I agree that controlled detonations can be the safest route, especially for highly unstable materials where any disturbance could trigger them. I’d understood, though, (again, not an expert), that in many cases… especially if no immediate threat to people is present… technicians might start with robots to examine the material remotely or potentially neutralize it without detonation, if safe.

And, from my non-expert opinion, some explosive materials are sensitive enough to warrant a controlled detonation right away, but it seems there are far, far more often initial remote investigations before they make that call, to avoid unnecessary detonations. It’s always fascinating to see how much science goes into evaluating safety protocols! Or doesn’t, in this case.