Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ......................................................................................5
2. Introduction about contractor ...........................................................5
3. Objective .........................................................................................5
4. Preamble .........................................................................................6
5. Scope ..............................................................................................7
6. Storage of Explosives ......................................................................7
7. Definitions & Terminology ...............................................................7
8. Production Planning ......................................................................10
9. General Requirement ....................................................................11
10. Manage Blasting Operations .........................................................11
11. Personal Protective Equipment and Special Equipment for the
Blasting ..........................................................................................11
12. Required Competencies and Training ...........................................13
13. Risk Assessment ...........................................................................14
14. Safe and Secure storage and Transportation of Explosives .........16
15. Licensing and Regularity Requirement .........................................19
16. Blasting Notification .......................................................................19
17. Blast Planning and Record Keeping..............................................21
18. Basic Calculation ...........................................................................23
19. Bench Preparation and Demarcation ............................................23
20. Blast Design ..................................................................................25
21. Measuring and Priming Blastholes ................................................28
22. Charging and Stemming Blastholes ..............................................32
23. Surface Tie-Up ..............................................................................36
24. Initiation Sequencing Methods ......................................................38
25. Implementation Plans ....................................................................39
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26. Safety Procedures .........................................................................40
27. Emergency Plan ............................................................................41
28. Pre-Blast Meeting ..........................................................................42
29. Monitor and Control Manual ..........................................................42
30. Blast Clearance and Firing shot. ....................................................45
31. Fly rock ..........................................................................................47
32. Post Blast Inspection and Assessment...........................................47
33. Misfire Management. .....................................................................50
34. Misfire Reduction ...........................................................................54
35. Secondary Breakage Procedure. ..................................................61
36. Typical Blast Design ......................................................................62
36.1. Firing Pattern ............................................................................63
36.2. Drill Plan. ..................................................................................64
36.3. Chargin Pattern. .......................................................................65

37. Drill Log / Rig Loh. .......................................................................66

38. Machinery & Equipment List ........................................................67
39. Organizational Chart ....................................................................69
40. Technical & Data Sheet................................................................70
41. Environmental Section. ................................................................78
42. Document & Attachment. .............................................................85
42.1. Blasting Request. .....................................................................85
42.2. Blasting Plan. ............................................................................86
42.3. RISK ASSESSMENT ................................................................87
43. APPENDIX .................................................................................101

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1. Introduction

ARAMCO is one of the world's largest integrated energy and chemicals companies,
creating value across the hydrocarbon chain, and delivering societal and economic
benefits to people and communities around the globe who rely on the vital energy
we supply.

2. Introduction about contractor

Nesma has extensive expertise in various regions of Saudi Arabia, and has gained this
experience over the course of dozens of years of hard work appreciated by clients,
through the design and implementation of many vital successful projects with many
of the largest and most respected institutions and bodies.

Nesma Company is working in Aramco and was working in NEOM projects in many
Work orders in different regions of Neom, as well many projects around Saudi
kingdom

3. Objective
The Work Order involves the earthworks for Making pipelines trench
and ROW. The scope includes controlled excavation to formation
level, segregation, management of stockpiles within the Site
boundary limits, installation of approved slope stabilization,
transportation of excavated
materials to the Employer’s stockpiles and storage areas from the Site
boundary, and all associated temporary works.

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4. Preamble
The use of explosives to break rock involves the sudden application of large
amounts of energy and is therefore a process requiring the effective
management and control of activities to ensure that hazards are identified and
appropriately controlled. On a surface blast site, the potential hazards are
increased by the need to handle sensitive initiating explosives while working in
a harsh environment. The blasting process must be handled and managed in a
way that minimizes the risk of the unplanned detonation of explosives, and
associated undesired outcomes, and uncontrolled blast behavior at the time of
firing.
In considering the safety of blasting personnel, contractors and the public,
hazards associated with the blasting process include, but are not limited to, the
following:
 Loss or theft of explosives from the blasting site, representing a security risk.
 Unplanned detonation of explosives due to incorrect handling or
application, or during transportation.
 Unplanned detonation during placement due to impacts associated with operating
equipment (e.g., as drills and excavators in adjacent areas); impact from passing
equipment; or snap-slap-shoot risks from passing equipment.
 Unplanned detonation of explosives after placement, from an external source of
initiation such as hot/reactive ground, or lightning. (in case of electronics).
 Unplanned detonation of explosives due to the application of electrical energy for
testing orfiring of electronic initiation systems, e.g., following undetected damage
by lightning.
 Fly rock risks to persons, equipment, and infrastructure, outside the blast exclusion
zone, generated by an inadequately confined blast, within a blast exclusion zone that
has not been adequately cleared prior to firing, or an exclusion zone inadequately
determined based on ground conditions.
 Environmental compliance risks (overpressure and ground vibration) associated with
overloaded blastholes, large (reinforcing) blasts, and unfavorable meteorological
conditions.
 Persons at risk from dust and fumes generated by the blast, outside the blast exclusion
zone or potentially outside the site boundary.
 Persons at risk from misfired blastholes, particularly during subsequent excavation or
re-drilling of the blast area.
This method statement has been developed to provide practical guidance regarding on-bench
activities that must be considered as part of the risk assessment process, and during the
development of a safety management plan and associated operating procedures and work
instructions. The method statement is necessarily generic in order to remain applicable across
a broad range of applications, using a variety of explosive products, to achieve different
blasting outcomes, etc.,

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5. Scope
This method statement sets out recommendations and precautions to ensure the safety of
employees, sub- contractors, members of the public and the environment, in relation to
activities associated with the blasting process. These recommendations principally apply to
‘on-bench’ activities, including the preparation of a blast area, the priming and charging of
blastholes, stemming and the tie-up of charged blastholes ready for firing.

6. Storage of Explosives
Explosive storage, Materials will be supplied by the explosives Supplier Company directly form
Suppliers’
stores to site or Blasting store magazines will be used for explosives storage.

7. Definitions & Terminology

Air blast – is vibration of the atmosphere due to the release of explosives energy.
ANFO – An ammonium nitrate 94% and Fuel Oil 6%.
Bench – A ledge, which, in open-pit blast area, forms a single level of operation above
which excavated from a continuous bank or bench face.

Bench Height – The vertical distance between the base of one bench and the base of the
overlying bench. The bench height is designed by the blast planner. The main constraint on
height of bench is usually the limiting thickness that can be handled by the drills and/or the
loading equipment.

