EP 75-1-2 

01 August 2004 

MUNITIONS AND EXPLOSIVES OF CONCERN 

(MEC) SUPPORT DURING HAZARDOUS, 

TOXIC, AND RADIOACTIVE WASTE (HTRW) 

AND CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES 

ENGINEER PAMPHLET 

“Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.” 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 

AVAILABILITY 

Electronic copies of this and other U.S. Army Corps of Engineers publications are available 

on the Internet at http://www.hnd.usace.army.mil/techinfo/engpubs.htm. This site is the only 

repository for all official USACE engineer regulations, circulars, manuals, and other 

documents originating from HQUSACE. Publications are provided in portable document 

format (pdf). 

 i 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY EP 75-1-2 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

CEMP-CE Washington, DC 20314-1000 

Pamphlet 

No. 75-1-2 01 August 2004 

Explosives 

MUNITIONS AND EXPLOSIVES OF CONCERN (MEC) SUPPORT DURING 

HAZARDOUS, TOXIC, AND RADIOACTIVE WASTE (HTRW) 

AND CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

 Paragraph Page

Chapter 1. Introduction 

General........................................................................ 1-1 1-1 

Responsibilities ........................................................... 1-2 1-2 

Functional Roles ......................................................... 1-3 1-2 

Chapter 2. Statement of Work/Independent Government 

Estimates 

Introduction................................................................. 2-1 2-1 

SOW............................................................................ 2-2 2-1 

Preparation of the IGE ............................................... 2-3 2-2 

Chapter 3. Planning Considerations for MEC Support 

Introduction................................................................. 3-1 3-1 

Planning Documents ................................................... 3-2 3-1 

MEC Support Work Plan ............................................ 3-3 3-1 

ESP.............................................................................. 3-4 3-3 

Conventional ESS ....................................................... 3-5 3-6 

Personnel Qualifications and Work Standards............ 3-6 3-6 

Training....................................................................... 3-7 3-7 

Explosives Safety........................................................ 3-8 3-7 

PPE.............................................................................. 3-9 3-9 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

 Paragraph Page

Chapter 3. Planning Considerations For MEC Support 

(Continued) 

Fire Prevention........................................................... 3-10 3-10 

Emergency Procedures............................................... 3-11 3-10 

Hazardous Waste Manifest ........................................ 3-12 3-13 

Chapter 4. Geophysical Detection Equipment 

Introduction................................................................. 4-1 4-1 

Factors to Consider ..................................................... 4-2 4-1 

Types of Instrumentation ............................................ 4-3 4-2 

Geophysical Investigation Performance ..................... 4-4 4-3 

Geophysical Prove-Out (GPO) ................................... 4-5 4-4 

Equipment Standardization and QC Tests .................. 4-6 4-5 

Maintenance................................................................ 4-7 4-7 

Chapter 5. Anomaly Avoidance Procedures During HTRW 

Investigation/Design Activities 

Introduction................................................................. 5-1 5-1 

UXO Team Composition ............................................ 5-2 5-1 

Planning ...................................................................... 5-3 5-1 

Responsibilities ........................................................... 5-4 5-1 

Authority ..................................................................... 5-5 5-2 

Access Surveys ........................................................... 5-6 5-2 

Surface Soil Sampling................................................. 5-7 5-3 

Passive Soil Gas Sampling.......................................... 5-8 5-4 

Active Soil Gas Sampling and Direct Push 

Technology (DPT)..................................................... 5-9 5-4 

Subsurface Soil Sampling and Monitoring Well 

Installation ................................................................ 5-10 5-5 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

 Paragraph Page

Chapter 5. Anomaly Avoidance Procedures During HTRW 

Investigation/Design Activities (continued) 

Test Pit and Trench Excavations................................ 5-11 5-7 

Groundwater Monitoring/Aquifer 

Characterization........................................................ 5-12 5-8 

MEC Disposition ....................................................... 5-13 5-9 

Quality Management.................................................. 5-14 5-9 

Chapter 6. MEC Support During Construction Activities 

Introduction................................................................. 6-1 6-1 

UXO Team Composition ............................................ 6-2 6-1 

Planning ...................................................................... 6-3 6-2 

Responsibilities ........................................................... 6-4 6-2 

Authority ..................................................................... 6-5 6-3 

Standby Support.......................................................... 6-6 6-3 

Subsurface Removal in Support of Construction 

Activities.................................................................... 6-7 6-4 

MEC Destruction ........................................................ 6-8 6-7 

Quality Management................................................... 6-9 6-12 

Chapter 7. Procedures When RCWM is Encountered 

Introduction................................................................. 7-1 7-1 

Response Procedures................................................... 7-2 7-1 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

 Page

Appendix A – References...................................................................................................A-1 

Appendix B – Statement Of Work - Anomaly Avoidance Activities ................................B-1 

Appendix C – Statement Of Work - MEC Support During Construction Activities .........C-1 

Glossary.......................................................................................................................Glossary-1 
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CHAPTER 1 

Introduction 

1-1. General. This Engineer Pamphlet (EP) presents procedures for providing Munitions and 

Explosives of Concern (MEC) support during Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste 

(HTRW) and construction activities. MEC support activities include: anomaly avoidance 

activities conducted during HTRW activities; standby MEC support during construction 

activities; and subsurface removal of MEC during construction activities. 

a. During the investigative/design phase of any project on a site known or suspected to 

contain MEC, provisions for MEC support will be included. MEC support refers to anomaly 

avoidance techniques implemented to avoid any potential surface MEC and any subsurface 

anomalies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) primarily implements anomaly 

avoidance procedures on HTRW sites. Intrusive anomaly investigation is not authorized 

during anomaly avoidance activities. Although the examples of anomaly avoidance 

techniques in this EP pertain to HTRW-related activities, the procedures may be modified to 

address other types of activities, as appropriate. For additional information on anomaly 

avoidance techniques, contact the Military Munitions Center of Expertise (MM CX). See 

Chapter 5 for a discussion on anomaly avoidance procedures to be used during HTRW 

activities and Chapter 6 for MEC support during construction activities. 

b. MEC support during construction activities, including the remediation phase of an 

HTRW project, on a site with known or suspected MEC may include only MEC standby 

support or may require a subsurface removal response. As described in Chapter 12 of DOD 

6055.9 STD, the level of MEC support required during construction activities is dependent on 

the probability of encountering MEC. Contact the MM CX for guidance and assistance in 

determining the level of support. 

(1) If the probability of encountering MEC is low (e.g., current or previous land use 

leads to an initial determination that MEC may be present), only MEC standby support will be 

required. MEC standby support is discussed in paragraph 6-6 of this document. 

(2) When a determination is made that the probability of encountering MEC is moderate 

to high (e.g., current or previous land use leads to a determination that MEC was employed or 

disposed of in the area of concern), Unexploded Ordnance- (UXO-) qualified personnel must 

conduct a subsurface removal for the known construction footprint and remove all discovered 

MEC. 
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(3) The level of effort for construction support is site/task-specific and will be 

determined on a case-by-case basis by the project delivery team (PDT). 

c. If MEC is encountered after initiation of an HTRW or construction project where 

MEC support has not been instituted, the procedures published in this EP will apply. 

d. The MM CX will determine procedures for sampling and cleanup of Munitions 

Constituents (MC) contaminated with primary explosives on a case-by-case basis. The 

HTRW Design District is responsible for the design and removal or remedial action to clean 

up soils contaminated with secondary explosives. Refer to ER 1110-1-8153 for definitions of 

primary and secondary explosives. Contact the MM CX for the latest procedures to be used 

for MC sampling. 

1-2. Responsibilities. 

a. All USACE personnel involved with the Military Munitions Response Program are 

responsible for safely executing military munitions response projects, including MEC support 

during HTRW and construction activities, in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, 

and policies. A detailed discussion of USACE organizational responsibilities for military 

munitions response projects is presented in ER 1110-1-8153. Safety and health requirements, 

responsibilities, and procedures for MEC operations (response actions and any other MEC 

activity) are defined in ER 385-1-95. 

b. All USACE organizations will ensure that all personnel with authorized access to 

the site for MEC support during HTRW and construction activities are familiar with, and have 

access to, copies of the accepted Work Plan and Accident Prevention Plan/Site Safety and 

Health Plan (APP/SSHP). In addition, each organization will ensure that such personnel 

receive the appropriate training, medical surveillance, and personal protective equipment 

(PPE) required by the safety plan, contract specifications, Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration Standards, USACE regulations, and applicable Department of Defense (DOD) 

and Department of the Army (DA) regulations. 

1-3. Functional Roles. The following section provides a description of the functional roles 

for MEC support activities. A more comprehensive description of the functional roles for the 

organizations discussed below is also provided in ER 1110-1-8153. 

a. Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (HQUSACE). If an Explosives Safety 

Submission (ESS) is required for MEC support activities, it will be reviewed and approved by 

the MM CX acting for HQUSACE. 
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b. Major Subordinate Command (MSC). If an ESS is required for MEC support 

activities, it will be monitored by an MSC in accordance with ER 1110-1-8153. 

c. District. A district will: 

(1) Execute MEC support activities. 

(2) Assign a Project Manager (PM) to lead the PDT, coordinate all project activities, 

serve as a liaison with other stakeholders, and review/approve project documents as required. 

(3) Conduct MEC support activities with either in-house resources or by contract. 

(4) Coordinate the MEC support project with the MM CX. 

(5) Prepare a project-specific Statement of Work (SOW) and Independent Government 

Estimates (IGE) for MEC support activities. 

(6) Submit plans developed for MEC support activities to the MM CX. All MEC 

concerns will be addressed before initiating any on-site activities. 

(7) If an ESS is required, review the ESS and provide comments and written 

concurrence or nonconcurrence. 

(8) Supervise the fieldwork. MEC operations will be supervised by UXO-qualified 

personnel as defined in ER 385-1-95. 

(9) Conduct appropriate quality verification activities. 

(10) Coordinate requests for explosives ordnance disposal (EOD) support from the 52nd 

Ordnance Group (EOD) with the MM CX. 

(11) Coordinate with the appropriate Military Munitions Design Center (MM DC), as 

necessary. 

d. MM DC. If an ESS is required for planned MEC support activities at a site, the 

appropriate MM DC will ensure its proper planning and preparation. The MM DC provides 

construction support/MEC support as defined by the district. 

e. MM CX. The MM CX will: 
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(1) Review and provide comments and written concurrence or nonconcurrence on MEC 

support-related products (e.g., SOW, Work Plan, and ESS) to ensure compliance with 

Federal, DOD, DA, and USACE MEC safety and environmental regulations. 

(2) Provide MEC technical support to any USACE office conducting construction 

and/or HTRW operations in areas where MEC is suspected or known to exist. 

(3) Develop and/or approve MEC-specific contract requirements, including military 

munitions response contractor personnel qualifications and work standards, for contract 

acquisition. 

(4) Assimilate and analyze lessons learned from MEC support projects and provide 

them to the HTRW CX for inclusion in the USACE lessons learned database. 

(5) Coordinate support with the 52nd Ordnance Group (EOD) in accordance with the 

Memorandum of Agreement between the U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, 

Huntsville (USAESCH) and the 52nd Ordnance Group (EOD). 

(6) Coordinate the review and approval of an ESS (if required) with the U.S. Army 

Technical Center for Explosives Safety, and the Department of Defense Explosives Safety 

Board (DDESB). 

(7) Provide construction support/MEC avoidance to districts as requested. 

f. OE Safety Specialist. If a subsurface removal response is being conducted in 

support of construction activities, an OE Safety Specialist will be present to provide safety 

oversight. Otherwise, an OE Safety Specialist is generally not required on-site. Additional 

information on the requirements for when an OE Safety Specialist is required on site is 

available in ER 385-1-95. 
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CHAPTER 2 

Statement of Work/Independent Government Estimates 

2-1. Introduction. This chapter provides guidance on preparing an SOW and IGE for MEC 

support during HTRW and construction activities. The district is responsible for executing 

the SOW and IGE for MEC support activities.

2-2. SOW. 

a. General. Safety and health are overriding concerns during MEC support project 

design and execution. The MM CX safety personnel are points-of-contact (POCs) for MEC 

safety issues and have particular, specialized expertise in identifying, interpreting, and 

implementing applicable safety requirements for military munitions response to MEC 

projects. Each SOW for MEC support activities must be closely coordinated with these 

personnel. 

b. Preparation. 

(1) The PM along with the PDT is responsible for preparing the SOW required for MEC 

support activities in conjunction with HTRW or construction activities. The MM CX may be 

consulted to provide the appropriate statements or paragraphs concerning background and 

authority for the task order or contract award. 

(2) Appendix B provides an example SOW for anomaly avoidance during HTRW 

activities on sites with known or suspected MEC. Appendix C provides an example SOW for 

MEC support during construction activities on sites with known or suspected MEC. The 

appropriate MEC support SOW may be used as an addendum to a larger SOW for an existing 

project. If the intrusive investigation of anomalies is deemed necessary, the SOW for MEC 

support during construction activities should be used. 

(3) The examples provided in Appendices B and C should be followed to ensure that the 

applicable requirements (i.e., site visit, Work Plan preparation, MEC support procedures, 

quality control, reporting, and public affairs assistance) are included. The MM CX should 

assist in the drafting of SOW verbiage when MEC support is required for HTRW activities 

not specifically referenced in Appendix B or when construction activities other than those 

presented in Appendix C are proposed and MEC support is required. 
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(4) Neither of these examples contains provisions for a records search by the contractor 

to determine what types of MEC might be encountered. Districts should consider completing 

a records search to determine the probability for contact with MEC and the potential types and 

quantities before using the SOW in Appendix B or C. 

c. Review Process. Following the preparation of the SOW by the PDT, the PM will 

submit copies to the MM CX for review. The MM CX will provide comments and written 

concurrence or nonconcurrence for the decision/approval authority. The MM CX will be 

allowed 15 calendar days from receipt of the SOW for this review. If no comments are 

received within this time frame, concurrence may be assumed by the executing agency. 

