EUExNet - A European Explosives Network
Abstract
An understanding of explosives science and technology, and the competence to harness it is central to maintaining Explosives capability, national security, and in sustaining a competitive industry. A consequence of eroding this competence is the increased likelihood of explosives accidents. These are often catastrophic as demonstrated by accidents in Nigeria, Russia, Toulouse and Enschede. In addition to the serious loss of life there was the very significant damage to houses, domestic and industrial infrastructure and to the environment at a cost of many millions of euros. There is a perception and some evidence that in Europe competence in this key technological area is being eroded. In several European nations a high proposition of the most experienced and knowledgeable personnel are retiring or nearing retirement. Urgent efforts are therefore underway in some European nations to replenish this expertise. In the year 2003 KCEM started a European pilot project (EUExcert) to tackle this problem. A second project (EUExcert II) started in 2006. The outcomes of both projects have been presented at earlier DDESB conferences. A third project (EUExNet) was started in November 2009 with partners from 10 European countries and one European organisation. This project will monitor and evaluate (1) the work to set up national nodes/bodies and (2) the procedures for accreditation and issuing of certificates at national nodes/bodies. The framework for the project is based on the European commission's ideas of making lifelong learning a reality for all citizens, which is defined as; "all learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competence, within a personal, civic, social and/or employment-related perspective."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA532369
Entities
People
- Erik Nilsson
- Hans Wallin