An Introduction to Electro-Explosive Hazard Assessment

Abstract. The electromagnetic environment (EME) in both civilian and defence arenas continues to grow in complexity and intensity. At the same time complex electronic and electric control of a multitude of systems including those involving explosive ordnance (EO) is becoming commonplace. Paralleling this growth is, or should be, a heightened awareness of the EME and its effects including those from electromagnetic radiation hazards to ordnance, personnel, fuel, and electronic devices. Duty of care requires that the risks arising from these interactions be maintained at acceptable levels. This paper is intended to provide the novice, with minimal background in electromagnetics and explosives, some insight into the nature of electro-explosive hazards (EEH). While hazards arise from a number of electromagnetic phenomena, because of space limitations, this paper is limited to those associated with radio and radar transmission equipment, and the methodologies that can be used to estimate and manage such hazards.