2-3. Preparation of the IGE. Once the SOW is prepared, an IGE for anomaly avoidance 

during HTRW or construction activities is prepared. The structure of the cost estimate will 

vary depending on the contract type. The recommended USACE software programs to be 

used in preparing cost estimates are the Micro Computer-Aided Cost Engineering System 

(MCACES), Gold Version 5.3; MCACES for Windows; Lotus 123TM spreadsheets; or 

ExcelTM spreadsheets. The cost estimator or project engineer may develop crew and 

productivity sheets for the various field activities or tasks in the SOW to determine the 

duration or number of hours for the various labor categories needed to support each task. The 

labor rates are burdened rates and reflect all contractor mark-ups. Materials, travel, and per 

diem are duration driven and are totaled separately from the labor. The materials estimated 

can be purchased, rented, or allocated to overhead. 
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CHAPTER 3 

Planning Considerations for MEC Support 

3-1. Introduction. This chapter discusses the requirements that must be addressed prior to 

initiating MEC support activities during HTRW and construction activities on sites known or 

suspected to contain MEC. The objective of MEC support activities is to conduct safe and 

efficient operations while limiting potential exposure to a minimum number of personnel for a 

minimum time and to the minimum amount of MEC. 

3-2. Planning Documents. Site-specific planning documents that detail the methodologies 

that will be used during the MEC support project will be prepared. For anomaly avoidance 

activities, the planning document is the HTRW Work Plan. For MEC support during 

construction activities, the planning documents include the Work Plan and appropriate 

subplans and appendices (and an ESS, if required). For range construction projects (including 

target maintenance), the planning documents include plans and specifications (an ESS is not 

required). The planning documents will be prepared in accordance with the project SOW and 

contract requirements. The PDT will ensure that these documents are consistent with each 

other. 

3-3. MEC Support Work Plan. 

a. For anomaly avoidance and construction activities, a MEC Support Work Plan will 

be prepared to supplement the prime contractor’s or USACE’s Work Plan/Site Plan. The 

MEC Support Work Plan will be prepared in accordance with the project SOW and contract 

requirements. 

b. Content. The MEC Support Work Plan does not need to be comprehensive, as it is a 

supplement to the overall site Work Plan. The MEC Support Work Plan will detail the 

management approach and operational procedures that will be used to complete the MEC 

support activity. The MEC Support Work Plan will indicate the specific geophysical 

instrument that the UXO team intends to use. The MEC Support Work Plan will include an 

APP/SSHP that specifically addresses MEC operations. The PDT will ensure that the MEC 

Support Work Plan and all appropriate subplans (e.g., APP/SSHP, ESS, etc.) are consistent. 

c. The MEC Support Work Plan will be submitted by the contractor to the PM for 

review and comment by the PDT. The PM will then forward one copy to the MM CX. The 

MM CX will review and provide comments and written concurrence or nonconcurrence on 
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the planning documents containing MEC support provisions. The MM CX will be allocated 

15 calendar days from the date of receipt for this review. If no comments are received from 

the MM CX within this time frame, concurrence will be assumed by the executing agency. 

d. The accepted MEC Support Work Plan will serve as the contractual basis for all 

subsequent MEC activities. Current copies of the MEC Support Work Plan will be kept for 

reference by the PM, the contractor’s senior site representative or safety manager, the UXO 

team, and the OE Safety Specialist (if required onsite). The accepted MEC Support Work 

Plan will be maintained in the district office. 

e. For those sites where subsurface removal in support of construction activities is 

required, the MEC Support Work Plan will contain the appropriate subplans and appendices 

from the following list, based on the MEC support project requirements and information 

already contained in the overall Work Plan: 

(1) Technical Management Plan. 

(2) Explosives Management Plan. 

(3) Explosives Siting Plan (ESP). 

(4) Geophysical Prove-out Plan and Report. 

(5) Geophysical Investigation Plan. 

(6) Geospatial Information and Electronic Submittals. 

(7) Work, Data, and Cost Management Plan. 

(8) Property Management Plan. 

(9) Quality Control (QC) Plan. 

(10) Environmental Protection Plan. 

(11) Investigative Derived Waste (IDW) Plan. 

(12) Appendix – Task Order SOW. 

(13) Appendix – Site Maps. 
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(14) Appendix – Local POCs. 

(15) Appendix – APP/SSHP. 

(16) Appendix – Munitions Constituents Sampling and Analysis Plan. 

(17) Appendix – Contractor Forms. 

(18) Appendix – Minimum Separation Distance (MSD) Calculation Sheets. 

(19) Appendix – Resumes. 

f. Modifications. Changes may be required to the MEC Support Work Plan and/or 

APP/SSHP after approval by the Contracting Officer. A modification that affects any MEC 

subsurface removal operational and/or safety procedure may also require a revision to and reapproval of the ESP and/or ESS. 

3-4. ESP. 

a. General. 

(1) An ESP, a component of the MEC Support Work Plan, is prepared only for MEC 

support during construction activities where MEC removal is planned. The ESP will provide 

explosives safety criteria for planning and siting explosive operations. The ESP discusses the 

proposed MSDs for unintentional detonations, intentional detonations, and siting of critical 

project components. The ESP will describe the basis of design, all design calculations, and 

proposed hazard mitigation measures to be implemented to protect the public, non-project 

personnel, and site workers from explosive hazards. The ESP will be reviewed by the PDT to 

ensure that the appropriate MSD criteria have been applied. 

(2) The ESP will discuss the following explosive operations: Munitions Response 

Areas (MRAs), explosives storage magazines, and planned or established demolition areas. 

The location of these explosives operations will be sited on a map with a scale of 1 inch 

equals 400 feet. A larger scale may be used if available and if a map using such a scale is not 

too large to be included in the Work Plan. A smaller scale is acceptable if distances can be 

accurately shown. If an unscaled map is used, the map must have labeled distances. The 

MSDs calculated for the operation will be discussed in the text of the plan and QuantityDistance (Q-D) arcs for the above-listed project elements will be drawn on the map. 
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(3) Q-D. Explosives safety distance tables prescribe the necessary separations and 

specify the maximum quantities for various classes of explosives permitted in any one 

location. The Q-D tables provided in DOD 6055.9-STD reflect the acceptable minimum 

criteria for the storage and handling of various classes and amounts of explosives. These 

distances will be used for siting storage locations. The project will site Open Burn/Open 

Detonation areas in accordance with EP 1110-1-17. 

b. MRAs. During intrusive operations (i.e., operations that involve or result in the 

penetration of the ground surface at an area known or suspected to contain MEC. See EP 

1110-1-18 for additional details), the MSD will be determined using two sets of criteria. The 

first set of criteria has been established for unintentional detonations (i.e., not planned in 

advance), and the second set of criteria has been established for intentional detonations (i.e., 

planned, controlled detonations). Details on calculating MSDs are published in EM 1110-1-

4009. 

(1) Unintentional Detonations. For an unintentional detonation, the applicable MSDs 

are the MSDs for unintentional detonations and the team separation distance (TSD). The 

MSD for unintentional detonations is the minimum distance that non-essential personnel and 

the public must be separated from intrusive operations. The TSD is the minimum distance 

that project teams must be separated during intrusive operations. 

(2) Intentional Detonations. The MSD for intentional detonations is the distance that 

both project personnel and the public must be from the intentional detonation. 

c. Explosives Storage Magazines. 

(1) The ESP will provide the following information on explosives storage magazines: 

(a) Type(s) of magazines used (e.g., Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) 

classification, portable, commercial, above ground, shed, earth covered, etc.). See DOD 

6055.9-STD for further information and definitions on the types of magazines to be used for 

explosives storage. 

(b) Net Explosive Weight (NEW) and hazard division to be stored in each magazine. 

Generally, recovered MEC is considered Hazard Division 1.1. See 6055.9-STD for further 

information and definitions on Hazard Divisions. 

(c) Q-D criteria used to site the magazine. 
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(d) Design criteria for any proposed engineering controls to be used to mitigate 

exposures to the public when Q-D criteria cannot be met. 

(2) Magazines must also be properly placarded, and the property must be secured. DOD 

magazines storing explosives must have the appropriate fire fighting symbol or locally 

required DOD Hazard Classification assigned. Additional details on how explosives must be 

stored and secured are published in EP 1110-1-18. 

d. Planned or Established Demolition Areas. The MSDs for these areas will be based 

on the MSD criteria for intentional detonations. 

e. Footprint Areas. The following footprint areas will be discussed in the ESP: blowin-place, collection points, and in-grid consolidated shots. These areas, however, do not have 

to be shown on the site map. The MSDs for these footprint areas are described in the 

following paragraphs. 

(1) Blow-in-Place. Blow-in-place is the preferred method for disposal of MEC. Blowin-place occurs when a MEC is prepared for detonation and detonated in-place. The MSD for 

blow-in-place areas will be determined using the MSD criteria for intentional detonations. 

(2) Collection Points. Collection points are areas where recovered MEC that is 

acceptable to move is temporarily accumulated within a search grid pending relocation to 

another area for storage or destruction. Collection points will be limited to the amount of 

explosives such that the K50 total of the rounds to be destroyed will not exceed the MSD. 

(The K value is the safety factor used in determining the MSD for unintentional detonations. 

See DOD 6055.9-STD for additional details on the establishment of K values.) The MSD for 

collection points will be determined using the MSD criteria for unintentional detonations. 

(3) In-Grid Consolidated Shots. In-grid consolidated shots occur when recovered MEC 

that is acceptable to be relocated is collected and destroyed within a search grid. In contrast 

to an established demolition ground, consolidated shots occur within a search grid rather than 

in a separate area. The procedures for in-grid consolidated shots are presented in the 

USAESCH document titled “Procedures for Demolition of Multiple Rounds (Consolidated 

Shots) on OE Sites.” 

f. Exceptions. The calculated MSDs for unintentional detonations specified above are 

considered minimums for execution of normal operations. When site conditions exist that 

make it impossible or impractical to comply with these minimums, the PM may request 

consideration of a possible reduction. Any request for a reduction of these MSDs will be 
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staffed through the MM CX for calculation. This information will be forwarded to the PM, 

who will forward it to the District Safety Office for a decision concerning the reduction of the 

exclusion area. For any requested reduction to the specified MSDs for unintentional 

detonations, a detailed hazard analysis, which explains why these reductions are necessary 

and acceptable, must be documented. 

3-5. Conventional ESS. 

a. ESS. 

(1) The purpose of the ESS is to ensure that all applicable DOD and DA regulations 

regarding safe and secure handling of military munitions are followed. 

(2) Intrusive activities cannot commence until the DDESB approves the ESS and the 

contractor has been directed to incorporate changes resulting from ESS approval into the 

MEC Support Work Plan. A copy of the approved ESS will be maintained at the project site. 

All operations will be executed in accordance with the approved ESS. 

(3) Detailed guidance on the preparation and approval process associated with the ESS 

may be found in EP 385-1-95b and DDESB’s “Memorandum Guidance for Clearance Plans.” 

b. Construction support involving removal of MEC in the construction footprint will 

require submittal and approval of an ESS. An ESS is not required for standby construction 

support or anomaly avoidance. The ESS will be tailored to meet site-specific requirements. 

c. When an element of the approved ESS changes, the ESS must be changed. The 

contractor shall prepare the proposed change and forward it to the PM, who will forward it to 

the MM CX for review. The MM CX will forward the proposed changes to the appropriate 

agency for approval. For a change that specifies less restrictive requirements (e.g., reduction 

in the exclusion zone), the contractor shall comply with the accepted ESS until the change is 

approved. When the proposed changes would result in more restrictive requirements (e.g., 

increase in the exclusion zone), the contractor shall apply the more restrictive measures 

immediately during the ESS change approval process. 

3-6. Personnel Qualifications and Work Standards. USACE has set forth personnel 

standards applicable to all UXO personnel working for USACE. These qualifications and 

standards, which detail the educational and experience requirements for UXO personnel, are 

available in EP 1110-1-18. 
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3-7. Training. USACE and contractor personnel shall be in compliance with training 

requirements prior to conducting MEC support activities. Training requirements are 

published in EP 1110-1-18. The training topics included in EP 1110-1-18 pertain to 29 CFR 

1910, 29 CFR 1926, Initial Training, Refresher Training, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation 

(CPR)/First Aid, Medical Surveillance, Visitor Training, and Blood Borne Pathogen training. 

Additional training information is contained in ER 385-1-95. 

3-8. Explosives Safety. There are no “safe” methods for dealing with MEC, merely 

procedures and process controls that are designed to reduce potential hazards. Maximum 

safety in conducting any MEC operations can be achieved through adherence to applicable 

safety precautions, a planned approach, intensive supervision, and MEC safety oversight. 

UXO-qualified personnel will conduct a site safety briefing prior to commencing operational 

activities each workday. All activities with potential exposure to MEC will be reviewed to 

identify the associated risks and appropriate mitigation procedures. Operations within areas 

suspected of containing MEC must be conducted in a manner that exposes a minimum 

number of people to the smallest quantity of explosives for the shortest period of time. 

a. General Safety Considerations. 

(1) General safety considerations applicable to personnel, both essential and nonessential, at project sites where MEC may be encountered include: 

(a) Do not carry fire or spark-producing devices. 

(b) Do not conduct explosive or explosive-related operations, without approved 

procedures, proper supervision, and MEC standby support. 

(c) Do not become careless by reason of familiarity with MEC or the reported 

probability level of MEC. 

(d) Do not conduct explosive or potentially explosive operations during inclement 

weather. 

(e) Avoid contact with MEC except during MEC removal conducted during 

construction activities. 

(f) Conduct MEC-related operations during daylight hours only. 

(g) Employ the “buddy system” at all times. 
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(2) EP 385-1-95a provides additional considerations for safety at project sites where 

MEC may be encountered. 

b. Activity Hazard Analysis. 

(1) Activity Hazard Analyses will be performed in accordance with EM 385-1-1. 

Activity Hazard Analyses will be conducted by personnel who are knowledgeable with 

respect to MEC safety standards and requirements. These personnel must understand the 

specific operational requirements and hazard analysis methodologies. A hazard analysis will 

be performed for each activity to determine the significance of any potential explosive-related 

hazards. For example, residual explosives from ordnance fillers may be exposed during an 

HTRW sampling activity. Explosive residues may be in the form of powder or various 

granular and powder-based pellets. These contaminants can enter the body through the skin 

or by ingestion if proper personal hygiene practices are not followed. Explosive fillers such 

as white phosphorus are dangerously reactive in air and acute exposure can result in serious 

injury to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. They are also a fire hazard. 