Blast Boards – Designated boards located in areas where general mining personnel gather or
pass, dedicated to the site blasting activities and indicating the location, time and date of any
scheduled blasting on a mine/quarry site.

Blast Location – The location where blastholes are to be charged and fired, and within which
access will be restricted to authorized persons, authorized vehicles, or personnel/vehicles
under the supervision of an authorized persons. The blast area may also include clearance
distances outside the immediate charging area. For example, drilling, excavation, and other
operations may be restricted, adjacent to, above or in front of the immediate charging area.

Blast controller – or blast machine, the apparatus used to initiate a blast(s) by the responsible
approved shot firer

BE – blast engineer

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Blast Exclusion Zone – The area that is determined by a risk assessment process, to ensure that all
the expected
/ Foreseen effects of the blast, are maintained within a controlled area. The Blast Exclusion
Zone can be layered, with an inner zone being defined as the exclusion area for equipment and
a wider area being defined as the exclusion area for personnel.

Blast Guard - Industry terminology for a hard barrier consisting of a suitable person and
equipment (visual indicators, suitable vehicle, and communications equipment), strategically
located to prevent access of unauthorized personnel and traffic into a designated Blast
Exclusion Zone.

BMS – Blasting Method Statement

Blast Supervisor – A person who is appointed and responsible for the logistics of the clearance
of the Blast Exclusion Zone, including the removal of personnel and equipment, the
positioning of blast guards, and completion of a final sweep prior to firing. In some cases, this
may be the Shotfirer.

B&S – burden and spacing, burden the perpendicular distance from a blast hole to the free
face, spacing the linear distance between two blast holes in the same row

Blasting wire – also called harness wire, bell wire, a thin 2 core copper cable, usually on 500-meter-
long rolls

Fly rock – is rock that is projected by the blast outside the blast clearance zone.

Misfires – The attached document in the appendix under the heading “A Protocol to
Reduce the Risk of Dealing with Misfires” explains misfires
The BMS deals with misfires and cover the below mentioned points in the misfire
section in this blasting method statement
• Type(s) of misfires
• Treatment of misfires
• Reasons for misfires
• Prevention of misfires

D&B – Drill and blast

ID – Identification

Post-Blast Fume – The plume of material generated after the initiation of ammonium
nitrate-based explosives, which is sometimes a yellowish through to a red/brown color.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) - Items of clothing or devices worn to protect an

individual from the actual or potential risks to health or safety arising from an activity or
process.

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Pre-Blast Meeting – A meeting sometimes conducted at the edge of the delineated shot, prior
to the shot being fired. The meeting should include the Shotfirer, Blast Supervisor, nominated
Blast Guards and other personnel relevant to the blast such as technical representatives
and/or supervisors.

Pre-Shift Meeting – A meeting conducted on a site prior to, or at the beginning of, each shift
where relevant information is communicated to operational personnel, such as road reports,
blasting activities, sleeping shots, new hazards, misfires, changes to procedures, safety tool
box etc.

Protected works - The two classes of protected works are as follows:

a) Class A: Public street, road or thoroughfare, railway, navigable waterway, dock, wharf, pier
or jetty, marketplace, public recreation and sports ground or other open place where the
public is accustomed to assemble, open place of work in another occupancy, river-wall,
seawall, reservoir, water main (above ground), radio or television transmitter, main electrical
substation, private road which is a principal means of access to a church, chapel, community
halls, college, school, hospital or factory.
b) Class B: Dwelling house, public building, church, chapel, college, school, hospital, theatre,
cinema or other building or structure where the public is accustomed to assemble, shop,
factory, warehouse, store, building in which any person is employed in any trade or business,
depot for the keeping of flammable or dangerous goods; major dam
They must be notified prior to start Blasting activity by using email and approval from different
stakeholders.

RA – Risk assessment, attached as an appendix

Shotfirer – An appointed person who uses blasting explosives and is responsible for preparing,
charging, and firing explosives and ensuring all shots went off by inspecting for misfires. A
Shotfirer will be nominated for each blasting activity.

Site – indicates blast/excavation site.

Sleeping Shot – A blast area containing explosives that is not yet ready for firing (i.e.,
loading is incomplete) or has been delayed due to charging constraints or unsuitable
conditions (e.g., weather conditions).

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) / Standard Work Practice (SWP) - A written

procedure containing a detailed description of how a task is to be performed.
The SOP/SWP identifies the precautions required to safely complete the task and should
reference required personal protective equipment (PPE); hazards specific to the task and/or
site, the level of authority, responsibility and training required to complete the task safely;
and reporting relationships that may interact with other activities. The SOP’s and SWP’s are
usually referenced by an overlying safety management plan.

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Unauthorized Persons – Personnel not associated with blast charging and shot-firing
activities, who are not permitted to enter the blast area without permission of the
nominated Shotfirer and then only under appropriate supervision.

Unauthorized Traffic – Personnel operating machinery / vehicles not associated with blast
charging and shot- firing operations, which are not permitted to enter the blast area without
permission of the nominated shotfirer and then only under appropriate supervision.

Number Drilling Drilling Drilling Drilling Bit Specific Cubic Cubic Cubic
of Drill Rate for Rate for Rate/ Rate / Diameter design Meter Meter meter/
Machine one 5 week month / Day / week Month
machine machine
/ Day / Day
10 150 M 1,500 M 9,000 36,000 76 mm 9 M2 13,500 81,000 324,000
M M M3 M3 M3

8. Production Planning
Overall Plan for completion 1 year

“DRILLING BLASTING ONE MONTH PLAN REPORT” (One Zone)

 Estimated production through one year = 324,000 *12 = 3,800,000 M3

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9. General Requirement
Management systems and procedures which must be in place to control the blasting process and must satisfy
applicable regulatory and Aramco requirements. This method statement should be used when developing or
reviewing management systems that relate to blasting and explosives.
It is the responsibility of site management to ensure all personnel involved in blasting operations are suitably
qualified and trained and adhere to all relevant site-specific SOPs/SWPs. It is the responsibility of all persons
working on the blast bench to adhere to the relevant site specific Standard Operating Procedures and Standard
Work Practices when engaging in on-bench activity.

