James received the following from Qinetiq, explaining the situation:
QinetiQ operates the Range at Shoeburyness on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), delivering test, evaluation and training services. As part of our management of potentially noisy activity, we carry out acoustic forecasting prior to activity taking place. This is done to minimise noise disturbance which may be experienced by local communities. We then continuously observe sound pressure levels through our six monitors located at key points around the Thames Estuary to ensure that our activities do not exceed the site’s self-imposed and contracted limit of 125dB.
On 20 November the range was conducting Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training for military personnel prior to their deployment to the operational theatre. In order to provide these personnel with realistic and operationally essential experience of real life scenarios, albeit in the safe environment of the training area, activities were undertaken which, on this occasion, were perceptible off site. The site’s usual noise prediction process was applied, but an unforeseen change in weather conditions resulted in two occurrences with readings in excess of 125dB but still well below the statutory limit of 140dB. Safety is of paramount importance when undertaking this training and once the detonation sequence was set in action, it could not be stopped.
QinetiQ apologies for any disturbance caused. Both QinetiQ the MOD take this matter seriously and have invested in a new acoustic forecasting and noise monitoring system to ensure that they are doing everything possible to manage any negative impact on local communities. Information on forthcoming Range activity can be found at www.shoeburyness.qinetiq.com Anyone concerned about Range activity can call the freephone Careline on 0800 0560108