In 2018, Steer was commissioned to undertake a critical excavation project at Gardermoen, Norway, aimed at producing crushed rock from moraine gravel. What began as a routine operation quickly escalated into a high-risk mission upon the unexpected discovery of unexploded ordnance (UXO) dating back to World War II.
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Gardermoen has a rich military history, serving as a military camp since 1740. During World War II, the German Luftwaffe occupied the area, constructing two 2,000-meter runways and various military installations. These developments transformed Gardermoen into a significant military airfield . The remnants of this era, including unexploded artillery shells, occasionally surface during construction and excavation activities, posing serious safety risks.
While excavating the topsoil for aggregate production, Steer's team encountered several unexploded artillery shells. Recognizing the potential danger, the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency (Forsvarsbygg) was immediately notified. A thorough assessment determined that approximately 1.5 meters of the top layer needed to be carefully removed to reach uncontaminated soil.
To ensure the safety of personnel and the surrounding environment, Steer mobilized advanced machinery and remote-controlled technology:
The excavation process was conducted in two phases, meticulously removing the contaminated top layer and relocating it to a designated disposal site. The use of remote-controlled machinery ensured that operators remained at a safe distance from potential hazards. Continuous monitoring and adherence to safety protocols were paramount throughout the operation.
Steer's intervention at Gardermoen exemplifies the importance of combining historical awareness with modern technology in construction and excavation projects. By effectively addressing the unexpected discovery of wartime ordnance, Steer not only ensured the safety of its personnel but also prevented potential delays in the project's timeline.
