Steer have completed a high-risk environmental cleanup project at the historic Orica site in Sætre, Norway—an area with over a century of explosive residue. Using state-of-the-art demolition technology and teleoperated remote-controlled excavation, the operation focused on the safe removal of RDX-contaminated soil and nitroglycerine-soaked buildings once used by the legendary Nitroglycerin Compagniet.
Originally established by Alfred Nobel in the 1800s, the site at Sætre was home to one of Norway’s oldest industrial-scale explosives factories. After over a hundred years of continuous operation, multiple structures were saturated with nitroglycerine, and various areas were layered with hazardous buried materials—including RDX-based compounds.
This made the cleanup operation exceptionally complex and dangerous, requiring advanced explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) expertise, specialized machinery, and rigorous health and safety protocols.
To minimize human exposure to explosive risk, Steer deployed a Caterpillar 320 excavator fitted with remote-control technology. All excavation work was carried out from a secure command container positioned at a safe distance from the blast zones.
The excavator operated with millimeter precision, exposing buried materials under controlled conditions. The surrounding zone was under constant drone surveillance, and vibration and shockwave sensors were installed to monitor every step of the process.
Several old factory buildings contaminated with nitroglycerine were demolished in a staged and remotely operated process. Prior to demolition, risk assessments and detonation safety plans were carried out, ensuring that every structure was safely cleared without endangering workers, nearby residents, or the environment.
Each blast was executed using Cordtex™ 100 detonating cord and Uni Tronic™ 600 electronic detonators. Sand infill and heavy-duty blasting mats were used to control debris and reduce shock waves, ensuring zero offsite impact.
The cleanup zone was cordoned off with multiple checkpoints and radio-connected safety personnel placed throughout the perimeter. Local schools and residents were kept informed through direct communication and public notices. The area was also physically swept and drone-monitored before each detonation to ensure total evacuation.
Throughout the project, Steer and partners like Geode Consult AS, Nitro Consult, and Orica prioritized safety, precision, and transparency.
The Orica Sætre cleanup project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when modern EOD practices, heavy machinery, and environmental responsibility come together. The safe handling of legacy explosives like RDX and nitroglycerine, combined with the remote demolition of unstable structures, reflects Steer’s leading role in explosive site remediation.
With operations like this, Steer continues to set the standard for responsible, safe, and efficient cleanup in contaminated zones—ensuring both public safety and environmental recovery.
