Approaching and securing

The final phase of the detection process involves approaching and securing suspect objects identified during detection . Each suspect point is located, carefully approached and then identified with the aid of advanced measuring equipment and/or secure equipment. If it turns out to be an explosive, the object will be secured in a certified storage unit. After all suspected objects have been approached, the Explosives Clearing Service of the Ministry of Defence (EOD) is called in to transfer the secured explosives. The EOD then defuses the explosives.

Completion Report

After all suspect points have been secured, a Completion Report is drawn up. A Completion Report means that the risks in the survey area have been minimised at the time of delivery and that the work can be carried out.

"Mooder Maas (Dura Vermeer - Ploegam) is doing business with ECG for the OCE investigation because of their expertise in this field. The contractors have been working with ECG for years on previous projects. Through their experience, ECG knows what is and what is not possible. The flexible attitude towards our work creates a good mutual cooperation."

Stijn Rutten
Operational Environment Manager

Frequently asked questions

Isn't approaching explosives dangerous?

Yes, detection may indicate the presence of a suspicious object in the soil, but the actual nature of the object can only be determined after an approach. Therefore, it is important that the approach to objects is carried out by specialised and experienced professionals.

Are only explosives being unearthed?

No. Metallic objects or debris are also often excavated. These objects had a value corresponding to a possible explosive when the measurement data were interpreted and were therefore approached with the same caution. Horseshoes, iron plates, chicken wire and other non-hazardous objects are often encountered.

What happens to finds other than explosives?

These are disposed of by ECG or (after consultation with the client) kept separate. Historically valuable objects are always handed over to the client. In the case of suspected criminal finds (such as weapons or money safes), the local police are also informed.

Do you defuse explosives yourself?

No, that task is reserved for the Explosives Clearing House of the Ministry of Defence. ECG can serve you from preliminary investigation to securing found ammunition in our special storage bunkers. The actual defusing of the finds is a government task.