(2) Safety requirements (or alternatives) that will either eliminate the identified hazards 

or control them to reduce the associated risks to an acceptable level will be developed. The 

adequacy of the operational and support procedures that will be implemented to eliminate, 

control, or abate identified hazards or risks will then be evaluated and a second risk 

assessment completed to verify that a satisfactory safety level has been achieved. 

c. Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance. 

(1) Some ordnance items and other electro-explosive devices (EEDs) are particularly 

susceptible to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) in the radio frequency (RF) range originating 

from devices such as radio, radar, and television transmitters. The presence of antennas and 

communication and radar devices will be noted on initial site visits and/or preliminary 

assessments of eligibility. In addition, active and passive subsurface detection devices emit 

EMR/RF. Each type of equipment producing EMR/RF must be reviewed and a hazard 

analysis completed. The level of EMR/RF susceptibility and potential hazard is a result of the 

design and type of MEC or EED that may be present. Therefore, a knowledge of what MEC 

is normally unsafe in the presence of EMR/RF is important so that preventive steps can be 

taken if such MEC is encountered. The MM CX will be consulted when geophysical 

investigations are planned in areas potentially containing electric-fuzed ordnance. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 3-9 

(2) As part of the hazard analysis, the MSD between an EMR/RF emitting device and 

potential EEDs will be calculated. This calculation is based on the characteristics of the 

transmitting device and the potential EEDs. The important characteristics of the EMR/RF 

source device include: 

(a) The transmitter frequency (f, in MHz). 

(b) The peak envelope transmitting power (Pt, in W). 

(c) The transmitter gain (GdB). 

(3) Minimum safe distances from EMR/RF sources are listed in Tables 2-2, 2-3, and 2-4 

of TM 9-1375-213-12. 

3-9. PPE. 

a. All UXO team members will be trained in the use of, medically qualified for, and 

physically able to wear the prescribed PPE. PPE for MEC support operations will be 

determined by site-specific and task-specific analyses, documented in the APP/SSHP, and 

worn as indicated in the plans. Specific requirements for PPE are described in the following 

paragraphs. 

(1) PPE will comply with the most stringent requirements of EM 385-1-1 and the 

applicable portions of 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I or 29 CFR 1926 Subpart E. 

(2) Footwear. In addition to the applicable requirements in the references cited above, 

shoes or boots with high traction soles and ankle protection will be used. During geophysical 

detection activities, UXO personnel will not wear safety shoes or other footwear that would 

cause interference with instrument operations. 

(3) Clothing. Short sleeve shirts and long pants are considered the minimum clothing 

suitable for MEC operations and will be worn at all work sites, unless variations are 

described, analyzed, and documented in the accepted APP/SSHP. 

(4) Head Protection. Personnel working in or visiting designated hardhat areas will be 

required to wear head protection meeting ANSI Z89.1 standards. Hardhat areas for MEC 

operations will not be designated unless the activity hazard analysis shows a possible 

overhead hazard. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 3-10 

b. UXO personnel using PPE will be knowledgeable of the limitations of the selected 

PPE as well as the reduced performance levels the equipment might impose on them when 

they are conducting assigned tasks. 

3-10. Fire Prevention. 

a. Fire prevention awareness is especially important in areas with known or suspected 

MEC. Smoking will be permitted only in controlled areas where all combustibles (e.g., 

vegetation, fuel cans, sampling supplies) have been removed or sufficient firebreaks have 

been established. Personnel may attempt to extinguish minor fires with fire extinguishers if 

they are trained to do so safely without endangering themselves or others within the vicinity 

of the fire. 

b. If a fire becomes uncontrollable or extends into areas that may contain MEC, all 

personnel must immediately suspend any fire fighting efforts and retreat to a safe distance, 

which is at least the maximum fragment distance of the military munition with the greatest 

fragmentation distance (MGFD), (i.e., the military munition with the greatest fragmentation 

distance that might be recovered as a result of previous training activities based on historical 

information). Personnel will retreat upwind of the fire. The senior UXO-qualified person 

present will then lead an immediate evacuation of the area using available resources to ensure 

the safety of all personnel. 

3-11. Emergency Procedures. MEC operations may result in accidents or incidents, regardless 

of the safeguards implemented. The APP/SSHP will describe site-specific emergency 

response procedures, including identification of all appropriate POCs. All personnel must be 

briefed on the emergency response procedures and protocols discussed in the APP/SSHP. 

a. Contingency Plan. A contingency plan will be developed if anomaly avoidance is 

going to be conducted, to detail the procedures that will be used in the event that munitions 

with unknown fillers and/or Recovered Chemical Warfare Materiel (RCWM), unusual odors, 

or discolored soil are encountered. The contingency plan will be initiated if munitions with 

unknown fillers and/or RCWM, unusual odors, or discolored soil is encountered or site 

personnel exhibit symptoms attributable to a chemical exposure (i.e., respiratory irritation 

and/or skin irritation). 

b. Emergency Response. In the event of a MEC-related emergency on-site during 

anomaly avoidance, the senior UXO-qualified person present will direct the course of action 

until the local POC designated in the Work Plan has been notified. In the event of a MEC-
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01 Aug 04 

 3-11 

related emergency on-site during construction support, the Senior UXO Supervisor (SUXOS) 

will direct the course of action until the local POC designated in the Work Plan has been 

notified. It may be necessary for other on-site personnel to provide assistance. If an 

emergency response rescue operation is required, no one will reenter the accident area until 

the hazards of the situation have been assessed by the responsible individual (see above), and 

all required resources are on-hand to complete the rescue without jeopardizing the safety of 

rescue personnel. 

c. Emergency Rescue. The senior UXO-qualified person or the local POC, as 

applicable, will direct any MEC-related emergency response rescue operation. Response 

considerations include the following elements: 

(1) Designation of an emergency response vehicle(s) to remain on-site during rescue 

operations. 

(2) Determination of existing hazards, as well as the potential for additional hazards. 

(3) Notification of local officials. 

(4) Coordination with USACE in the review of the need to alert the local community 

and/or subsequent coordination with installation or other customer’s Public Affairs Office. 

(5) Assessment of the situation and condition of any victims. 

(6) Determination of the resources needed for victim stabilization and transport and 

additional emergency support. 

(7) Enforcement of the “buddy system”. No one will be permitted to enter a rescue area 

alone. 

(8) Oversight of the removal of injured personnel from the area. 

(9) Consultation with on-site safety officers to establish decontamination protocols. 

Decontamination of injured parties will be accomplished after stabilization of their medical 

conditions. Decontamination need not be accomplished if the victim’s condition is poor and 

if the decontamination process may cause an immediate threat or additional injury to the 

victim. If contamination is suspected, the victim will be wrapped in material that will prevent 

the spread of contamination during extraction and transport. Emergency medical personnel 

will be advised of potential injuries, as well as potential contamination, of the patient as early 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 3-12 

as possible. The patient will not be transported to a medical facility without prior notification 

of, and coordination with, the receiving facility regarding potential contamination. 

d. Mishap Reporting and Investigation Requirements. The following information 

provides guidelines to be followed for reporting explosive mishaps on MEC support projects. 

Site-specific reporting and investigation procedures, including identification of appropriate 

POCs, will be included in the APP/SSHP. 

(1) Reporting Requirements. All mishaps shall be investigated by the contractor and 

reported to the Contracting Officer and OE Safety Specialist or to the government authority 

cited in the SOW. Notification and reporting of mishaps will be in accordance with USACE 

Supplement 1 to AR 385-40 and EM 385-1-1. Any mishap will be reported on ENG Form 

3394, Accident Investigation Report. 

(a) For anomaly avoidance and standby support projects on Formerly Used Defense 

Sites (FUDS), the senior UXO-qualified person on-site is responsible for mishap reporting. 

For subsurface removal projects in support of construction activities at FUDS, the contractor’s 

UXO Safety Officer (UXOSO) is responsible for mishap reporting. For contracts under the 

supervision of the district, mishaps will be reported to the district safety office. An 

information copy of the accident report will be forwarded to the MM CX. USACE district 

personnel will report through command channels to the HQUSACE Safety and Occupational 

Health Office. 

(b) On active installations, the installation safety officer is responsible for reporting any 

explosive mishaps. 

(c) RCWM Incidents. Chemical event reports are required to be submitted in 

accordance with AR 50-6. Reporting requirements are identified in EP 75-1-3. A sitespecific POC will be identified and documented in accordance with the reporting 

requirements listed above. 

(2) Investigation Requirements. In the event of a mishap, the contractor shall 

implement emergency procedures and secure the scene to keep unauthorized persons away for 

their protection and to preserve the evidence for the subsequent mishap investigation. On 

active installations, the U.S. Army Safety Center (USASC) maintains the prerogative to 

investigate Class A or Class B explosive mishaps (as defined in AR 385-40). If USASC 

chooses to investigate, it is the lead agency. If USASC chooses not to investigate, then the 

district is the lead agency. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 3-13 

3-12. Hazardous Waste Manifest. 

a A hazardous waste manifest (EPA Form 8700-22) is required when transporting 

MEC over pubic roads. Information guidance on the hazardous waste manifest is provided in 

49 CFR 172.205 and 40 CFR 262.20. 

b Government personnel who are tasked to certify MEC on hazardous waste manifests 

will be trained in accordance with the requirements of DOD 4500.0-R, Defense 

Transportation Regulation, Part II, Cargo Movement, Chapter 204, Paragraph D.1.b. or D.1.e. 

c The MM CX is available to assist with the proper identification of MEC on the 

hazardous waste manifest. In addition to the MM CX, the following personnel, based on their 

knowledge and training, may assist with proper identification; any USACE OE Safety 

Specialist, contractor UXO Technician, or Military EOD Technician. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-1 

CHAPTER 4 

Geophysical Detection Equipment 

4-1. Introduction. This chapter presents an overview of available geophysical detection 

systems, their capabilities and limitations. There are many techniques beyond those 

mentioned in this chapter that have application to the detection of surface MEC and 

subsurface anomalies. No single detection system can effectively detect all types of military 

munitions at all locations and depths. 

4-2. Factors to Consider. 

a. When selecting a geophysical survey instrument for the detection of subsurface 

anomalies, it is necessary to consider the maximum possible depth of MEC. If MEC is 

intentionally buried, the factors affecting burial depth may include the type of soil, 

mechanical versus hand excavation, depth of the water table, etc. If the military munition was 

fired or dropped, then the depth of penetration can be estimated by considering the soil type, 

military munition type and weight, and impact velocity. There are many cases where UXO 

can penetrate deeper than geophysical instruments can currently reliably detect. On such 

sites, it is possible that undetected UXO remains deeper than it can be detected from the 

existing ground surface. 

b. Geophysical detection equipment used to locate subsurface MEC for avoidance or 

removal is seldom 100 percent effective. In many cases, military munitions may simply be 

located too deep, may be too small to be detected, or may be constructed of a material 

difficult to detect. Since the total number of subsurface MEC at a site is almost never known, 

complete detection cannot be documented. In addition, most commonly used geophysical 

survey systems will not detect subsurface bulk explosives. These factors must be considered 

when designing and implementing MEC support. If subsurface bulk explosives are 

anticipated based on archival data, then special avoidance techniques must be developed and 

increased safety precautions employed. Contact the MM CX for additional information. The 

limitations of detection capabilities must be conveyed to all on-site personnel so that there is a 

common understanding of expectations. 

c. Data collection capability typically depends on the complexity and type of the 

geophysical instrument used. For instance, most handheld magnetometers cannot record the 

data produced. However, more complex systems are capable of collecting the data for 

downloading and processing. Requiring an instrument with the capacity to collect data is 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-2 

activity-dependent. Anomaly avoidance procedures generally do not require data collection. 

However, removal operations in support of construction activities generally require the area to 

be mapped and, therefore, require instruments that are capable of downloading information. 

4-3. Types of Instrumentation. The most successful geophysical detection systems for MEC 

rely on one of two technologies, magnetometry or electromagnetics. Magnetometers are 

limited to detecting ferrous items. Electromagnetic detectors can detect any conductive metal. 

a. Magnetometry. 

(1) Magnetometers were one of the first tools used for locating buried military 

munitions and remain one of the best. Most bombs and gun shells contain iron that causes a 

disturbance in the earth’s geomagnetic field. A magnetic survey measures differences from 

the earth’s normal magnetic field that can be attributed to the presence of ferrous objects. 

Some magnetometers, which are called gradiometers, use two magnetic sensors configured to 

measure the difference over a fixed distance of the magnetic field (gradient), rather than the 

absolute magnetic field. Magnetometers are extremely sensitive and capable of identifying 

small anomalies. They respond only to ferro-magnetic metals. In addition, magnetometers 

are sensitive to iron-bearing minerals contained in soils and rock. 

(2) Magnetometry will not detect subsurface bulk explosives. If subsurface bulk 

explosives are anticipated based on the site’s history, increased safety precautions and special 

techniques will be employed. Contact the MM CX for additional information. 

(3) Two types of magnetometers and gradiometers are most often used to detect buried 

military munitions, fluxgate magnetometers and optically pumped magnetometers. 

(a) Fluxgate Magnetometers. Fluxgate magnetometers measure the magnetic field 

component along the axis of the core of the fluxgate. They are inexpensive, reliable, rugged, 

and have low energy consumption. Fluxgate magnetometers have long been a standard tool 

of EOD teams, used for a quick, inexpensive field reconnaissance of a site containing ferrous 

military munitions. However, most fluxgate magnetometers provide analog rather than digital 

output, which makes it difficult to apply computer enhancement techniques. Fluxgate 

magnetometers are the instruments typically used for downhole geophysics for anomaly 

avoidance. 

(b) Optically Pumped Magnetometers. Optically pumped magnetometers (traditionally 

cesium-vapor or potassium-vapor magnetometers) measure the local absolute total magnetic 

field. They utilize digital technology and are more expensive to purchase than fluxgate 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-3 

instruments. However, their high sensitivity, speed of operation, and high quality digital 

signal output make them a good choice for situations where data or digital post-processing is 

required. 

b. Electromagnetic Detectors. 

