chemical warfare agent is normally treated as UXO as well



UXO can be either:

  • Dropped
  • Projected
  • Fired
  • Launched
  • Thrown



But the common thread for UXO is its failure to Function as intended.

The threat of UXO on your site does not necessarily come from the Luftwaffe only, as outside of heavily populated cities and Industrial areas and Ports you would be more likely to come into contact with UXO items from the Allied forces.




Some of the more common areas for Allied UXO are:

Always remember the UXO if disturbed (moved, picked up, played with, kicked, thrown, etc.) may explode without warning.

Any item of UXO that is found must not be handled by members of the public.

If you do find any suspicious item:

  • Assume it is Live and Dangerous.
  • Stop all works immediately.
  • Do not touch or interfere with the item.
  • Try mark the locationof the suspect item.
  • Stop all works and vibration sources (Plant machinery) nearby.
  • Evacuate site personnel to a safe area (ideally 100m min)