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Latest News From Ramora UK

Published Jun 8, 2011 10:54 PM by The Maritime Executive

Ramora UK launches REODS upgrade

  • The safest and most accurate Remote Explosive Ordnance Disposal System ever
  • Purpose built for maritime Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
  • The upgraded REODS has faster deployment options

Ramora UK the world-renowned provider of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training and support services, has upgraded its REODS, creating the safest and most accurate Remote Explosive Ordnance Disposal System.

The updated system was specially designed and built for oil and gas companies and maritime Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). It combines cutting edge technology with highly experienced personnel to deliver a facility that provides unbeatable safety and accuracy in locating, removing and disposing of maritime Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) and Remnants of War (RoW) from pipelines, platforms and the open seabed.

David Welch, MIExpE, Managing Director of Ramora UK, commented:
“The Ramora UK upgraded REODS has revolutionised the underwater explosive removal industry, enabling faster and safer operations that are capable of removing larger and more complex underwater explosive systems than ever before. The Ramora UK REODS can integrate with any ROV and has the capability to be used across various industry sectors including oil and gas, renewable energy and the maritime sector.”

How does Ramora UK’s REODS work?
REODS is the first purpose-built remote EOD system available commercially. Built to ISO 9001 engineering standards, REODS uses a very specific set of engineering systems that are the safest and most reliable in the world in the field of underwater explosive technology. Operated by fully-qualified Ramora UK Disposal Officers (RDO), the system offers a dedicated 24/7 mobilisation capability, which integrates fully with all existing work class ROV. With intrinsic safety design and cutting-edge capabilities, REODS has a lifting capacity in excess of 1000kg, and is operational in depths in excess of 175 metres. Tested and approved within the oil and gas industries, REODS is also the safest EOD system available, completely removing the human diver interface from its operations.

Why did Ramora UK upgrade its REODS?
The latest Ramora UK REODS system was developed to provide extra safety and reliability for the thousands of experts involved in the disposal of the millions of tonnes of unwanted, conventional and trial explosive munitions currently lying on the sea bed. An estimated 400,000 tonnes of UXO are currently on the North Sea floor, resulting in hazardous working conditions for those involved in the maritime industry, and significant, repeated commercial losses for companies that have tried – usually without success – to remove these devices. The Pipeline Safety Regulations of 1996 require all operators to identify hazards relating to pipeline with potential to cause major accident, stipulating that a full risk evaluation and safety management system to be put in place. However, at least 115 deaths and 35 serious injuries have been caused by UXO from World Wars I and II since 1945. This severe level of danger, combined with the need to remove the unexploded devices, prompted the experts at Ramora UK to develop a solution that combined safety with technical excellence.

What are the benefits of Ramora UK’s upgraded REODS?
Unlike conventional methods for locating and disposing of maritime Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) and Remnants of War (RoW), the REODS system completely removes the human diver interface, relying entirely on proven offshore technology combined with military experience. The latest REODS system offers a significant reduction in surface team (only five EOD specialists are required), coupled with faster options for deployment. The net result is significantly increased disposal timescales (less than 2 hours ROV dive time per contact); increased flexibility; and guaranteed interoperability with on-board equipment. The new REODS system also allows operations from smaller vessels, with charge pack delivery from observation ROVs.

Ramora UK Exhibits at Undersea Defence Technology Expo

  • The largest dedicated undersea conference and exhibition in the world
  • On Day 1 – Ramora UK MD speaks about Olympic Security Preparedness
  • On Day 2 - Ramora UK MD speaks about Diver Detection

7th/ 8th / 9th June 2011
UDT, London

Ramora UK will exhibit on stand B31 at this year’s Undersea Defence Technology Expo ‘UDT’ (www.udt europe.com) - the leading global exhibition and conference for undersea security, underwater warfare and sub-surface platforms, detection and combat systems, exploring the expanding security requirements of civil sub-surface systems, resource infrastructure and communications.

UDT Europe addresses the ever changing nature of global operations and the increased complexity of maritime security. UDT unites naval procurement specialists, defence scientists, prime contractors and key technology providers for three days of valuable discussion, networking and showcasing new technology.

This year, for the first time, UDT will be featuring a waterborne demonstration programme providing visitors with a chance to see the latest technology and developments on the water. The exhibition conferences will focus on Submarine Warfare, Harbour and Port Security and Mine Countermeasures.

Ramora’s MD, Mr David Welch will deliver two speeches during the three day exhibition held at London’s ExCel. On day one, Tuesday 7th June, Mr Welch will participate in the Innovation Showcase conference to highlight the latest undersea defence and security technology. He will speak about Olympic Security Preparedness focusing on the training of event staff in basic understanding of IEDs and threat. On day two, Wednesday 8th June, Mr Welch will join the main conference session to speak about Diver Detection. His speech will give an overview of diver detection options, false detection issues, response to a detection alert, rules of engagement and difficulties facing first responders.

The Ramora UK team will also be joining the undersea defence community at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich for the UDT Annual dinner. This is the headline event for the UDT community, attracting senior military personnel, conference delegates, exhibitors and visitors.

UDT is the conference for all involved in any aspect of underwater security, maritime homeland security. UDT provides the ideal forum to discuss future threats, capability requirements, emerging technologies and innovative new platforms.