(1) Electromagnetic induction geophysical instruments are also extensively used to 

detect buried military munitions. They differ from magnetometers in that they are not limited 

to detecting ferrous items; they can detect any conductive metal. In addition, electromagnetic 

detectors are not affected by most of the iron-bearing rocks and soil that adversely affect 

magnetometers. 

(2) There are numerous types of conductivity meters available. However, two types are 

most commonly used in the search for military munitions- frequency-domain 

electromagnetics and time-domain electromagnetic conductivity. 

(a) Frequency-Domain Electromagnetics. Frequency-domain electromagnetic (FDEM) 

instruments can be useful to detect large buried caches of military munitions and detecting 

disturbed earth associated with pits and trenches. In addition, some types of FDEM 

instruments are the best geophysical tools available for detecting very small, very close 

objects such as the metal firing pins in plastic land mines buried just beneath the ground 

surface. However, since the resolution ability decreases dramatically with depth, frequencydomain conductivity meters are not optimum for detecting individual, deeply buried military 

munitions. Most commercial coin detectors are frequency-domain conductivity meters. 

(b) Time-Domain Conductivity Electromagnetics. Time-domain conductivity 

electromagnetic (TDEM) instruments provide an excellent compromise between detection 

depth and resolution. These instruments provide a capability to locate all types of metallic 

military munitions and will see typical intact military munitions to depths of between 1 to 2 

meters depending upon site-specific conditions. 

4-4. Geophysical Investigation Performance. 

a. General. The performance of military munitions detection instruments varies as a 

result of different site characteristics such as soil type, moisture content, depth to 

groundwater, vegetation, and type of military munition. Environmental and military 

munitions factors affecting the performance of detection instruments are so numerous that a 

prove-out of potential detection instruments for removal operations will be performed on the 

site to determine which instrument performs the best. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-4 

b. Data Quality Objectives/Performance Goals. Geophysical investigation data quality 

objectives and performance goals will be included in the contractor’s SOW. The contractor 

may propose and document alternative objectives and goals for the Contracting Officer’s 

consideration. 

c. Horizontal Accuracy. Horizontally, 95 percent of all reacquired anomaly locations 

must lie within a 1 meter radius of their original surface location as marked on the dig sheet. 

Horizontally, 95 percent of all excavated items must lie within a 35-centimeter radius of their 

mapped surface location as marked in the field after reacquisition. 

d. False Positives. If there are more than 15 percent "false positives" (anomalies 

reacquired by the contractor that result in no detectable metallic material recovered during 

excavations, calculated as a running average for the sector), a re-evaluation of the data, 

detection methods being utilized, and overall project QC will be performed at no cost to the 

government. A written response explaining the reason for the excessive false positive results 

and a Corrective Action Plan, if appropriate, will be submitted to the Contracting Officer 

within 10 days of identification of the situation. 

4-5. Geophysical Prove-Out (GPO). Before geophysical surveys for buried military 

munitions can begin on a site, the proposed survey methods and techniques must be tested and 

evaluated. The purpose of the GPO is to demonstrate and document the site-specific 

capabilities of the proposed survey platform, sensors, navigation equipment, data analysis, 

data management and associated equipment and personnel to operate as an integrated system 

capable of meeting data quality objectives necessary to achieve project performance goals. 

The results of the GPO will identify realistic capabilities and limitations of applying 

geophysics at a particular site and aid in determining proper post-processing procedures for 

the geophysical data. Additionally, a prove-out demonstration offers the client an opportunity 

to observe the contractor’s methods and to evaluate the contractor’s ability to meet data 

quality objectives and compliance with project requirements. A prove-out must be 

constructed so that it is representative of the project site and the specific buried military 

munition items known or suspected to exist. The objective of the GPO is mainly to establish 

and maintain high levels of QC throughout this phase of the project. EM 1110-1-4009 

provides a detailed list of general objectives for a GPO. The specific project objectives will 

be described in the GPO Work Plan. A GPO is needed for removal actions, but is not 

required for anomaly avoidance. Only a daily geophysical instrument function test is required 

for anomaly avoidance. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-5 

4-6. Equipment Standardization and QC Tests. Geophysical instruments have a number of 

standardization tests that need to be performed in order to ensure that they are functioning 

properly. For this discussion we will focus on the EM61 and GEM-3 (trade names of specific 

geophysical survey instruments) to identify some specific tests to be conducted. 

a. Out-of-Box Equipment Tests. Past experience has shown that, too often, nonfunctioning equipment arrives at the site, causing delays in surveying, producing unreliable 

data, and increasing false alarms or missing buried military munitions. For this reason, the 

following out-of-box equipment tests are mandated to ensure that all instruments are 

operating correctly: 

(1) Inventory and inspect all components. 

(2) Assemble the instrument and power up. 

(3) Test the instrument’s cable connectors for shorts using the cable shake test. 

(4) Null instrument (Electromagnetic (EM) only). The EM instrument will be nulled 

prior to conducting the following tests. Standard EM61 backpacks are provided with 

potentiometers for the top and bottom coils, which can be adjusted to null (zero) the 

instrument. 

(a) Static Test. Establish an area for these tests that offers convenient access, is free of 

metal (surface and subsurface), and is sufficiently far from roads and power lines, 

transmitters, etc., to avoid these sources of noise. This same point may be used throughout 

the duration of the project for the daily static (background) test and response tests and for 

nulling instruments. Collect readings for a minimum of 3 minutes after instrument warm-up. 

Data collected during static tests will be retained for documentation. 

(b) Instrument Response Test. The Instrument Response Test quantifies the response of 

the instrument to a standard test item. A steel trailer ball is a preferred test item that is easily 

acquired and transported. Leaving the instrument in the same position as used in the Static 

Test, place the test item below the sensor, then collect data for a minimum 3-minute period. 

The test will document the amplitude of response to the test item and instrument drift. To 

pass the Instrument Response Test, the value of the response must vary less than 20 percent 

from test to test. 

b. Initial Geophysical Instrument Checks. Initial geophysical instrument checks will 

be performed on the first day of the survey. These tests include the following: 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-6 

(1) Six-Line Test. This test is used for all geophysical instruments. Use an area that has 

little background noise and no sources of anomalous responses. The test line will be well 

marked to facilitate data collection over the exact same line each time the test is performed. 

Background response over the test line is established in Lines 1 and 2. A standard test item, 

such as a steel trailer hitch ball, will be used for Lines 3 through 6. Heading effects, 

repeatability of response amplitude, positional accuracy, and latency are evaluated in Lines 3 

through 6. For anomaly avoidance, a test similar to a six-line test would be used in lieu of a 

prove-out. 

(2) Azimuthal Test and Octant Test. These tests, applicable to magnetic instruments 

only, are performed to document the differences in readings based on orientation. 

(3) Height Optimization Test. This test is applied to magnetic instruments, as well as 

for the GEM-3 instrument, and the EM61 used in harness or “litter” mode. A line is 

established with at least one test object along its length. Data is collected with the instrument 

using a minimum of three different sensor heights. The goal is to optimize the target signalto-noise ratio and maintain adequate sensitivity. 

(4) Pull-Away Test. This test demonstrates the effects of navigational equipment and/or 

vehicles used to tow sensors or arrays. 

c. Daily Instrument Checks. Data collected in these tests must be closely examined 

each morning, before starting the collection of survey data. These tests will be performed for 

both removals and anomaly avoidance procedures. 

(1) Cable Shake Test. 

(2) Null instrument (EM only). 

(3) Static Test: This test will be performed twice daily in the same location, prior to 

data collection, and at the end of the day. Data will be recorded during a minimum 3-minute 

duration static test to demonstrate stability of readings. 

(4) Instrument Response Test: Following the static test, a standard test item will be 

placed below the sensor, and readings recorded for at least 3 minutes. Instrument response of 

equal amplitude from test to test demonstrates that the calibration of the instrument has not 

changed. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

4-7 

(5) Personnel Test: The instrument operator moves around the stationary, operating 

instrument to scan for any effects of metal remaining on his or her person. 

4-7. Maintenance. Preventive maintenance will be performed on a regularly scheduled basis 

in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions. If an equipment problem is encountered, 

maintenance will be performed as soon as possible and records of the unscheduled 

maintenance and corrective action will be maintained and will indicate equipment 

identification, problem description, corrective action, the person performing the maintenance, 

and associated costs. Equipment Standardization and QC Tests will be performed and the test 

results reviewed and accepted by the site or project geophysicist prior to the use of all 

repaired or new equipment received at the site. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 5-1 

CHAPTER 5 

Anomaly Avoidance Procedures During HTRW Investigation/Design Activities 

5-1. Introduction. 

a. This chapter discusses anomaly avoidance procedures during the 

investigative/design phase of any project on a site with known or suspected MEC. USACE 

implements anomaly avoidance procedures primarily on HTRW sites where there is the 

potential to encounter MEC. HTRW-related activities during the investigative/design phase 

which have the potential for encountering MEC include, but are not limited to, surveying and 

mapping, environmental and natural resource assessments, surface and subsurface sampling, 

boring and drilling, and groundwater monitoring. 

b. The purpose of anomaly avoidance during HTRW-related activities is to avoid any 

potential surface MEC and subsurface anomalies during sampling activities. Intrusive 

anomaly investigation is not authorized during anomaly avoidance operations. Procedures for 

dealing with explosives-contaminated soils are addressed in paragraph 1-1d of this pamphlet. 

5-2. UXO Team Composition. For anomaly avoidance on an HTRW site with known or 

suspected MEC, the contractor shall provide a UXO team consisting of a minimum of two 

personnel, one of whom must be a UXO Technician II. This individual will be the UXO team 

leader. The UXO team must be on-site during all sampling activities. The UXO team may 

include additional UXO-qualified personnel, geophysicists, or any other team member, 

depending on site- and task-specific conditions/requirements. Contact the MM CX for a 

description of the current qualifications for contractor UXO personnel. 

5-3. Planning. The MEC contractor shall prepare a Work Plan to supplement the HTRW 

contractor’s or USACE’s Work Plan/Site Plan, as described in Chapter 3. 

5-4. Responsibilities. The UXO team members have the following responsibilities for 

anomaly avoidance procedures during an HTRW investigation project on a site with known or 

suspected MEC: 

a. Provide the MEC recognition, location, and safety functions for the HTRW 

contractor during HTRW sampling activities. 

b. Conduct MEC safety briefings for all site personnel and visitors. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

5-2 

c. Obtain utility clearance and/or excavation permits for underground utilities, if 

required, before the UXO team begins any incremental subsurface geophysical survey 

activities. The UXO team is responsible for verifying that all necessary excavation permits 

are on-site prior to commencing operations. The prime contractor is responsible for 

contacting the appropriate agency(ies) or company(ies) to mark the location of all subsurface 

utilities in the construction area. All located utilities will be marked by paint, pin flags, or 

other appropriate means to visually delineate their approximate subsurface routing. The color 

used for marking will not conflict with the colors used in MEC operations. If subsurface 

utilities are suspected to be present in an excavation area, the UXO team must attempt to 

verify their location. 

5-5. Authority. The senior UXO-qualified person has final on-site authority on MEC 

procedures and safety issues.

5-6. Access Surveys. The UXO team must conduct a surface access survey and a subsurface 

survey for anomalies before any type of activities commence, including foot and vehicular 

traffic. 

a. HTRW sampling personnel must be escorted by UXO-qualified personnel at all 

times in areas potentially containing MEC until the UXO team has completed the access 

surveys and the cleared areas have been marked. Escorted HTRW personnel will follow 

behind the UXO escort. If anomalies or MEC are detected, the UXO escort will halt escorted 

personnel in place, select a course around the item, and instruct escorted personnel to follow. 

b. The UXO team will conduct an access survey of the footpath and/or vehicular lanes 

approaching and leaving HTRW sampling areas with known or suspected MEC. Typically, 

the access route will be at least twice as wide as the widest vehicle that will use the route. 

c. The UXO team must also complete an access survey of an area around the proposed 

investigation site that is large enough to support all planned operations. The size of the 

surveyed area will be site-specific and will take into account, for example, maneuverability of 

required equipment (e.g., drill rigs, excavation equipment, etc.), parking of support vehicles, 

and establishment of decontamination stations. As a minimum, the surveyed area will have a 

dimension in all directions equal to twice the length of the longest vehicle or piece of 

equipment to be brought on-site. 

d. Geophysical instrumentation capable of detecting the smallest known or anticipated 

military munition will be used to locate anomalies just below the surface that may be 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 5-3 

encountered through erosion from rain or continual vehicular traffic. The various types of 

geophysical detection instruments are discussed in Chapter 4. 

e. If anomalies or surface MEC are encountered, they will be marked with flagging and 

the investigation area will be relocated to avoid contact. The UXO team will clearly mark the 

boundaries of the surveyed area using survey flagging and pin flags. The UXO team will 

establish a system of flagging colors that will distinguish anomalies, surface MEC, and route 

boundaries from each other as well as from any utility markings that have been used at the 

site. 

f. If surface MEC is encountered, the UXO team will assess the condition of the MEC 

to determine if a disposal action is required. MEC disposition will follow the procedures 

discussed in paragraph 5-13. 

g. No personnel will be allowed outside the surveyed areas. 