It is the responsibility of all persons involved in the blasting process to use risk management principles to assess
hazards and implement necessary controls for activities or processes, where there is a risk of personal injury or
equipment damage. This applies to activities on the blast bench, or to consequences of such activities while the
shot is ‘sleeping’, when the blast is fired, or at some later time.
Prior to the operation of any equipment used in the blasting process, all relevant pre-start inspections must be
completed and recorded for all equipment that is used in the operation. Equipment is not to be operated by any
person where it is not safe to do so, or where that person is not trained and authorized to do so. Equipment can
include dewatering and stemming equipment and light vehicles suitable for the transportation of the shot crew
and/or explosives.

Where vehicles are used for the transportation of bulk explosives, precursors or initiating explosives to/from the
blast area, such vehicles must comply with applicable standards. Such vehicles must be approved for use on site,
be clearly identifiable and placarded in terms of the products being transported, comply with the legislativeand
site conditions, and be managed in a manner that prevents unauthorized access to explosives and precursors.
Site-specific guidelines for the transportation and storage of explosives, and secure management and handling
of explosives and other security sensitive materials, must be documented within a Site Security Management
Plan and associated operating procedures.

10. Manage Blasting Operations

1. Documentation
2. Procedures and Operating Instructions
3. Process Modelling
4. Training & Auditing

11. Personal Protective Equipment and Special Equipment for the Blasting
The personal protective equipment required for the task will be in accordance with the company and site
requirements like Approved Hi-Visibility Clothing, Safety Footwear, Eye Protection, Hard Hat, Ear Protection and
Hand Protection etc.,

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The special equipment required for the blasting may include the following items:
(a) Site compliant two-way communication.
(b) Approved blast area demarcation and road closure items (signage, witches’ hats, flashing lights, bunting
etc.).
(c) Approved blasthole measuring devices, such as weighted measuring tapes or measuring lines, face profiling
devices and blasthole tracking systems.
(d) Approved and calibrated monitoring devices, such as temperature probes for hot holes, gas monitoring
systems where noxious gases are expected on the bench or after the blast, and vibration/overpressure monitors.
(e) Non-explosive blasthole accessories such as gas bags, blasthole savers, stem plugs, collar pegs and initiating
explosives retention devices.
(f) Approved cutting devices for detonating cord and explosives packaging.
(g) Approved circuit testing devices and firing systems/devices for electric, electronic, and signal tube firing
systems.
(h) Approved calibrated vibration and AOP recording devices.
(i) Video recording devices.

Face profiling and blasthole tracking systems may be required to assess variable free face burdens

12. Required Competencies and Training

Any person involved in blasting activities must have completed, or be undergoing, the following site training
where relevant: -
a) Induction program for all employees (generic and site-based, as applicable), and site familiarization tour.
b) Appropriate vehicle competencies and authorization in relation to the vehicles being utilized on site and
within a blast area.
c) Appropriate training package for working with explosives, or otherwise working in close proximity to
explosives or within a blast area.
d) Appropriate training package(s) for using the specific explosive systems deployed at the site, such as electric
or signal tube delay detonators, detonating cord, electronic initiation systems, presplit products etc.
e) Appropriate competency and authorization of employees (including licensing and security clearance) as
required for operating specialized equipment or conducting specialized activities (e.g., Shotfirer, Assistant
Shotfirer, Magazine Keeper, Blast Supervisor, Blast Guard).
f) Site specific personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and special / task specific requirements,
including training in the proper use and care of applicable equipment.
g) Emergency response and evacuation procedures.
h) Each site, under an appropriate safety/security management plan, must maintain a record of personnel who
are deemed competent and available to perform relevant roles, and who are authorized to access explosives
and precursors. These may include shotfirers, Blast Supervisors, magazine keepers, blast guards, explosives
handlers and explosives equipment operators.

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i) Sites must maintain a regular review and renewal of training and competency requirements as required by
legislative or company requirements.

13. Risk Assessment

Risk assessments at a broad operational level, and more specifically focusing on the management of blasting
and explosives, provide guidance for dealing with the hazards and potential consequences of undesired
outcomes and impacts. Controls to manage the identified hazards/risks should consider the hierarchy of controls
so that the most effective measures are employed. These exercises must be conducted by a representative group
of stakeholders, including management, technical and operational personnel.

Specific risk assessments must also be carried out, identifying the hazards that could be presented by an
individual shot, and the controls required at each stage of the blasting process. Operational risk assessments
should also be conducted on a daily or shift change basis as relevant.
The main areas to consider include:
a) Planning and design – Identifying the hazards and controls associated with specific blast types and ground
conditions, and the potential impacts on subsequent mining activities, wall stability, environmental impact,
downstream processing etc.,

b) Bench preparation and demarcation – Identifying the hazards and controls associated with equipment and
personnel working within the blast area, including broken ground, cavities, vehicle rollover, unsafe high-
walls/low-walls, adverse slope and crest conditions, unauthorized access, water management and interaction
with other mining processes.
c) Priming, charging, and stemming blastholes – Avoiding hazards associated with the snap/slap/shoot of signal
tube downlines, unplanned detonation in elevated temperature and/or reactive ground, and fly
rock/overpressure associated with overloaded or under-burdened holes.

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d) Blast clearance & shot firing – Ensuring adequate blast clearance and controls are in place to prevent
unauthorized access into the blast exclusion zone while blasting is in progress and until after the ‘all clear’ has
been given. Identifying where post-blast inspection of any critical areas is required, such as unstable wall
conditions and misfires, and where physical barriers need to be established after the blast.
e) In some cases, additional risk assessments will be required for specific high-risk processes, such as blasting in
elevated temperature and/or reactive ground areas, blasting in areas with a known history of generating post-
blast fume, working in areas with cracked and/or unstable ground conditions, working under steep walls or
slopes, or working in areas with noxious gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, either on the bench
or during re-entry after the blast. Consideration should also be given to any old underground workings in the
vicinity.
f) While the above risk assessment stages are not all directly associated with on-bench blasting activities, the
various hazards and controls must be understood by personnel working on-bench to ensure that potential
consequences are understood for the complete process.
g) Operational or specific risk assessments of on-bench activities are best carried out at the work area, prior to
the commencement of work.

