Integration of Demilitarization Contractors and Recyclers - Collateral Benefits of On-Site Training of Recyclers

摘要

Gradient Technology, Bedford Metals, and Demil Metals, Inc. formed and are currently operating a joint team in order to fully manage the safe demilitarization and recycling of explosive and metal components (R 3). This unique team effort provides enhanced process safety as a fully integrated team handles the resource recovery and reclamation of the munitions from the start of the demilitarization process through to the certificate of destruction at the end. Operating as a joint venture, the team has complete transparency throughout the different companies. Historically, this level of transparency has been difficult to achieve with subcontracted efforts. Gradient Technology took the lead in performing on-site ordnance recognition training to the recyclers. This training included general ordnance recognition and identification beyond the munitions that Gradient Technology processes. The collateral benefit of the extended training has allowed the recyclers to better identify and evaluate potential ordnance hazards in scrap metal that they receive from other sources. The result of the training over the last few years has been zero lost-time accidents related to handling ordnance and the identification of several suspect items that were referred to the local authorities. Although the DOD has an excellent safety record with recycling MPPEH, there is still benefit in providing advanced ordnance recognition training to recyclers.