5-7. Surface Soil Sampling. Surface soil samples are normally collected at depths from zero 

to 6 inches below ground surface. The following paragraphs describe anomaly avoidance 

procedures for soil sampling between zero and 6 inches below ground surface on an HTRW 

site with known or suspected MEC. Soil sampling at depths greater than 6 inches below 

ground surface on an HTRW site with known or suspected MEC will follow the procedures 

discussed in paragraph 5-10. 

a. The UXO team must conduct an access survey of the routes to and from the 

proposed investigation site as well as an area around the investigation site, as described in 

paragraph 5-6. 

b. The UXO team must visually survey the surface of each proposed surface soil 

sampling site for any indication of MEC or MC impact. In addition, the UXO team must 

conduct a survey of the proposed sampling locations using geophysical instruments capable of 

detecting the smallest known or anticipated military munition to a depth of 1 foot. The 

various types of geophysical detection instruments are discussed in Chapter 4. 

c. If anomalies are detected at a proposed sampling location or too many anomalies are 

detected in a general area of interest, the HTRW personnel will select an alternate location for 

collection of surface soil samples. Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with 

survey flagging or pin flags for avoidance during HTRW sampling activities. 
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5-8. Passive Soil Gas Sampling. Passive soil gas sampling typically involves excavation of 

holes (1-inch to 11⁄2-inches in diameter) to a depth of less than 5 feet and the installation and 

subsequent removal of sampling devices (typically 24-inch-long by 1⁄2-inch-inside-diameter 

tubes). The following paragraphs describe anomaly avoidance procedures for passive soil gas 

sampling on an HTRW site with known or suspected MEC. 

a. The UXO team must conduct an access survey of the routes to and from the 

proposed investigation site as well as an area around the investigation site, as described in 

paragraph 5-6. 

b. The UXO team must visually survey the surface of the proposed passive soil gas 

sampling sites for any indication of MEC or MC impact. In addition, the UXO team must 

conduct a survey of the proposed sampling locations using geophysical instruments capable of 

detecting the smallest known or anticipated military munition to the specified emplacement 

depth for the sampling canister. 

c. Utilities will be cleared and dig permits will be obtained in accordance with the 

procedures outlined in paragraph 5-4c. 

d. If the emplacement depth is greater than the geophysical instrument’s detection 

capabilities, then the UXO team must incrementally complete the geophysical survey every 

12 inches while excavating for emplacement of the sampling canisters. While the UXO team 

is completing their geophysical survey remaining project personnel must withdraw out of the 

immediate area. 

e. If anomalies are detected at a proposed sampling location or too many anomalies are 

detected in a general area of interest, the HTRW personnel will select an alternate location for 

collection of passive soil gas samples. If an anomaly is detected during an incremental 

geophysical survey, the hole will be backfilled in accordance with site-specific procedures. 

Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with survey flagging or pin flags for 

avoidance. 

f. Unless a path is clearly marked, the HTRW sampling personnel must be escorted by 

a UXO-qualified person when they subsequently return to each soil gas sampling site to 

retrieve the sampling canisters. 

5-9. Active Soil Gas Sampling and Direct Push Technology (DPT). Active soil gas sampling 

typically involves manual or mechanical penetration at the desired location followed by 

withdrawal and collection of a soil gas sample. DPT is a common method for mechanical 
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penetration during active soil gas sampling. The following paragraphs describe anomaly 

avoidance procedures for active soil gas sampling and use of DPT on an HTRW site with 

known or suspected MEC. 

a. The UXO team must conduct an access survey of the routes to and from the 

proposed investigation site as well as an area around the investigation site, as described in 

paragraph 5-6. 

b. Active soil gas sampling and DPT installations will follow the same anomaly 

avoidance procedures outlined below for soil boring and monitoring well installations. The 

actual sampling will occur through the pilot hole or a boring located within a 2-foot radius of 

the pilot hole installed by the UXO team. If the pilot hole cannot be used to obtain a 

representative soil gas sample, it must be backfilled in accordance with site-specific 

procedures prior to the installation and sampling of the soil gas sampling point. The 

backfilling of the pilot hole will be performed to prevent the soil gas sampling from being 

diluted by atmospheric air that may be drawn in through the pilot hole. Following collection 

of the soil gas sample, the sampling location must be backfilled in accordance with sitespecific procedures. 

5-10. Subsurface Soil Sampling and Monitoring Well Installation. Subsurface soil sampling is 

defined as the collection of samples below a nominal depth of approximately 6 inches by 

means of a split-spoon, Shelby tube, or bucket auger soil sampler using drilling techniques. 

Drilling techniques are also used to install groundwater monitoring wells for HTRW 

investigative sampling. The following paragraphs describe anomaly avoidance procedures for 

subsurface soil sampling and monitoring well installations on an HTRW site with known or 

suspected MEC. 

a. The UXO team must conduct an access survey of the routes to and from the 

proposed investigation site as well as an area around the investigation site, as described in 

paragraph 5-6. 

b. Utilities will be cleared and dig permits will be obtained in accordance with the 

procedure outlined in paragraph 5-4c. 

c. The UXO team must complete a subsurface geophysical survey of the proposed drill 

hole location(s). If an anomaly is detected, HTRW sampling personnel must select a new drill 

hole location. Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with survey flagging or 

pin flags for avoidance. If the subsurface sampling or well installation depth is greater than 
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5-6 

the geophysical instrument’s detection capabilities, the UXO team must incrementally 

complete the geophysical survey as outlined below. 

(1) Pilot Hole/Incremental Geophysical Survey. Once an access survey has been 

completed, the UXO team will install a pilot hole at each proposed drill hole location. While 

the UXO team is completing their geophysical survey remaining project personnel must 

withdraw out of the immediate area. 

(a) If an anomaly is detected, the pilot hole will be backfilled in accordance with sitespecific procedures and HTRW sampling personnel must select a new drill hole location. 

Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with survey flagging or pin flags for 

avoidance. 

(b) As long as no anomalies are detected, the pilot hole will be advanced to the 

maximum reach of the auger or to the maximum depth of the proposed drill hole, whichever is 

less. During the excavation of the pilot hole the drill rig’s auger will be withdrawn and the 

hole checked for anomalies every 12 inches. The pilot hole will also be inspected upon 

reaching the final depth, providing a total clearance depth equal to the pilot hole depth plus 12 

inches. If no anomalies are detected to the total depth of the proposed drill hole, the drill rig 

may be brought on-site and utilized. 

(c) In cases where the pilot hole does not reach the full depth of the proposed boring 

(e.g., the proposed depth of the drill hole is more than the maximum depth of the auger, or the 

UXO team cannot penetrate the soils using the auger), the drill rig may be brought on-site and 

advanced in 12-inch increments beyond the clearance depth of the pilot hole. At the end of 

each 12-inch increment, the drill rig’s auger must be withdrawn from the hole so that the 

UXO team may screen for anomalies as described above. As necessary with loose soils, a 

polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe (minimum 3 inches inner diameter) will be inserted to keep the 

hole open and to allow for incremental geophysical screening. 

(d) When working in impact areas, the UXO team may discontinue incremental 

screening once the drilling has extended to depths of 30 feet below ground surface, the depth 

of penetration of the MEC has been exceeded, or the planned depth of drilling has been 

reached, whichever is less. 

(e) For all other areas, incremental screening will be determined based on an assessment 

of the site’s characteristics and history. 
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(2) Monitoring of Drilling by Others. Once the UXO team determines that a proposed 

drill hole location is free of anomalies, using the procedures described above, the drilling 

contractor shall be notified that the site is available for subsurface sampling or monitoring 

well installation. 

(a) The drilling contractor’s actual drill hole must be located within a 2-foot radius of 

the pilot hole installed by the UXO team. While this proximity to the pilot hole may affect 

the accuracy of “blow counts” for the HTRW team, anomaly avoidance takes precedence. 

(b) Any drilling beyond the clearance depth of the pilot hole will be conducted in 12-

inch increments to allow the UXO team to screen for anomalies. In order to avoid magnetic 

interference from the augers, the drill rig must withdraw its augers from the hole for the 

geophysical survey. As necessary with loose soils, a PVC pipe (minimum 3 inches inner 

diameter) may be inserted to keep the hole open and to allow for incremental geophysical 

screening. Drilling equipment and/or metallic support materials (e.g., drill rig, augers, drill 

rods, casings, etc.) may create an interference affecting the operation of the geophysical 

survey instrument during the incremental inspection process. In such an event, the item(s) 

creating the interference must be relocated outside the interference range of the geophysical 

instrument during each incremental inspection of the drill hole. If an anomaly is detected, the 

drill hole will be backfilled in accordance with site-specific procedures and HTRW sampling 

personnel must select a new drill hole location. 

(c) When working in impact areas, the UXO team may discontinue incremental 

screening once the drilling has extended to a depth of 30 feet below ground surface, the depth 

of penetration of the MEC has been exceeded, or the planned depth of drilling has been 

reached, whichever is less. 

(d) For all other areas, incremental screening will be determined based on an assessment 

of the site’s characteristics and history. 

5-11. Test Pit and Trench Excavations. Test pits and trench excavations are used to identify 

and characterize large subsurface HTRW areas of concern. The following paragraphs 

describe anomaly avoidance procedures for test pit and trench excavations on an HTRW site 

with known or suspected MEC. 

a. The UXO team must conduct an access survey of the routes to and from the 

proposed investigation site as well as an area around the investigation site as described in 

paragraph 5-6. 
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5-8 

b. The UXO team must complete a subsurface geophysical survey of the proposed 

excavation locations. If an anomaly is detected, HTRW sampling personnel must select a 

new excavation location. Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with survey 

flagging or pin flags for avoidance. If the proposed excavation depth is greater than the 

geophysical instrument’s detection capabilities, the UXO team must incrementally complete 

the geophysical survey as outlined below. 

(1) Underground Utilities. The procedures outlined in paragraph 5-4c will be followed. 

(2) Excavation Procedures. Once an access survey has been completed, HTRW 

personnel may begin excavation in 1-foot increments. While the UXO team is completing 

their geophysical survey remaining project personnel must withdraw out of the immediate 

area. 

(a) At the end of each 1-foot increment, the UXO team will screen for anomalies. If an 

anomaly is detected, HTRW sampling personnel must modify the excavation location to avoid 

the anomaly. Any anomalies detected will be prominently marked with survey flagging or pin 

flags for avoidance. 

(b) If MEC is uncovered in an excavation, all operations will cease. The UXO team 

will assess the condition of the MEC to determine if disposal action is required. MEC 

disposition will follow the procedures discussed in paragraph 5-13. Once MEC has been 

encountered in an excavation, no further excavation is allowed at that location until EOD has 

removed the MEC. Once the MEC is removed, excavation using anomaly avoidance 

techniques may continue. If munitions with unknown fillers are discovered refer to the 

procedures identified in Chapter 7. The After Action Report will indicate that MEC was 

encountered and summarize the resulting activities. 

c. Waste and/or Other Materials Encountered. In the event that potentially hazardous 

waste, debris, or drums are encountered during test pit or trenching operations, excavation 

activities will cease. The HTRW Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) will assess the 

situation and may direct a change to the PPE for site workers. The SSHO will notify the 

appropriate personnel in accordance with the site-specific Work Plan. Wastes will be handled 

in accordance with the site-specific IDW Management Plan. 

5-12. Groundwater Monitoring/Aquifer Characterization. Groundwater monitoring activities 

include measurement of groundwater elevations, measurement of free product thickness, and 

collection of analytical samples. Groundwater monitoring wells may also be used for aquifer 
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characterization activities (e.g., slug tests). Unless a path is clearly marked, the HTRW 

sampling personnel must be escorted by UXO-qualified personnel, as described in paragraph 

5-6a, when they subsequently return to conduct groundwater monitoring/aquifer 

characterization activities. 

5-13. MEC Disposition. Since the purpose of MEC support during HTRW activities is 

anomaly avoidance, the UXO team is not tasked to perform MEC disposition. MEC 

disposition will not be covered in the planning documents for the project, and, therefore, the 

UXO team is not capable of or equipped to perform MEC disposition. In the event that MEC 

is encountered that cannot be avoided or, based on its fuzing or current condition, presents an 

imminent hazard requiring immediate attention, the UXO team will notify the local POC 

designated in the Work Plan. The UXO team will not destroy any of the MEC encountered. 

The local POC will notify the appropriate authority of the MEC discovery and the UXO team 

will safeguard the site pending arrival of the appropriate authority. 

a. On active installations, MEC disposition requests will normally require reporting to 

the Range Control Officer, Facility Engineer, Post Headquarters, or POC designated in the 

Work Plan. 

b. On FUDS, the local POC will facilitate the EOD response. If the local POC 

designated in the Work Plan is not the local law enforcement agency, the local POC will 

inform the local law enforcement agency of the discovery. The local POC will also contact 

the MM CX. 

5-14. Quality Management. HTRW Design Districts will include anomaly avoidance 

capability in all applicable indefinite delivery order contracts for HTRW reports, designs, or 

remedial actions on FUDS or active military sites. MEC concerns must be addressed before 

initiating any HTRW field investigation activities. Prior to initiation of on-site activities, 

items developed for MEC support of HTRW activities (i.e., SOW and Work Plan) must be 

submitted to the appropriate MM DC and the MM CX for review in accordance with the roles 

and responsibilities set forth in Chapter 1. The executing district is responsible for 

supervising the fieldwork and ensuring compliance with all approved plans by all USACE and 

contractor personnel. The MM CX may also conduct random inspections to verify 

conformance. A separate on-site, full-time UXO Quality Control Specialist (UXOQCS) is not 

required for MEC avoidance activities. However, the MEC support contractor shall perform 

QC reviews of its MEC-related field activities. Upon completion of the MEC support 

activities, the PM will ensure that an After Action Report is submitted to the MM CX. 
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CHAPTER 6 

MEC Support during Construction Activities 

6-1. Introduction. 

a. This chapter discusses procedures for MEC support during construction activities 

(including construction activities related to remedial actions) on sites with known or 

suspected MEC. The purpose of MEC support during construction activities is to reduce the 

potential for exposure to MEC. 

b. MEC support during construction activities may require only MEC standby support 

or subsurface removal, depending on an assessment of the probability of encountering MEC 

and the level of confidence associated with the determination. 

(1) If the probability of encountering MEC is low (e.g., current or previous land use 

leads to an initial determination that MEC may be present), only MEC standby support will be 

required. MEC standby support is discussed in paragraph 6-6 below. 

(2) When a determination is made that the probability of encountering MEC is moderate 

to high (e.g., current or previous land use leads to a determination that MEC was employed or 

disposed of in the area of concern), UXO-qualified personnel must conduct a subsurface 

removal of the known construction footprint and remove all discovered MEC. 

(3) The level of effort for construction support is site/task-specific and will be 

determined on a case-by-case basis by the PDT in coordination with the MM CX. 

c. When a determination is made that the probability of encountering MEC on a 

construction site is moderate to high (i.e., a subsurface removal of the known construction 

footprint will be conducted), an OE Safety Specialist will be on-site to provide safety 

oversight. When a determination is made that the probability of encountering MEC on a 

construction site is low (i.e., only MEC standby support is required), an OE Safety Specialist 

is generally not required on-site. 