Factors to consider in assessing risk

Factors to be taken into account during the risk assessment include the following:
a) The location of protected works and/or associated works, and any external infrastructure potentially affected
by the blasting activities (air, road, rail, power, pipelines, underground workings etc.).
b) The type of shot (cast blast, stand-up shot, presplit, box cut, production, etc.).
c) Aim of the shot (required fragmentation, heave profile, vibration outcomes etc.), taking into account the
blasting method, excavation equipment to be used, direction of fire and initiating point.
d) Known geological variation within the blast design area. This includes the presence of hard/soft bands or
zones, faults, joints & bedding planes, dykes & sills fissures etc.,
e) Likely geotechnical conditions, including groundwater, the presence of voids (either natural or from
underground workings), previously blasted broken ground, unstable crests and walls/slopes, or the potential for
elevated temperature and/or reactive ground.
f) Access to/from the blast area, and within the blast area, and the ability to charge and sequence all blastholes
to design specifications. This may include consideration of an on-bench Traffic Management Plan to ensure that
charging, dewatering and stemming equipment can access all blastholes safely, without the need to drive over
blastholes or straddle charged holes. The Traffic Management Plan should include a designated park up area to
minimize vehicle interaction. This minimizes the risk of impact or damage to initiating systems from vehicle traffic
and stemming operations, and the potential for misfires or unplanned detonation.

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g) Access to and from the proposed Blast Exclusion Zone. An exclusion zone should be identified prior to the
commencement of charging and maintained at all times, in the event that evacuation is required due to
approaching electrical storm, bushfire or some other emergency response. Blasting processed adjacent to the
blast area should not hinder this access.
h) Interaction with other mining processes adjacent to the blast area, such as drilling and excavation, and safety
hazards associated with steep slopes, noise and dust.
i) Slip, trip, fall and manual handling hazards within the blast area, associated with uneven or muddy ground, or
poor weather conditions.
j) The intended application and combination of specific bulk explosives, boosters, and initiating systems must
be consistent with supplier guidelines. For example, suitability for use in elevated temperature conditions, or
compatibility of initiating explosives such as detonating cord and boosters.
k) All explosives, blasthole accessories, equipment and tools must be approved by management for use on site,
with appropriate technical data sheets and safety data sheets provided by the supplier.
l) Specific risks associated with particular explosive products such as electric detonators and electrical hazards;
safety fuse and burning speed variability; and the potential for stretch- snap-slap-shoot events when using signal
tube systems.
m) Previous history of fly rock, poor fragmentation, inadequate/excessive blast movement, and/or excessive
blast damage.
n) Previous history of excessive vibration, overpressure and dust, or complaints of disturbance from nearby
workplace.
o) The previous history of, and potential for, generation of post-blast fume (NOx) and associated blast size and
sleep time restrictions, firing time limitations, or meteorological constraints.
p) The forecast weather conditions (particularly rainfall, lightning, dust storm, wind, and fog which may reduce
visibility).
q) The location of equipment and personnel at the time of firing and any radio communication black-spots.
r) Daily planning/scheduling requirements and time available to complete necessary tasks.
s) Where required, blast design, measuring and monitoring devices (face profiling, blasthole tracking,
temperature probes, gas monitoring systems, vibration/overpressure monitors, video equipment, etc.) should
be available and calibrated.
t) Documented blast design parameters, including blasthole diameters, burden and spacing; bench height range;
relative elevation of the bench; range of charge mass per hole or per deck; designed blast powder factor; timing,
including the required inter-hole, inter-row, and downhole delays, and firing direction, and stemming
parameters.
u) Additional controls and QA/QC records for any blasts deemed unusual or ‘high risk’. This may include
secondary blasting considerations, firing multiple shots as a single event, or firing blasts in close proximity to
each other (measured horizontally or between different levels).
v) Once work in a blast area has commenced, all personnel must continually assess conditions and report
hazards to the relevant supervisor of the work area. The site change management process must be well
understood by all personnel and work should not continue if it is not safe to do so.
w) All incidents and accidents must be reported though the relevant safety management systems for the site.

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14. Safe and Secure storage and Transportation of Explosives

Safety and Security Management Plan
Regular safety meetings for all employees with minutes and actions recorded. A schedule of audits covering
safety and security at all explosives premises and a system to initiate corrective action whenever deficiencies are
identified. A system for reporting, investigating and learning from accidents and incidents, including management
reporting, analysis and review and continuous improvement and a process for reporting significant incidents to
regulatory authorities. Emergency Response Plans (ERP) for each explosive’s premises and each transport
operation, which shall be reviewed (and updated as appropriate) at least annually. Risk Assessment(s)for all new
explosives premises a system for change management.
Training systems are required in the following areas
a) Induction for new employees, contractors and visitors, including use of PPE, any specific hazards on site, the
evacuation plan, the location of first aid stations, communications, hot work permits, confined space entry,
and any other additional safety or environmental considerations applicable to the site.
b) An employee training system, covering SOP’s, site specific procedures and job responsibilities. The system
shall include documentation of training, re-training and verification of competency.
c) A system to train employees in the correct procedures for the selection, maintenance and use of PPE
d) Emergency response plans.
Determination of Explosive Storage Location
When siting an explosive store, the risk management process must be carried out at the planning and design
stage to identify a suitable location.
Risk assessments must ensure the potential effects of a fire and unconfined explosion are adequately addressed.
Crib rooms, refuge chambers, critical infrastructure and other non-production facilities must be adequately
separated from the storage by an appropriate distance in order to minimize personnel exposure. Where multiple
storages are located, they should be sufficiently separated to minimize any interaction.
Emergency response plans should include evacuation to designated safe

locations and should aim to have all personnel at a safe distance within 45 minutes of a fire starting and
engulfing explosives. In addition, the storage location should not impede an evacuation.
The following must be risk assessed when determining the location of any underground ANE store:
− The distance from major service installations to manage the effects of a fire and explosion upon winders,
electrical substations, pump stations, ventilation equipment or other critical infrastructure.
− Proximity to other Dangerous Goods stores (fuel, explosives etc.) and associated cross propagation risks.
Requirements for Storage
These requirements apply to both permanent (fixed) locations and temporary stores except where noted.
a) Access
The hazards of an out-of-control vehicle or locomotive entering the store should be addressed. Control options
may include vehicles having to make at least one 90 degrees turn to access the store. For rail access, a suitable
de-railer or equivalent should be adjacent to the store. For temporary stores alternative methods may be
required to address the hazard.
b) Traffic Management
There must be adequate floor area for vehicle movements. A traffic management plan is to be
developed that considers planned vehicle movements in the normal operation of the store.
c) Unplanned movement
Unplanned vehicle interactions with transfer equipment and storage containers should be
addressed. Control options may include physical barriers or elevated storage.
d) Security
Access to explosives is to be controlled as it is a security sensitive product. Control measures should
align with regulatory requirements and should include physical barriers.
− to all access points on bulk containers (lockable lids, transfer valves, drain bungs, etc.); and/or
− security gates with appropriate locking devices at the storage access. (Note, where security gates are used,
consideration should be given to appropriate direction of swing to ensure safe exit in an emergency, safety of
products, trafficable routes, etc.)

