Steer recently completed a demanding and high-risk remediation project at Hofstad Leir, a former military camp in Melhus, Norway. The site, historically used for ammunition storage and military operations, required advanced technology and strict safety protocols to manage the environmental risks associated with unexploded ordnance (UXO) and other hazardous materials.
A Caterpillar 324 excavator was deployed to carry out the bulk of the earthmoving operations. Equipped with a state-of-the-art sorting bucket, the machine enabled selective removal and preliminary sorting of contaminated materials. This allowed for efficient segregation of hazardous items from inert fill, minimizing the volume of material requiring special handling.
Large quantities of grenades and other explosive remnants were uncovered during the excavation. To manage these discoveries safely, a specialized processing setup was established. Excavated material was fed into a spindle crusher to reduce size and break up compacted layers. From there, the material was conveyed directly via transport belt into a secured working tent.
Inside the tent, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel conducted meticulous manual sorting of the processed material. This stage was critical for identifying and safely removing remaining munitions and metallic objects with potential explosive risk.
The approach taken at Hofstad Leir represents a safe and effective solution to one of the most challenging environmental remediation scenarios. By combining remote handling technology, expert personnel, and robust safety infrastructure—including safety berms and operator shielding—Steer contributed to transforming a dangerous, contaminated military site into a safe, developable area.
With the successful clearance of several waste sites and the safe removal of explosive hazards—including over 150 live mortar grenades from a 1948 ammunition depot explosion. The former military area has been cleared for commercial development and is set to contribute to the growing Melhus industrial zone.
This project was completed in close collaboration with Forsvarsbygg, Skifte Eiendom and local stakeholders. Gjermundshaug/Steer’s role in executing complex, hazardous operations with precision underscores our capacity to deliver innovative solutions in environments where safety, reliability, and environmental responsibility are paramount.