6-2. UXO Team Composition. 

a. General. For construction activities on sites with known or suspected MEC, the 

contractor shall provide a UXO team consisting of a minimum of two UXO-qualified 
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6-2 

personnel (one UXO Technician III and one UXO Technician II). The UXO team may 

include additional UXO-qualified personnel, depending on site- and task-specific 

conditions/requirements. The number of UXO teams will vary depending upon the total level 

of effort. Qualifications for contractor UXO personnel are discussed in EP 1110-1-18. 

b. If subsurface removal is required in support of construction activities (i.e., there is a 

moderate to high probability of encountering MEC), the UXO team(s) must also meet the 

following standards: 

(1) Each UXO team will not include more than six team members in addition to the 

UXO Technician III. The UXO Technician III will supervise all MEC operations and all 

personnel assigned to his/her team. 

(2) A SUXOS will be on-site and will not supervise more than 10 UXO Technician IIIs. 

There will not be more than one SUXOS per project without prior approval from the 

Contracting Officer. 

(3) The position of UXOSO will be required on all subsurface removal projects in 

support of construction activities; however, the positions of UXOSO and UXOQCS may be 

dual-hatted when there are less than 15 personnel on-site. 

(4) A UXOQCS may not be required full-time on-site. However, QC functions will be 

performed for all field activities. 

6-3. Planning. 

a. The MEC support contractor shall prepare a Work Plan and ESS (if required) to 

supplement the construction contractor’s or USACE’s Work Plan/Site Plan as described in 

Chapter 3. 

b. The UXO team will review any archival information available regarding the area of 

the proposed construction activities. If possible, the UXO team will determine the probable 

types of MEC that may be encountered and identify specific safety considerations. 

6-4. Responsibilities. The UXO team members have the following responsibilities for MEC 

support during construction on a site with known or suspected MEC: 

a. Provide the MEC recognition, location, and safety functions for the prime contractor 

during HTRW sampling activities. 
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b. Conduct MEC safety briefings for all site personnel and visitors. 

6-5. Authority. The OE Safety Specialist has final on-site authority on MEC procedures and 

safety issues. If an OE Safety Specialist is not present on-site, the UXOSO, or if a UXOSO is 

not assigned to the site, the senior UXO-qualified person has final on-site authority for MEC 

procedures and safety issues. 

6-6. Standby Support. 

a. Standby support is required for construction activities on sites with known or 

suspected MEC if the probability of encountering MEC is low. 

b. The UXO team will meet with on-site management and construction personnel and 

conduct a general work and safety briefing, including: 

(1) Probable site hazards and site-specific safety considerations. 

(2) MEC standby support procedures. 

(3) Responsibilities and lines of authority for any MEC response. 

(4) Emergency response procedures. 

c. The UXO team will physically preview the actual construction footprint with the onsite management of the construction contractor and discuss visual observations and potential 

areas of concern. In the event that surface MEC is discovered, the UXO team will place 

flagging adjacent to the discovery for subsequent visual reference, select a course around the 

item, and lead any on-site personnel out of the area. The UXO team will assess the condition 

of the MEC to determine if a disposal action is required. If MEC is found on the surface, the 

PDT will perform a detailed assessment of the site to determine if the potential for 

encountering MEC is still low. If the potential for encountering MEC is raised to moderate to 

high, a subsurface removal for the construction footprint will be required. Refer to paragraph 

6-7 for subsurface removal requirements. 

d. The UXO team will monitor all excavation activities in areas known or suspected to 

contain MEC. One member of the team will be positioned to the rear and upwind of the 

excavation equipment for continuous visual observation of activities. If the construction 

contractor unearths or otherwise encounters a military munition with an unknown filler, all 

excavation activities will cease. The UXO team will assess the condition of the military 
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6-4 

munition to determine if a disposal action is required. Once MEC has been encountered in an 

excavation, no further excavation will be allowed at that location until EOD has removed the 

MEC. Excavation will not continue until a detailed assessment of the potential of 

encountering additional MEC is completed. If the PDT determines that the item was an 

anomaly and no other MEC are expected, then the excavation may continue. If the PDT 

determines through the available data that the probability of encountering additional MEC is 

moderate to high, then a subsurface removal of the construction footprint is required. Refer to 

paragraph 6-7 for subsurface removal requirements. The After Action Report will indicate 

that MEC was encountered and will summarize the resulting activities. 

e. The UXO team is generally not tasked to perform MEC disposition activities during 

standby support of construction activities. If MEC that requires disposal is encountered, the 

procedures outlined in paragraph 5-13 of this pamphlet will be followed. 

6-7. Subsurface Removal in Support of Construction Activities. 

a. A subsurface removal of the identified construction footprint is required when the 

probability of encountering MEC during construction-related excavation activities is moderate 

to high. 

b. A subsurface removal requires close coordination among the on-site USACE 

management personnel, the construction contractor, and the MEC support contractor. 

c. A surface removal may be required to remove any existing MEC from the surface of 

the work area prior to proceeding with subsurface removal activities. All military munitions 

debris, target materials, and non-MEC-related materials, which may interfere with a 

subsurface geophysical survey, will also be removed from the surface of the work area and 

staged for later disposition. The UXO team will perform surface removal activities. 

d. Safety Considerations. 

(1) Subsurface removal actions must be accomplished in strict accordance with the 

approved Work Plan, including all subplans (e.g., APP/SSHP, ESP, and ESS, if required) and 

appendices. Prior to commencing subsurface removal activities, the UXO team will provide a 

general work and safety briefing to all on-site personnel. This briefing will address the 

following: 

(a) Probable site hazards and site-specific safety considerations. 
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01 Aug 04 

 6-5 

(b) Responsibilities and lines of authority for any military munitions response to MEC. 

(c) Emergency response procedures. 

(2) Utility clearance and/or excavation permits, if required, must be obtained prior to the 

commencement of any intrusive activities near underground utilities. The UXO team is 

responsible for verifying that all necessary excavation permits are on-site prior to 

commencing operations. The construction contractor is responsible for contacting the 

appropriate agency(ies) or company(ies) to mark the location of all subsurface utilities in the 

construction area. All located utilities will be marked by paint, pin flags, or other appropriate 

means to visually delineate their approximate subsurface routing. The color will not conflict 

with the colors used in MEC activities. In the event that subsurface utilities are suspected in 

an excavation area, the UXO team must attempt to verify their location. The UXO team must 

be aware that not all utility lines will be detectable with geophysical equipment (i.e., not all 

utility lines are constructed of ferrous material). 

(3) MSDs must be established in accordance with Chapter 3 for all MEC procedures 

(i.e., anomaly excavation, access and identification of MEC, MEC recovery, and MEC 

destruction). During these operations, non-essential personnel will withdraw to the MSD of 

the MGFD involved. 

e. Area Preparation. 

(1) Area preparation includes reduction and/or removal of vegetation that may impede 

or limit the effectiveness of subsurface removal actions. Vegetation reduction/removal may 

be accomplished through manual removal, mechanical removal, controlled burning, or 

defoliation. Selection of the appropriate land clearing strategy will be based on the type, 

fuzing and concentration of MEC; type and concentration of vegetation; topography; drainage 

patterns; terrain and soil conditions; and the level of required environmental and natural 

resource protection. 

(2) Area preparation is not considered a MEC procedure. The UXO escort and anomaly 

avoidance procedures for access surveys presented in paragraph 5-6 of this pamphlet will be 

followed. 

f. Geophysical Mapping/Analysis. 

(1) A subsurface geophysical survey will be conducted to identify and locate all 

anomalies in the identified construction footprint. The various types of geophysical detection 
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6-6 

instruments are discussed in Chapter 4. Subsurface geophysical surveys may be completed 

using detection instruments with real time or post-processing identification and discrimination 

techniques. All anomalies will be prominently marked with survey flagging or pin flags for 

subsequent intrusive investigation. 

(2) Subsurface geophysical surveys are not considered a MEC procedure. The UXO 

escort and anomaly avoidance procedures for access surveys presented in paragraph 5-6 of 

this pamphlet will be followed. 

(3) After the dig list is developed, the selected anomalies will be reacquired in 

accordance with the Geophysical Investigation Plan. 

g. Anomaly Excavation. 

(1) Anomaly excavation operations are required to intrusively investigate and identify 

the source of all anomalies located during the geophysical survey. During excavation 

operations, only essential project personnel may be within the exclusion zone. All anomaly 

excavation operations will comply with the provisions of 29 CFR 1926, Subpart P. 

(2) UXO-qualified personnel will manually complete anomaly excavations of less than 

1 foot. If an anomaly is deeper than 1 foot, earth-moving machinery (EMM) may be used to 

assist in excavation efforts unless site constraints or accessibility restrict or prohibit such use. 

EMM will not be used to excavate within 12 inches of an anomaly. When an anomaly 

excavation gets within approximately 12 inches of an anomaly, manual excavation must be 

used to complete the excavation. 

(3) Only UXO-qualified members of a UXO team may conduct manual excavation 

operations. A non-UXO-qualified member of the UXO team may operate EMM used to assist 

in anomaly excavations. If more than one EMM will be used within the same work area, the 

TSDs described in Chapter 9 of EM 1110-1-4009 will apply to the EMMs. 

(4) After the probable source of the anomaly is identified and removed, an approved 

geophysical instrument will be used to validate the process. If the geophysical instrument 

does not continue to detect an anomaly, then the excavation may be backfilled and restored in 

accordance with contract requirements. 
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6-8. MEC Destruction. 

a. The Work Plan will include procedures for destruction of MEC recovered during 

construction activities. Destruction of recovered MEC can take one of three forms: in-place, 

on-site, or off-site. The decision regarding which technique to use is based on the risk 

involved in employing the disposal operation based on site-specific characteristics and the 

nature of the MEC recovered as determined by the UXO team. Additional information on 

MEC disposal operations can be found in TM 60A-1-1-31. 

(1) In-Place Destruction. In-place destruction (blow-in-place) is a technique used when 

it is determined that moving the MEC to an alternate location for destruction is not 

acceptable. This technique is preferred because it exposes the minimum number of personnel. 

All in-place destructions will be conducted in a manner that ensures maximum control of the 

site. When this technique is employed, engineering controls may be used to minimize the 

blast effects. 

(2) On-Site Destruction. If MEC is recovered in close proximity to occupied buildings, 

it may not be possible to safely destroy the item in-place. In this instance, the item may be 

moved to a part of the project site where destruction and disposal can safely take place. When 

a MEC is destroyed on-site, engineering controls may be used to minimize the blast effect, as 

well as to minimize residual contamination. Guidance for the on-site destruction of MEC is 

found in EP 1110-1-17. 

(3) Off-Site Destruction. If transported off-site for destruction, MEC will be transported 

by either military vehicles or by a qualified UXO contractor. MEC is typically transported to 

an active military installation where it can be safely destroyed. Off-site transportation will be 

conducted in accordance with EP 385-1-95a and EP 1110-1-18. All UXO must be certified 

for shipment in accordance with paragraph 1-9 of TB 700-2. Paragraph 6-8c below provides 

additional information on transportation of MEC. 

b. Safety. The following safety considerations for MEC destruction will be addressed 

in the Work Plan. 

(1) The UXO team conducting MEC destruction activities will consist of at least three 

personnel, with a minimum of two UXO-qualified personnel, one UXO Technician III and 

one UXO Technician II. One member of the UXO team must always be located outside the 

MSD for intentional detonations to give warning and assist in rescue activities in the event of 

an accident. 
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6-8 

(2) Explosives or accessory equipment that is obviously deteriorated or damaged will 

not be used. 

(3) Blasting caps will be at least a commercial No. 8 or equivalent and, for destruction 

activities requiring multiple caps, be from the same manufacturer. 

(4) Blasting caps must be transported in approved containers and not be exposed to 

direct sunlight. 

(5) The explosive end of blasting caps, detonators, and explosive devices will be 

pointed away from the body during handling. 

(6) Blasting caps will not be buried. Detonating cord will be used to position blasting 

caps above the ground. 

(7) Electric blasting caps must be tested for continuity prior to connecting them to the 

firing circuit. Upon completion of testing, the lead wires will be short-circuited by twisting 

the bare ends of the wires together. 

(8) In the event of an electric misfire or non-detonation, the MEC destruction site must 

not be approached for at least 30 minutes. For non-electric procedures wait 1 hour after the 

maximum delay predicted for any part of the disposal shot has passed before starting to 

investigate. A post-search of the detonation site must be conducted to ensure complete MEC 

destruction and to ensure that no fires have started. 

c. Transport. 

(1) Existing site conditions may require that MEC that has been certified as acceptableto-ship in accordance with TB 700-2 be transported to a designated MEC destruction location 

either on or off the project site. 

(2) A Transportation Plan detailing the route and procedures to be used to transport the 

MEC must be prepared and accepted prior to engaging in any transport activities to ensure 

that all safety aspects of the movement have been addressed. The transport of MEC off-site 

must be performed in accordance with the provisions of EP 385-1-95a, EP 1110-1-18, and 

applicable state and local laws. Contractor personnel who, by contract requirement, are 

tasked with the responsibility of transporting or preparing shipments of MEC for transport 

over public roads must meet all training requirements of 49 CFR Part 172 and applicable state 

requirements. 
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(3) Safety. MEC will be transported from the discovery location to an alternate 

destruction location only as a last resort. Transportation of MEC will be in accordance with 

paragraph 1-9 of TB 700-2. Armed fuzes must be transported only when absolutely necessary 

and when all other avenues for in-place disposal have been exhausted. Safety considerations 

for the transport of MEC include the following: 

(a) MEC packaging designs must provide a container with appropriate blocking and 

bracing to prevent migration of the hazardous filler. Padding will also be added to protect any 

exposed filler from heat, shock, and friction. 

(b) Base-ejection-type projectiles must be transported with the base oriented to the rear 

of the vehicle and the projectile secured. 

(c) Incendiary loaded munitions will be placed on a bed of sand and covered with sand. 

(d) Loose pyrotechnic, tracer, flare, and similar mixtures will be placed in No.10 

mineral oil or equivalent. 