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e) Drainage
The store should be constructed such that large spills are drained away from the storage. Bunding
is not recommended (refer to Spill Recovery section).
The access should be inclined or similar to provide adequate drainage to prevent deterioration of the access
roadway and prevent water entering and pooling in the store.
f) Spill Recovery
Spillage containment is generally not applied to explosives storages due to the high viscosity of the material
(does not flow readily) and to reduce the risk that containment may concentrate fuels under the storage during
fire conditions.
The design shall consider the management and recovery of spilled explosives. The store should be constructed
so that large spills do not accumulate near the storage.
g) Ground Conditions
The backs and walls of the store should be in a condition as to prevent a rock fall from impacting persons or
products. The backs and walls should be free from loose or protruding rocks or meshed and bolted to secure
from possible rock falls.
All intersecting boreholes are to be grouted and butts identified to ensure they are free of residual explosives.
The floor of the storage should be:
− Smooth for extensive foot traffic
− Stable to prevent rutting from vehicle access
− Suitable for storage container stability and vehicle operations and
− Suitable to recover spills.
For fixed ANE storage, concrete or stabilized floors are recommended to address the above hazards and
minimize the potential for tramp material being introduced.
For temporary ANE storage alternative methods may be employed provided these are assessed for risk.
h) Fire Fighting Equipment (FFE)
The specific requirement for FFE must be addressed in the risk assessment.
All storages require portable fire extinguishers to be located near vehicles or equipment where spot fires are
more likely to occur.
i) Additional Safety Equipment
All stores where product transfers take place are to be provided with
− Spill kits with appropriate clean up equipment and labelled waste containers,
− Eyewash stations, and
− Additional PPE such as face shields, gloves and aprons as required, e.g., for acid and gasser solution transfer.
j) Signage and Notification
All personnel entering the blasting operation are to be made aware of the location and access requirements
for all explosives storages.
In addition, the location of fixed explosives stores is to be recorded on the current mine plan. All
explosives’ stores shall display the following signs:
− Placarding (as appropriate to the storage, and in line with local legislative requirements)
− “No Smoking” and “No Hot Work”
− Firefighting equipment
− Eyewash (if required)
− Store product names and quantity limits
− “Authorized Access Only” or similar wording
− Emergency contact numbers
− Required PPE.
k) Documentation
explosive stores are to be provided with the following documentation in an accessible and protected
location.
− Store operation rules, including requirement for preventing unauthorized access
− MSDS and TDS for all products stored
− Emergency response plan with actions for the different emergencies (Fire, unauthorized access, loss / theft
of explosives, large spill)
− Location and type of FFE and or other equipment such as eyewash bays
− Stock records – Current stock and transfers.

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l) Lighting
Lighting should be sufficient to enable a person to easily read markings, instructions, signs, etc.
To improve illumination, walls and the roof may be painted white.
There is no specific requirement for fixed lighting unless identified as a control in the risk assessment. Where
fixed lighting is installed, it shall have a rating of at least IP55 to protect from corrosion or the rating applicable
to the underground operation.
Electrical installations inside a storage area should be minimized.
Transportation of Explosives
The transport of explosives to blasting location needs to be conducted without other dangerous goods or
explosives being carried on the same vehicle, at the same time as explosives & detonators.
Procedures for the blasting location of explosives need to detail the control measures to ensure safe transport.
Such control measures should include:
− Driver training. All personnel responsible for the transport of explosives must be trained in appropriate
emergency response for transport scenarios
− Driver authorization to have unsupervised access to security sensitive products
− Site induction
− Pre-start equipment checks
− Emergency response for transport scenarios
− Incident reporting
− Traffic management / route planning / interaction management
− Vehicle requirements (safety equipment, PPE, fire extinguishers, placarding)
− Emergency information (Explosive Emergency Procedure Guide – manufacturer handbook, Safety Data
Sheets, etc.)
− Compliance with the MPU Code of Practice, where applicable
− Load limits
− Load restraint
− Product / load security.
As the transport may be conducted by contractor or site personnel, where appropriate the procedures need to
include mine site inductions, mine specific PPE requirements and the blast specifications for vehicles operating
underground
Waste Management Procedure
The requirement to minimize waste shall be incorporated in the relevant site operating procedures.
The storage of waste shall be minimized, with regular review and management of waste inventory, including
prompt disposal.
Waste ANFO shall be noted in stock reconciliation and shall be secured from unauthorized access.
Note where waste ANFO has been treated with an appropriate surfactant and diluted to less than 45% ANFO
content it no longer has security requirements.
Waste materials shall be kept in separate, labelled and lidded containers constructed of compatible material and
stored in appropriate secure locations. No other waste (e.g. gasser, clean-up rags, combustible material, etc.) is
to be stored or mixed with the ANFO waste.
Wastes shall be removed and/or disposed of in accordance with site procedures which must recognize
environmental, organizational, and legislative guidelines.

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15. Licensing and Regularity Requirement

16. Blasting Notification

a) The site supervisor responsible for the blasting site activities will notify all persons on a blasting site,
24 hours prior to the scheduled blasting time.
b) The Operational Superintendents and other department heads will ensure the blasting information
has been passed on to all personnel under their direct control (including sub-contractors) using the site
Pre-shift Meetings and other relevant forms of communication such as e-mail.
c) All blasting notification shall be presented in a format which includes an agreed or common
language used for all site personnel.
d) Notification may include relevant external parties to the blasting/working site within close
proximity of the blasting area. Notification of these parties may include telephone communications,
emails and/or face to face meetings.
e) The site Blast Boards will be updated at least the day before the shift start on the day of firing. The site
Blast
Boards should be positioned to ensure that all personnel entering the site and/or relevant sections of
the site, where blasting activities are forecast, have direct visual information relating to the blasting
schedule.
f) The use of flashing lights to identify the ‘active’ nature of the Blast Board and positioning of the Blast
Boards at pre-shift meeting rooms, ‘T’ intersections or a ‘Stop’ sign/security gate, preceding entry to
the site and/or relevant sections of the site, where blasting activities are forecast, are recommended
where applicable.

