Surface Mining & Quarrying
Handling of Explosives in Mines
For employees who handle explosives, initiating systems and accessories between the magazine and the point of use.
Overview
In terms of Section 10 of the Mine Health and Safety Act, the employer must provide information, instruction, training and supervision so that work is performed safely and without risk to health, and every employee must be familiar with work-related hazards and risks and the measures to eliminate, control and minimise them.
Chapter 4 of the MHSA Regulations provides for the competencies of rockbreakers and blast assistants, but there is no specific regulation governing the competencies of employees engaged in the handling of explosives and their control between the storage facilities and the points of use.
There are employees other than blast assistants and rockbreakers who handle explosives, initiating systems and accessories during charging up and blasting. This programme addresses their competence.
It excludes the duties covered by the skills programmes for the control of explosives magazines on mines and quarries, for Blasting Assistant (underground and surface), and the Rockbreaking qualifications.
Competencies & outcomes
- Comply with the Mine Health and Safety Act in respect of the competencies for handling explosives
- Control explosives between the storage facility and the point of use
- Handle initiating systems and accessories safely during charging up and blasting
- Identify and report hazards and risks associated with explosives
Entry requirements
- Employed in a role that handles or transports explosives, accessories or initiating systems
- Valid certificate of medical fitness for work at the mine
- Able to communicate orally and in writing
More in Surface Mining & Quarrying
Related programmes
Blasting Certificate for Opencast Mines
Preparation for provisional and permanent opencast blasting certificates in terms of Chapter 28 of the Minerals Act regulations.
Examination, Making Safe and Declaring Safe of Surface Mines, Quarries, Dumps & Stockpiles
Competent Person A for surface workings — blasted and un-blasted — in terms of the Fall-of-Ground regulations.
Blasting Assistant — Surface Mines & Quarries
The competencies required of a blasting assistant under the Explosives Regulations of the Mine Health and Safety Act.