(e) White phosphorus-filled munitions will be immersed in water, mud, or wet sand. 

(4) Manifest. A manifest will be prepared in accordance with 49 CFR 172.205 and 40 

CFR 262.20 when transporting MEC over public roads in non-emergency situations. In 

emergency situations, military EOD personnel will respond. For the purposes of 

transportation and storage, MEC will be hazard classified in accordance with TB 700-2. 

Government personnel who are tasked to sign shipping papers must be trained and be given 

signature authority by their agency in accordance with the requirements of DOD 4500.9-R. 

d. Explosives Management. 

(1) If explosives will be required for the destruction of MEC, then an Explosives 

Management Plan will be prepared as part of the Work Plan. The Explosives Management 

Plan will be used to provide details on the management of explosives for a specific project in 

accordance with applicable regulations. The plan will include information on Acquisition, 

Initial Receipt, Storage, Transportation, Receipt Procedures Inventory, Unaccounted for 

UXO/Unauthorized Use of Explosives, and other areas. 

(2) Explosives used for the destruction of MEC must be acquired and managed in 

accordance with applicable Federal, state, and local laws and regulations including, but not 

limited to, the following: 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

6-10 

(a) ATFP 5400.7 and 27 CFR. 

(b) DOD 6055.9-STD. 

(c) 49 CFR. 

(d) 29 CFR 1910 and 1926. 

(e) FAR 45.5. 

(3) Acquisition. Explosives may be purchased only under a license issued by the ATF. 

The license holder must provide written authorization designating the individual(s) authorized 

to purchase, store, or utilize explosives. This letter must specify the name, home address, date 

and place of birth, and the social security number of the designated individual(s). A copy of 

the letter must be maintained at the project office. In addition, the designated individual 

purchasing explosives may also be required to have a Blaster’s License issued by the state in 

which the project is located. Explosives must be purchased from an ATF-licensed 

commercial distributor. The license holder must provide the distributor a certified statement 

of the intended use of the explosive material. 

e. Temporary Explosives Storage Facilities on FUDS. 

(1) When the contractor establishes a temporary storage area for explosives on a FUDS 

site, Type 2 magazines conforming to the standards set forth in Section 55.208 of ATF P 

5400.7 must be used. The location of the proposed magazines and the Q-D arcs must be 

shown on a site map attached to the ESP. The Q-D arcs must be based on the NEW 

established for each magazine using the appropriate tables in DOD 6055.9-STD. In the event 

that existing site conditions prohibit the siting of the magazines in conformance with derived 

Q-D arcs and the NEW cannot be reduced to achieve conformance, the PM must request 

assistance in the design of engineering controls or structural modifications necessary to bring 

the magazine within the stated Q-D criteria. 

(2) Explosives and initiators must be stored separately. If magazines are also used to 

temporarily store acceptable-to-ship MEC, each MEC must be stored in accordance with its 

appropriate HD and the storage compatibility group criteria listed in Chapter 3 of DOD 

6055.9-STD. Each magazine must display the placards required by Department of 

Transportation regulations 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart F, for the HD of the MEC or explosives 

stored in the magazine. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 6-11 

(3) Lightning protection is not required for magazines located on FUDS if all of the 

following criteria are met: 

(a) The magazine is constructed of 3/16-inch-thick steel or greater. 

(b) The magazine is properly grounded. 

(c) The magazine is located at least 6 and 1/2 feet from the nearest fence or any other 

magazine. 

f. Temporary Storage Facilities on Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 

Sites/Active Installations. 

(1) Temporary storage facilities for projects on BRAC sites or active installations must 

be determined using the installation’s criteria. 

(2) Lightning protection for temporary explosives storage facilities to be located on 

BRAC sites or active installations must meet the provisions of Chapter 7 of DOD 6055.9-

STD. 

g. Security. 

(1) The Work Plan will describe the inventory control system to be implemented for 

explosives management. Magazine Data Cards documenting explosives transfers for each 

magazine must be completed with a copy maintained within the associated magazine. 

Explosives issued and unexpended must be returned to the magazine at the end of each 

workday. 

(2) The inventory control system must include provisions for the physical inventory of 

the stored MEC and explosives at least weekly. Actual quantities must be reconciled with the 

quantities annotated on the corresponding Magazine Data Cards. Any discrepancies must be 

immediately reported to the USACE representative and an audit initiated to determine the 

source of the discrepancy. 

(3) A physical security survey will be conducted in accordance with AR 190-11 to 

determine if fencing or guards are required when temporary storage facilities are used. 

Generally, a fence around the magazines is needed, but the contractor is responsible for 

determining the degree of protection required to deter the theft of MEC or explosives stored in 

the magazines. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

6-12 

(4) Locks used on magazines at a FUDS will meet the standards listed in Section 55.208 

(a) (4), ATF P 5400.7. BRAC and Installation Restoration site requirements must be 

determined using the installation’s criteria. A key control system will be documented in the 

Work Plan. 

h. Fire Prevention. A Fire Prevention Plan will be prepared and coordinated with the 

fire department with primary response responsibility. Fire extinguishers of an appropriate 

size and type must be located at all temporary explosives storage facilities. 

i. Records. Records must be maintained for all transactions and expenditures of 

explosive materials for a period of five years from the date of transaction in accordance with 

ATF regulations. These records must be maintained at the project office during on-site 

operations and subsequently at the business office of the ATF license holder. 

j. Munitions Debris Management. The Work Plan must include operational and QC 

procedures for the processing, demilitarization, and disposition of inert ordnance, rangerelated debris, and munitions debris that fall within the classification of Material Potentially 

Presenting an Explosive Hazard (MPPEH). Contact the MM CX for the requirements on 

MPPEH processing and disposition. 

6-9. Quality Management. 

a. QC. 

(1) The UXO team is responsible for the QC of all surface and subsurface removal 

activities and for ensuring that only those procedures and processes conforming to contractual 

requirements and accepted project plans are implemented. The UXO team will develop a 

Quality Control Plan (QCP) outlining the quality activities to be used for continually 

assessing the implementation, effectiveness, compliance, and adequacy of operations. 

(2) A separate UXOQCS is not required on-site full-time for MEC support activities. 

However, the MEC support contractor shall perform QC reviews of all field activities in 

accordance with the accepted QCP. 

(3) The QCP will provide procedures for validation of the following: 

(a) Surface removal and related activities are conducted in accordance with accepted 

project plans. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 6-13 

(b) Subsurface removal and related activities are conducted in accordance with accepted 

project plans. 

(c) Actual probabilities of detection are consistent with removal reliability levels and 

USACE and DDESB requirements. 

(d) Subsurface removal operations provide for an adequate level of confidence of MEC 

detection and removal to specified depths. 

(e) Disposition of MEC and materials classified as MPPEH has been completed and 

documented. Procedures are available from the MM CX. 

b. Quality Assurance. 

(1) Districts should include MEC support capabilities in all applicable contracts for 

construction activities on FUDS or active military sites. MEC concerns must be addressed 

before initiating any construction activities. Items developed for MEC support of 

construction activities (i.e., SOW, Work Plan, APP/SSHP, ESP, and ESS, if required) must be 

submitted to the MM CX for review and approval in accordance with the roles and 

responsibilities set forth in Chapter 1 of this pamphlet prior to initiation of on-site activities. 

(2) The district is responsible for supervising the fieldwork and ensuring contractor 

compliance with all accepted plans. The MM CX may also conduct random inspections to 

verify conformance. Upon completion of the MEC support activities, the PM will ensure that 

an After Action Report is submitted to the MM CX. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 7-1 

CHAPTER 7 

Procedures When RCWM is Encountered 

7-1. Introduction. 

a. This chapter discusses MEC support procedures to be followed in the event that 

RCWM or munitions with unknown fillers are encountered on a project site. Detailed 

procedures for planning and executing RCWM response actions are located in EP 75-1-3. 

b. An item configured as a military munition containing a chemical substance that is 

intended to kill, seriously injure, or incapacitate a person through its physiological effects is 

considered Chemical Warfare Materiel (CWM). CWM also includes V- and G- series nerve 

agent, H- series blister agent, and lewisite in other-than-munition configurations. Due to their 

hazards, prevalence, and military-unique application, chemical agent identification sets are 

also considered to be CWM. CWM does not include riot control agents, chemical herbicides, 

smoke and flame producing items, or soil, water, debris, or other media contaminated with 

chemical agent. Non-stockpile CWM that was previously discarded, buried, or fired and 

discovered either unexpectedly or during planned environmental restoration operations is 

referred to as RCWM. 

c. Soil, water, debris, and other media contaminated with chemical agent are not 

considered to be RCWM. The procedures described in ER 1110-1-8153 will be followed 

when only agent-contaminated media are suspected. 

7-2. Response Procedures. 

a. Any time that RCWM or munitions with unknown fillers are encountered during 

MEC support, all work will immediately cease. Project personnel will withdraw along 

cleared paths upwind from the discovery. A team consisting of a minimum of two personnel 

will secure the area to prevent unauthorized access. Personnel will position themselves as far 

upwind as possible while still maintaining the security of the area. 

b. Notification. 

(1) When RCWM or munitions with unknown fillers are identified on FUDS project 

sites, the UXO team will notify the local POC designated in the Work Plan. The local POC 

will facilitate the EOD unit’s response and two personnel will secure the site until the EOD 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

7-2 

unit’s arrival. If the local POC designated in the Work Plan is not the local law enforcement 

agency, the local POC will inform the local law enforcement agency of the discovery. The 

EOD unit will notify the U.S. Army Technical Escort Unit (TEU) and secure the area until 

TEU’s arrival. After notifying the local law enforcement agencies, the local POC will notify 

the USAESCH Chemical Warfare Design Center to inform them of the actions taken. 

(2) On active installations, the UXO team will normally notify the Range Control 

Officer, the Facility Engineer, Post Headquarters, or the POC designated in the Work Plan. 

c. Reporting. Chemical event reports must be submitted in accordance with AR 50-6. 

Specific reporting requirements are identified in EP 75-1-3. 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-1 

GLOSSARY 

Section I 

Acronyms 

ANSI..........................American National Standards Institute 

APP............................Accident Prevention Plan 

AR..............................Army Regulation 

ATF............................Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms 

ATF P ........................Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Publication 

BRAC ........................Base Realignment and Closure 

CERCLA ...................Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability 

Act 

CFR............................Code of Federal Regulations 

CPR............................Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation 

CWM .........................Chemical Warfare Materiel 

CX..............................Center of Expertise 

DA .............................Department of the Army 

DDESB......................Department of Defense Explosives Safety Board 

DOD ..........................Department of Defense 

DOT...........................Department of Transportation 

DPT............................Direct Push Technology 

EED ...........................Electro-explosive Device 

EM .............................Electromagnetic 

EM .............................Engineer Manual 

EMM..........................Earth-Moving Machinery 

EMR ..........................Electromagnetic Radiation 

EOD...........................Explosives Ordnance Disposal 

EP ..............................Engineer Pamphlet 

ER..............................Engineer Regulation 

ESP ............................Explosives Siting Plan 

ESS ............................Explosives Safety Submission 

FDEM ........................Frequency-Domain Electromagnetics 

FUDS.........................Formerly Used Defense Sites 

GPO ...........................Geophysical Prove-Out 

HD .............................Hazard Division 

HQUSACE ................Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

Glossary-2 

HTRW .......................Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste 

IDW ...........................Investigative-Derived Waste 

IGE ............................Independent Government Estimate 

MC.............................Munitions Constituents 

MCACES...................Micro Computer-Aided Cost Engineering System 

MEC ..........................Munitions and Explosives of Concern 

MGFD........................Munition with the Greatest Fragmentation Distance 

MM CX .....................Military Munitions Center of Expertise 

MM DC .....................Military Munitions Design Center 

MPPEH......................Material Potentially Presenting an Explosives Hazard 

MRA..........................Munitions Response Area 

MSC...........................Major Subordinate Command 

MSD ..........................Minimum Separation Distance 

NEW..........................Net Explosive Weight 

OE..............................Ordnance and Explosives 

PDT............................Project Delivery Team 

PL ..............................Public Law 

PM .............................Project Manager 

POC ...........................Point of Contact 

PPE ............................Personal Protective Equipment 

PVC ...........................Polyvinyl Chloride 

QC..............................Quality Control 

Q-D............................Quantity-Distance 

QCP ...........................Quality Control Plan 

RCWM ......................Recovered Chemical Warfare Materiel 

RF ..............................Radio Frequency 

SOW ..........................Statement of Work 

SSHO.........................Site Safety and Health Officer 

SSHP..........................Site Safety and Health Plan 

SUXOS......................Senior UXO Supervisor 

TB..............................Technical Bulletin 

TDEM........................Time-Domain Conductivity Electromagnetics 

TEU ...........................Technical Escort Unit 

TM .............................Technical Manual 

TSD............................Team Separation Distance 

USACE......................U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

USAESCH.................U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville 

USASC ......................U.S. Army Safety Center 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-3 

UXO ..........................Unexploded Ordnance 

UXOSO .....................UXO Safety Officer 

UXOQCS...................UXO Quality Control Specialist 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

Glossary-4 

Section II 

Terms 

Action Memorandum 

Approves time-critical removal action and also concludes the engineering evaluation/cost 

analysis. Provides a concise, written record of the decision to select an appropriate removal 

action. As the primary decision document, it substantiates the need for a removal action, 

identifies the proposed action, and explains the rationale for the removal action selected. (EP 

1110-1-18) 

Active Installations 

Installations under the custody and control of DOD. Includes operating installations, 

installations in a standby or layaway status, and installations awaiting closure under the Base 

Realignment and Closure (BRAC) legislation. (EP 1110-1-18) 

Active Range 

A military range that is currently in service and is being regularly used for range activities. 