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g) The Technical Services personnel associated with the blast will provide a scaled plan or map to be
presented at the pre-blast meeting.
The Blast Plan and the scaled plan or map should provide the following information: -

a) A clear view plan of the shot including

1. The plan and blast identification number
2. scheduled time and date of firing
3. the Blast Exclusion Zones for all equipment, personnel and fume.
4. the firing position (outside the equipment exclusion zone but if within the personnel exclusion zone what
controls will be utilized e.g. barrier type)
5. ancillary information relating to the blast e.g., wind direction/speed.
b) The nominated Blast Exclusion Zones (equipment, personnel and fume).
c) All access roads and pathways through the designated Blast Exclusion Zone
d) The location of the required Blast Guards and their respective areas of control.
e) The nominated Shotfirer and Blast Supervisor.
f) The approval and sign off from the blast design engineer and other relevant site / blast personnel (e.g. Open
Cut Examiner, Drill and Blast Supervisor, Shotfirer, Blast Supervisor, etc.).
g) A list of the names of the individual Blast Guards and Sweepers.
h) A script of the agreed radio procedures and responses.
i) A table to record any abnormalities exposed during the procedure.
j) The location of any structure or mobile equipment that will be within the personnel exclusion zone.

The blasting schedule will be provided to the designated blast personnel (e.g. Open Cut Examiner) and details
such as blasting inspections (sleeping shots and reload areas) shall be entered into the relevant blast reports
where the information can be communicated to the general mining personnel at the morning pre-shift
meetings.
The communications of blasting activities to the general blasting personnel on the work site should include
blast identification, the blast type, the location, Blast Exclusion Zone distances and the firing times.
Additional forms of blasting notification such as: -
− A site-specific blasting hotline which could be a recorded message, providing the site-specific forecast blast
firing times for all relevant persons.
− A general radio announcement made each day at a nominal time to indicate the blasting requirements of the
day.
During the day of the shot, the Shotfirer shall review the site Blast Exclusion Zone plan in conjunction with the
other relevant personnel (Technical Services Representative, Blast Supervisor, Open Cut Examiner) regarding
the following: -
− Blast Guard positions.

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− Sweep areas.
− Production and ancillary equipment locations.
− Personnel locations, including the location of maintenance personnel.
− Any exceptional circumstances related to the blast.
− The location of any structure or mobile equipment that will be within the personnel exclusion zone.
− Fume management zone
The Blast Supervisor shall confirm that the appropriate people have been notified in relation to machinery and
people to be removed from the exclusion zone. (e.g. Pit Foreman, Maintenance Foreman, Pump Crew
Foreman, machine Operator).
This should be done as early as possible prior to the shot being tied in and again the information shall be
conveyed to all at the Blast Guard meeting.
If it has been determined that the blast exclusion area encompasses a public roadway and/or rail line, it will be
confirmed at the pre-blast meeting that the relevant authorities have been notified and appropriate controls
are in place.

17. Blast Planning and Record Keeping

Effective and safe implementation of the blasting process requires prior planning and scheduling on a daily,
weekly, and monthly basis, to ensure that on-bench activities can be carried out safely within required
timeframes.
1. Factors to be considered include:
a) The blast area is to be defined, designed and scheduled so that drilling, charging and firing requirements can
be quantified and scheduled in advance.
b) The blast design and plan must consider the equipment to be used to ensure that all blastholes can be safely
accessed and drilled to designed depths, angles and orientations.
c) The blast area must be available for blasting operations to proceed, without unsafe interaction from other
blasting activities such as excavation and haulage. Consideration should be given to the effective use of physical
barriers such as safety berms.
d) Bench preparation is to be completed on time, to an adequate standard for safe and efficient drilling and
charging.
e) Drilling operations are to be progressed at a rate that will allow on-bench blasting operations to commence
and be completed on time, without excessive sleep time as a result of drilling delays.
f) Interaction between drilling equipment and blast crews is best minimized to prevent unnecessary additional
risk. If working near a drill is required it should be done under an appropriate risk assessment with consideration
of all relevant issues, including, but not limited to:
a. increased noise and dust levels.
b. potential for fluid injection injury if there is a hydraulic line burst.
c. clearance separation from the front deck of 2x drill rod lengths in case the drill rod dislodges from the
carrousel.
d. access to the drill rig for servicing and in an emergency.
e. a delineated exit path for the drill at the completion of drilling.
A demarcated minimum stand-off distance, equivalent to at least two rows or 15 meters, whichever is the
greater, from the nearest hole must be maintained. Where this cannot be avoided (for example re-drills), such
operations must be carried out under supervision and specific risk assessment.
g) Sufficient explosives products and blasthole accessories are to be available (or have been ordered) to allow
on-bench blasting operations to commence on time and be completed. In particular, bulk explosive blends to
suit likely ground conditions (dry, damp, wet), a sufficient number of initiating products (of appropriate length
and delay), gas bags to suit blasthole diameter, sufficient suitable stemming material etc.
h) Sufficient labor and equipment are to be available to complete the blast in the required timeframe,
without rushing and allowing time for unforeseen events, adequate checks and record keeping.
i) The shot must be completed and then fired within an acceptable timeframe (sleep time), allowing for
explosives limitations, weather conditions/delays, weekends, and interaction with other processes. Limiting

