Explosives and shotfiring

• Pages: 37-42

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12. Explosives and shotfiring

12.1. General provisions: Explosives

12.1.1. Only explosives and detonators approved by the competent authority and

provided by the mine operator should be used in a mine.

12.1.2. National laws or regulations should define the term "explosive" and

specify the conditions governing its manufacture, transport and usage.

12.2. Storage of explosives

12.2.1. A magazine built at a mine where explosives are to be stored should be

constructed in accordance with the requirements of, and should be licensed by, the

competent authority.

12.2.2. Detonators and detonating accessories should not be stored in the same

magazine as other explosives unless kept in a separate approved compartment.

12.2.3.1. Every main magazine should be under the charge of a person appointed

by the manager for the purpose who should be responsible for the safe keeping of the

keys of the magazine and for the safe storage and issue of the explosives.

12.2.3.2. The mine manager should keep a record book which should show the

quantities of explosives on hand and the quantities of explosives received or issued, as

well as the dates and times at which they were received or issued, and to whom.

12.2.4.1. Explosives which have deteriorated should be destroyed in an approved

manner in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

12.2.4.2. Where operations at a mine or part of a mine are to cease or be

suspended, all explosives should be removed to a safe place or destroyed in an

approved manner.

12.2.5.1. Excepting explosives, articles likely to cause a fire or explosion should

not be taken into or permitted to remain in a magazine.

12.2.5.2. Persons may not smoke or permit an open flame to be within 6 m of any

place where explosives are stored, transported or used.

12.2.6. Every magazine should be kept clean, dry and adequately ventilated and

the roof and walls maintained in good and safe condition.

12.2.7. The area surrounding a magazine should be kept free of dry grass, bush,

rubbish and other flammable material for a distance prescribed in national legislation

and, where practicable, enclosed by a fence.