(40 CFR 266.201) 

Anomaly 

Any item that is seen as a subsurface irregularity after geophysical investigation. This 

irregularity should deviate from the expected subsurface ferrous and non-ferrous material at a 

site (i.e., pipes, power lines, etc.). (EP 1110-1-18) 

Anomaly Avoidance 

Techniques employed by EOD or UXO personnel at sites with known or suspected MEC to 

avoid any potential surface MEC and any subsurface anomalies. This usually occurs at mixed 

hazard sites when HTRW investigations must occur prior to execution of a MEC removal 

action (i.e., creating safe travel lanes and work areas when HTRW investigations are to be 

performed prior to MEC removal). Intrusive anomaly investigation is not authorized during 

ordnance avoidance operations. (ER 1110-1-8153) 

Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 

Program governing the scheduled closing of Department of Defense sites. (Base Closure and 

Realignment Act of 1988, Public Law 100-526, 102 Stat. 2623, and the Defense Base Closure 

and Realignment Act of 1990, Public Law 101-510, 104 Stat. 1808) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-5 

Center of Expertise (CX) 

A CX is a USACE organization approved by HQUSACE as having a unique or exceptional 

technical capability in a specialized subject area that is critical to other USACE commands. 

Specific mandatory services to be rendered by a CX are identified on the CX’s homepage. 

These services may be reimbursable or centrally funded. The USAESCH is the MM CX for 

the USACE. (ER 1110-1-8153) 

Chemical Warfare Materiel (CWM) 

An item configured as a military munition containing a chemical substance that is intended to 

kill, seriously injure, or incapacitate a person through its physiological effects. Also includes 

V- and G- series nerve agent, H- series blister agent, and lewisite in other- than-munition 

configurations. Due to their hazards, prevalence, and military-unique application, chemical 

agent identification sets (CAIS) are also considered CWM. CWM does not include: riot 

control agents, chemical herbicides; smoke and flame producing items; or soil, water, debris, 

or other media contaminated with chemical agent. (HQDA Memorandum, Interim Guidance 

for Biological Warfare Materiel and Non-Stockpile Chemical Warfare Materiel Response 

Activities, 1997) 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 

(CERCLA) 

CERCLA authorizes Federal action to respond to the release or threatened release of 

hazardous substances into the environment or a release or threat of release of a pollutant or 

contaminant into the environment that may present an imminent or substantial danger to 

public health or welfare. (EP 1110-1-18) 

Construction Support 

Support provided by qualified UXO personnel during construction activities at potential MEC 

sites to ensure the safety of construction personnel from the harmful effects of UXO. When a 

determination is made that the probability of encountering UXO is low (e.g., current or 

previous land use leads to an initial determination that UXO may be present), a minimum of a 

two person UXO team will stand by in case the construction contractor encounters a 

suspected UXO with unknown fillers. When a determination is made that the probability of 

encountering a UXO is moderate to high (current or previous land use leads to a 

determination that MEC was employed or disposed of in the parcel of concern, e.g., open burn 

and open detonation areas), UXO teams are required to conduct subsurface UXO removal for 

the known construction footprint either in conjunction with the construction contractor or 

prior to construction. The level of effort will be determined on a case-by-case basis in 

coordination with the MM MCX. (ER 1110-1-8153) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

Glossary-6 

Design Center (DC) 

A specified USACE field office assigned a singular technical mission that is permanent and 

USACE-wide in scope. The designated office is to be considered the “lead activity” in a 

specialized area where capability needs to be concentrated for maximum effectiveness, 

economy, and efficiency. The MM Design Center (in coordination with the PM) will execute 

all phases of the military munitions response project after the approval of the INPR unless the 

removal action is transferred to an approved district. Only the USAESCH MM Design Center 

is authorized to execute any phase of a RCWM response. (ER 1110-1-8153) 

Discarded Military Munitions (DMM) 

Military munitions that have been abandoned without proper disposal or removed from 

storage in a military magazine or other storage area for the purpose of disposal. The term 

does not include unexploded ordnance, military munitions that are being held for future use or 

planned disposal, or military munitions that have been properly disposed of consistent with 

applicable environmental laws and regulations. (10 U.S.C. 2710(e)(2)) 

Exclusion Zone 

A safety zone established around a MEC work area. Only project personnel and authorized, 

escorted visitors are allowed within the exclusion zone. Examples of exclusion zones are 

safety zones around MEC intrusive activities and safety zones where MEC is intentionally 

detonated. For RCWM project sites, it is the area within the No Significant Effects (NOSE) 

zone. 

Explosives or Munitions Emergency Response 

All immediate response activities by an explosives and munitions emergency response 

specialist to control, mitigate, or eliminate the actual or potential threat encountered during an 

explosives or munitions emergency. An explosives or munitions emergency response may 

include in-place render-safe procedures, treatment or destruction of the explosives or 

munitions, and/or transporting those items to another location to be rendered safe, treated, or 

destroyed. Any reasonable delay in the completion of an explosives or munitions emergency 

response caused by a necessary, unforeseen, or uncontrollable circumstance will not terminate 

the explosives or munitions emergency. Explosives and munitions emergency responses can 

occur on either public or private lands and are not limited to responses at RCRA facilities. 

(Military Munitions Rule, 40 CFR 260.10) 

Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) 

The detection, identification, field evaluation, rendering safe, recovery and final disposal of 

UXO or military munitions. (EP 1110-1-18) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-7 

EOD Personnel 

Active duty military personnel who perform EOD operations. 

Explosives Safety Submission (ESS) 

The document which serves as the specifications for conducting work activities at the project. 

The ESS details the scope of the project, the planned work activities, and potential hazards 

(including the MCE) and the methods for their control. (EP 1110-1-18) 

Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS) 

FUDS include those properties previously owned, leased, or otherwise possessed by the U.S. 

and under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Defense; or manufacturing facilities for which 

real property accountability rested with DOD but were operated by contractors (Government 

owned - contractor operated) and which were later legally disposed of. FUDS is a subprogram 

of the DERP. Restoration of military land was extended to formerly used sites in 1983 under 

Public Law 98-212 (DOD Appropriations Act of FY84). 

Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste (HTRW) Activities 

HTRW activities include those activities undertaken for the Environmental Protection 

Agency’s Superfund program, the Defense Environmental Restoration Program (DERP), 

including Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS) and Installation Restoration Program (IRP) 

sites at active DOD facilities, HTRW actions associated with Civil Works projects, and any 

other mission or non-mission work performed for others at HTRW sites. (EP 1110-1-18) For 

the purposes of UXO support, HTRW activities during the investigative/design phase of 

HTRW project on a site with known or UXO with unknown fillers require anomaly avoidance 

procedures. HTRW activities during the remedial action phase (construction) of HTRW 

project on a site with known or UXO with unknown fillers may require either standby support 

or subsurface removal. 

Material Potentially Presenting an Explosive Hazard (MPPEH) 

Material potentially containing explosives or munitions (e.g., munitions containers and 

packaging material; munitions debris remaining after munitions use, demilitarization, or 

disposal; and range-related debris); or material potentially contaminated with a high enough 

concentration of explosives such that the material presents an explosive hazard (e.g., 

equipment, drainage systems, holding tanks, piping, ventilation ducts) associated with 

munitions production, demilitarization or disposal operations. Excluded from MPPEH are 

munitions within DoD’s established munitions management system and other hazardous items 

that may present explosion hazards (e.g., gasoline cans, compressed gas cylinders) that are not 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

Glossary-8 

munitions and are not intended for use as munitions. (28 October 2003 ACSIM 

Memorandum) 

Military Munitions 

All ammunition products and components produced for or used by the armed forces for 

national defense and security, including ammunition products or components under the 

control of the Department of Defense, the Coast Guard, the Department of Energy, and the 

National Guard. The term includes confined gaseous, liquid, and solid propellants, 

explosives, pyrotechnics, chemical and riot control agents, smokes, and incendiaries, 

including bulk explosives and chemical warfare agents, chemical munitions, rockets, guided 

and ballistic missiles, bombs, warheads, mortar rounds, artillery ammunition, small arms 

ammunition, grenades, mines, torpedoes, depth charges, cluster munitions and dispensers, 

demolition charges, and devices and components thereof. The term does not include wholly 

inert items, improvised explosive devices, and nuclear weapons, nuclear devices, and nuclear 

components, except that the term does include non-nuclear components of nuclear devices 

that are managed under the nuclear weapons program of the Department of Energy after all 

required sanitization operations under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. 2011 et 

seq.) have been completed. (10 U.S.C. 2710(e)(3)(A)) 

Munitions Constituents (MC) 

Any materials originating from unexploded ordnance, discarded military munitions, or other 

military munitions, including explosive and nonexplosive materials, and emission, 

degradation, or breakdown elements of such ordnance or munitions. (10 U.S.C. 2710 (e)(4)) 

Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) 

This term, which distinguishes specific categories of military munitions that may pose unique 

explosives safety risks, means: 

(a) Unexploded Ordnance (UXO), as defined in 10 U.S.C. 2710 (e)(9); 

(b) Discarded military munitions (DMM), as defined in 10 U.S.C. 2710 (e)(2); or 

(c) Munitions constituents (e.g., TNT, RDX) present in high enough concentrations to pose an 

explosive hazard. (28 October 2003 ACSIM Memorandum) 

Munitions Debris 

Remnants of munitions (e.g., penetrators, projectiles, shell casings, links, fins) remaining after 

munitions use, demilitarization or disposal. (28 October 2003 ACSIM Memorandum) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-9 

Munition with the Greatest Fragmentation Distance (MGFD) 

The munition with the greatest fragment distance that might be recovered as a result of 

previous training during actions based on historical information. The selected MGFD must be 

realistic with reasonable probability of occurrence. 

Munitions Response 

Response actions, including investigation, removal and remedial actions to address the 

explosives safety, human health, or environmental risks presented by unexploded ordnance 

(UXO), discarded military munitions (DMM), or by munitions constituents (MC). (28 

October 2003 ACSIM Memorandum) 

Munitions Response Area (MRA) 

Any area on a defense site that is known or suspected to contain UXO, DMM, or MC. 

Examples include former ranges and munitions burial areas. A munitions response area is 

comprised of one or more munitions response sites. (28 October 2003 ACSIM 

Memorandum) 

Munitions Response Site (MRS) 

A discrete location within a MRA that is known to require a military munitions response. (28 

October 2003 ACSIM Memorandum) 

OE Safety Specialist 

USACE Personnel, classified as a GS-0018 Safety Specialist, and who is UXO-qualified. OE 

Safety Specialists perform safety, quality assurance and UXO subject matter expert functions 

for the Government. The Safety Specialist may reside in and report to the construction field 

office or may reside in the engineering/construction office within the MM Design Center. 

(ER 1110-1-8153) 

Project Delivery Team (PDT) 

The PDT is a multi-disciplined PDT led by the Project Manager with responsibility for 

assuring that the project stays focused, first and foremost on the public interest and on the 

customer’s needs and expectations and that all work is integrated and done in accordance with 

a PMP and approved business and quality management processes. The PDT focuses on the 

quality of project delivery, with heavy reliance on partnering and relationship development to 

achieve better performance. (ER 5-1-11) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

Glossary-10 

Project Manager (PM) 

The PM is responsible for management and leadership of the project its entire life cycle, even 

when more than one USACE district or activity is involved. The PM will generally reside at 

the geographic district, but can be elsewhere as needed. The PM and PDT are responsible and 

accountable for ensuring the team takes effective, coordinated actions to deliver the 

completed project according to the PMP. The PM manages all project resources, information, 

and commitments, and leads and facilitates the PDT towards effective project development 

and execution. (ER 5-1-11)

Quality Assurance (QA) 

An integrated system of management activities involving planning, implementation, 

assessment, reporting, and quality improvement to ensure that a process, item, or service is of 

the type and quality needed to meet project requirements defined in the PMP. (EP 1110-1-18) 

Quality Control (QC) 

The overall system of technical activities that measures the attributes and performance of a 

process, item, or service against defined standards to verify that they meet the stated 

requirements established in the PMP: operational techniques and activities that are used to 

fulfill requirements for quality. (EP 1110-1-18) 

Quantity-Distance (Q-D) 

The quantity of explosive material and distance separation relationships that provide defined 

types of protection. These relationships are based on levels of risk considered acceptable for 

the stipulated exposures and are tabulated in the appropriate Q-D tables provided in DOD 

6055.9-STD. Separation distances are not absolute safe distances but are relative protective 

safe distances. Greater distances than those shown in the Q-D tables shall be used whenever 

possible. (DOD 6055.9-STD) 

Recovered Chemical Warfare Materiel (RCWM) 

Non-stockpile CWM that was previously discarded, buried, or fired and discovered either 

unexpectedly or during planned environmental restoration operations. (ER 385-1-95) 

Removal Action 

The cleanup or removal of MEC from the environment to include the disposal of removed 

materiel. The term includes, in addition, without being limited to, security fencing or other 

measures to prevent, minimize, or mitigate damage to the public health or welfare or to the 

environment. (ER 1110-1-8153) 
EP 75-1-2 

01 Aug 04 

 Glossary-11 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

Enacted in 1976, RCRA promotes the protection of health and the environment. It regulates 

waste generation, treatment, storage, transportation, and disposal for facilities currently in 

operation. The MEC removal process is affected by RCRA if MEC must be disposed off-site. 

(EP 1110-1-18) 

Small Arms 

Caliber 0.50 and smaller ordnance items. These items rarely contain explosive projectiles and 

present a very low hazard. (Huntsville Interim Guidance Document 99-02) 

Stakeholder 

Stakeholders include federal, state, and local officials, community organizations, property 

owners, and others having a personal interest or involvement, or having a monetary or 

commercial involvement in the FUDS property that is to undergo a MEC removal. (EP 1110-

1-18) 

Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) 

Enacted in 1986, this legislation establishes standards for cleanup activities, requires Federal 

facility compliance with CERCLA, and clarifies public involvement requirements. (EP 1110-

1-18) 

U.S. Army Technical Escort Unit (TEU) 

Military chemical agent response unit. 

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) 

Military munitions that: 

(a) Have been primed, fuzed, armed, or otherwise prepared for action; 

(b) Have been fired, dropped, launched, projected, or placed in such a manner as to constitute 

a hazard to operations, installations, personnel, or material; and 

(c) Remain unexploded either by malfunction, design, or any other cause. (10 U.S.C. 

2710(e)(9)) 

UXO Personnel 

Contractor personnel who have completed specialized military training in EOD methods and 

have satisfactorily performed the EOD function while serving in the military. Various grades 

and contract positions are established based on skills and experience. Check with the MM 

MCX for current ratings. (ER 1110-1-8153)