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sleep time can be dependent upon ground conditions (elevated temperature, dynamic water etc.), or the sleep
time parameters of either the bulk explosives (e.g. dry/damp/wet conditions) or the initiating explosives
j) The sleeping of blasts outside normal operating hours must take into consideration requirements for
maintaining restricted access and explosives security, with appropriate demarcation, guarding and supervision,
to also be effective during any night shifts.
2. Record Keeping
All relevant information regarding the blast must be maintained as part of the blast management system, with
appropriate approval and responsibility recorded throughout the process. A copy of this information must also
be available for each blast, in a ‘blast pack’ for use by the shotfirers. This is likely to include:
(a) Blast summary sheet showing nominal blast pattern, total drill meters, estimated bulk explosives
requirements and design powder factor, stemming requirements, and quantities/types of initiating explosives
and blasthole accessories.
(b) Plans and specifications detailing blast location, blast boundary and bench preparation requirements.
(c) Risk assessments for the blast work area at various stages in the blasting process with a record of all persons
entering the blast loading area to be maintained. This is to ensure that all persons within the blast loading area
have reviewed the risk assessment and are aware of the identified hazards and the controls and can be
interviewed in the event of an incident.
(d) Drill pattern showing blasthole layout, with blasthole ID, location, depth, angle, direction, and diameter of all
blastholes. Cross-sections are desirable where varying depths (e.g., stab holes) and different angles (e.g., face
holes) apply across the shot. A table of this information may also be available in the form of drill sheets, so that
actual drilled records can be compared to design.
(e) Charge sheets detailing the location of primers, charge mass and length, length of inert decks (gravel, air or
water), and stem heights for each blasthole. Cross-sections are desirable where multiple decks are used, to show
the required deck and primer location. Product selection requirements should be specified where dictated
(f) by ground conditions (e.g., depth of water, hard/soft areas, face holes etc.). Actual dipped depths and charged
quantities are also to be recorded and compared with design quantities on a hole-by-hole basis (variations to be
recorded).
(g) Additional records may be required to define specific blasting conditions, such as temperature logs for
blasting at elevated temperature, identified voids when blasting over underground workings, blocked blastholes
in cracked ground, the location of slumped holes after a rain event, the location of known or potential misfires
where lost downlines cannot be recovered.
(h) Tie-up plan showing the initiation hole, initiation sequence and firing direction, and connection sequence
(For electronic systems). Guidelines to deal with additional or missing holes are also recommended.
Modifications to the design tie-up should be recorded on the plan, particularly where changes have been made
to accommodate additional or missing holes.
(i) Blast clearance plan(s) showing the name/identity of the blast, location of the blast with respect to roadways
and other blasting activities, blast notification requirements, blast guard positions, the extent of the blast
exclusion zone for personnel and equipment, the Shotfirer’s firing position, and the location of sensitive
locations/infrastructure. This information is required at the start of charging activities, in the event of an
emergency situation such as an electrical storm or fire on an explosive’s vehicle, when rapid clearance of the
blast area may be required, or in the event that emergency firing is required (expected flooding, identification
of hot ground etc.).
(j) Magazine records, showing explosive quantities taken from the magazines, used on the shot and returned to
the magazine. This must be recorded in a way that allows appropriate reconciliation of initiating explosives for
specific product types, in order to identify unexplained losses or theft, and to ensure explosives storage limits
are not exceeded.
(k) Bulk explosives delivery records by truck and shift, that allow reconciliation of actual and design densities
and quantities, of explosive products used.
(l) Bulk explosives delivery records that allow identification of which holes were loaded by which truck (if
applicable).
(m) Shotfirer’s daily/shift/roster report, including blast summary information, firing time/date, weather
conditions at the time of firing, and blast performance comments regarding fragmentation, heave profile,

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fly rock, fume, misfires etc. Separate reports may need to be completed regarding misfires and environmental
impacts.
(n) A video record of the blast event, and pre/post blast photographs provide an essential visual record,
particularly in the event of an unexpected blast outcome or impact.
(o) All site records should be completed and maintained for an appropriate length of time consistent with
relevant management systems.

18. Basic Calculation

Powder factor (PF)

Powder factor is an expression of the weight of explosives used per volume of blasted rock. Powder factor is
often used as the basis of blast design. The pattern and loading design calculated to achieve the design powder
factor may be modified to comply with other requirements.
Calculating a Powder Factor

Calculating linear charge weigh

Linear charge weight = Volume of explosive in linear unit X Specific weight of explosive

Calculating subdrill
The purpose of subdrill is to maintain the required grade level. The length of subdrill required varies according
to geological conditions but is often taken as 1/3 x Burden
Stemming
The function of stemming is to contain the explosion gases to assist in fracturing rock, heave and to reduce
blast nuisances such as air blast and fly rock. Stemming length increases with in blasthole diameter.
General rule of thumb for stemming is 20-30 diameters

19. Bench Preparation and Demarcation

Bench preparation is critical in establishing a safe working environment for all activities associated with

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Factors to consider may include:

a) An inadequately prepared blast area can significantly impact the blasting process, with blastholes not
correctly drilled or charged due to poor accessibility, and subsequent poor blasting outcomes including
oversize, fly rock, fume, misfires etc.
b) Bench preparation carried out prior to drilling may need to be repeated after drilling, particularly the clean-
up between rows for access by personnel and equipment.
c) Inadequate demarcation and security measures can result in additional safety and security risks, particularly
unplanned detonation risks associated with vehicle movements in the vicinity of initiating explosives, and the
unexplained loss or theft of explosives.
d) Adequate bench preparation is required to suit all equipment operating on the blast bench, including drills,
firing device, stemming equipment, light vehicles, refueling vehicles, water carts, etc. This also applies where
large bulk transport vehicles are delivering explosives precursors (ANFO/Emulsion) to reload areas.
e) Grades and cross-grades for access routes and the blast bench must be within the operating range for the
most constrained (least flexible) equipment in use.
f) Adequate turn-around room, or drive-through access, for vehicle traffic on/through the blast area, such that
vehicles do not need to tram over blastholes.
g) Appropriate clearances from high-wall and crest hazards are required for the safety of the blast crew. A
minimum stand-off distance is required from all high-walls or low-walls. Most sites will use a minimum 10m
stand-off dependent on the outcome of a risk assessment. The risk assessment should consider all relevant
issues, including, but not limited to:
− type of high-wall i.e., pre-split or buffer wall.
− the angle/slope along the length of the wall.
− size of the material on the face of the wall.
− visible signs of material rolling off the wall or movement of the wall.
− whether catch berms are in place at the toe of the wall and their condition.
− whether catch benches are in place and their condition.
− constant slope and angle of the wall and possible impact of changing weather conditions on the wall
The high-wall clearance zone should be delineated with a catchment berm to provide an identified barrier for
the blast crew.

