Alford Technologies provides specialist explosive engineering, remote intervention, and independent technical advice for complex, high-risk situations. We combine experience in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), structural demolition and remotely operated systems to solve problems where conventional methods are unsafe or impractical.
We can work with you in three ways:
Independent adviser: reviewing methods and risks, without carrying out the work
Specialist support: working alongside your existing project team
Full delivery: developing and carrying out the intervention ourselves
What we handle
Unsafe and unstable structures
Structural failure, fire, deterioration or partial collapse can leave buildings and industrial installations too dangerous to approach. Working alongside structural engineers, we develop controlled demolition methods that use remotely operated equipment and explosives, where appropriate, to bring the structure down while keeping personnel clear.
Failed or incomplete demolitions
An unsuccessful demolition can leave a structure partly collapsed and unpredictable. We design bespoke methods, including remotely deployed charges, to complete the job without sending people into the hazard area.
Complex explosive ordnance
Some ordnance is hard to deal with because of its condition, location or type. We provide assessment, engineering and intervention for damaged or unstable ordnance, and for incidents that need bespoke equipment or an unconventional approach.
Remote intervention
Where it’s too dangerous for people to go in, we use remotely operated systems to carry out the task. The same approach works for unstable structures, explosive hazards and industrial installations where access is restricted or unsafe.
Independent technical review and advice
We can be engaged at any stage, from feasibility and risk assessment to an independent check before work starts. Our advisory services include:
Methodology reviews: assessing proposed demolition, explosive and remote methods, with their risks, limits and possible improvements
Unsafe structure assessments: advice on demolition and intervention options, alongside structural engineers
Explosive engineering advice: independent evaluation of demolition concepts, charge systems and methods
Remote intervention feasibility: where remote equipment could reduce personnel exposure
Technical troubleshooting: support when conventional methods have failed, or unexpected problems arise
Expert support for stakeholders: independent advice for clients, contractors, insurers and others
Proven at Didcot Power Station
After the partial collapse of Didcot A Power Station in 2016, the remaining boiler house was too unstable for anyone to approach or enter. Alford developed and carried out a fully remote explosive demolition, using remotely operated vehicles to place and connect the charges without anyone entering the hazard area.
The operation showed how EOD techniques can solve structural demolition problems that conventional methods can’t. Read more about our explosive demolition work.
How we work
- Assess: the hazards, constraints and options, with the relevant specialists.
- Plan: a tailored strategy covering structural stability, access, personnel safety and whether remote or explosive methods suit the task.
- Engineer: when needed, we design, manufacture, and test bespoke charges, deployment systems, and equipment.
- Execute remotely: wherever practicable, we use remotely operated systems for equipment deployment, charge placement and demolition.
When we’re engaged as advisers, we provide an objective assessment and recommendations so others can carry out the work safely.
Why Alford
- EOD and demolition in one team: experience across EOD, structural demolition, remote intervention and explosive engineering
- Military EOD techniques, adapted: equipment and methods developed for military EOD, applied to industrial and structural hazards
- In-house engineering and testing: we design, build and test bespoke solutions on our own ranges at Broadmead and Emborough
- Independent advice: specialist reviews without requiring Alford to carry out the work
When conventional methods aren’t safe enough
Whether you need to demolish an unstable structure, manage a complex explosive hazard, recover a failed demolition, or get an independent assessment, we can help you find a safe, practical solution.