If walls show evidence of movement, slabbing or section failure a detailed geotechnical review should be
conducted.
At sites where the blast crew are not in regular attendance or not familiar with the high-walls or low-walls a
risk assessment must be conducted, or half the height of the wall must be used as the stand-off distance.
A crest berm or windrow should be constructed equivalent to half the height of the largest vehicle wheel
working on the bench. If a continuous crest berm or windrow is not achievable, or if cracking or crest damage
extends past the foot of the berm, the crest must be clearly demarcated by a paint line, flutter tape, cones or
other identifiable means at least two meters from the crest edge.
h) The width and stability of narrow terraces within the blast area must be sufficient for all equipment likely to
access those terraces.
i) Bench surfaces to be adequately prepared to provide a safe work area for the shot crew without
unnecessary trip/fall hazards or climbing required. This must be done in a manner that does not push material
into drilled blastholes.
j) Bench surface to be prepared with consideration for natural drainage in the event of rainfall, to avoid
accumulation of water on the shot and/or the creation of boggy ground conditions. Additional drainage may
need to be established to remove accumulated water from the blast area or prevent accumulation after
charging has commenced.
k) Designated vehicle parking areas and tipping areas for stemming material. Access to the blast area is best
restricted to essential vehicles, with non-essential vehicles parked safely outside the perimeter where possible.
Stockpile areas for stemming material are also best maintained outside the blast area, with suitable access and
stable ground for trucks to dump loads of stemming. Where stemming is dumped within the blast area, for
manual stemming or placement by loading equipment, it should be placed prior to the commencement of
priming and charging, with care to avoid driving over or covering drilled holes.
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Following the bench preparation process, the bench standard should be formally accepted, in writing, by those
conducting activities on the bench associated with blasting.
2. Demarcation and Communication of Active Blast Areas
Physical demarcation and signage must be established to minimize the risk of inadvertent access to the blast
area (or on-bench reload area) by unauthorized personnel/equipment, or access to unsafe crests or under
unsafe wall conditions by personnel/equipment on the shot. Safe exclusion distances from all crests and walls
should also be observed.

Demarcation can include a combination of physical barriers (safety berms), traffic cones, bunting, flashing lights
etc. Signage should indicate an active blast area and must also indicate the status of that area (e.g., loaded shot,
tied-up shot). This should include the area on the bench below the shot to prevent personnel and/or equipment
moving too close to the face.
Demarcation and signage also define the secure blast area within which explosives security restrictions apply
and unsupervised personnel are required to hold security clearance and site authorization. Unauthorized
persons must obtain permission from the Shotfirer (or other authorized person) prior to entering the blast area
(or reload area). A guard should be positioned to prevent unauthorized access if other supervision, inspection
and security measures are not deemed adequate.
Communication of active blast areas (where charging has commenced) can be facilitated via suitable blast
boards and at pre-shift meetings, so all personnel are aware of blasting locations, clearance areas and the
route(s) being used to transport explosives to/from those locations.

A traffic management plan should be used to define entry/exit points for vehicles, park-up areas, reload areas,
and the required loading sequence.

20. Blast Design

Blast Geometry

Blast hole inclination

Both vertical blast holes and inclined blast holes can be used in bench blasting. As the inclined holes are drilled
in parallel with the front face of the bench, the holes of the first row have a uniform burden along the length
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The diameter which are used for rock blasting usually the range 38 – 150 mm.
Height of Bench
Heigh of bench is limited by the design requirements of the project / Aramco
Burden
Burden is one of the most critical parameters in bench blasting. The value of the burden is controlled by the
rock blast ability, the diameter of the blast hole and the performance of explosive charged.
Spacing
The distance between adjacent blast holes, measured perpendicular to the burden, is spacing.
Sub Drilling
To avoid leaving a hump or toe in bench floor after blasting, the blast holes are drilled below the floor level.
Stemming
Stemming is the portion of blast hole which has been packed with inert material above the charge in order to
confine and retain the gases produced by the explosion, thus improving the fragmentation process. Most
stemming material ~ 4mm crushed stone.

Optimum stemming length varies between 25d to 40d (where d is diameter of the drill hole)
Blast hole pattern
In surface blasting, there are two types of blast hole patterns, quadrangular pattern and staggered pattern. For
improving bench top fragmentation, when blasthole pattern is large than 2.5 x 2.5 m in hard rock, some
additional small charge can be used.

The main aim of the blast design is to safely place explosives where they will do the most work. This means
that most of the explosive’s energy is used to advantage and little possible is wasted. The results of any blast
will depend on the total amount of explosive energy, how quickly energy released, the positions of charges
and strength of rock around the explosives.

Design Principals
Burning front
Immediately after an explosive column detonates the rock surrounding it begins top fracture and displace. This
is an essential, and desirable, part of the fragmentation process. Where the ground is weak, laminar or heavily
jointed and where weaknesses in the collar region exist the blast effects may extend over a considerabledistance.
The distance between detonating holes and the nearest unfired initiation surface connection is knownas the
burning front.

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Angle of Initiation and Direction of Movement

This concept has come to the fore with the introduction of nonelectric surface delays into blasting.
The angle of initiation is the angle at which the initiation front passes through the blast. It can link to a detonating
cord tie, where detonating cord is used the angle of initiation is along the cord trunklines on the blast.
The direction of movement is the preferred direction of rock movement under the influence of the blast. It is
the direction of displacement of the center of mass of the material from in-situ to muck pile.
The direction of movement is at right angle to the angle of initiation. Other factors that can alter the muck pile
movement are confinement, resistance and friction.

Spacing timing Influence on Fragmentation

For extremely brittle hard rocks the intra-row delay should be reduced as the response tome of the rock mass is
reduced. The optimum spacing timing will be such that all radial cracks from the first blasthole have developed
as far as possible, and explosive gases have started to move the burden rock of the blasthole away from the face.

Burden timing influence on heave

To achieve maximum throw in multiple row blasts, timing between the row must be long enough that previously
fired materials is well away and doesn’t hinder the forward movement of that mass which is about to be fired.

The combination of spacing and burden timing elements is often describing as “Relief”.
Main Points – Blast Design
a) The main aim of blast design is to safely place explosives where they will do the most useful work and
produce a minimum of undesirable results.
b) The result of any surface blast will always depend on the properties of rock surrounding the explosives.
c) Blast design must consider explosives properties, the size and positions of charges, the firing sequence and
delay times between charges.
d) Typical blast design guidelines are based on “ideal “conditions, including consistent rock properties and
geometry.
e) To break rock most efficiently, blastholes are usually drilled parallel to an open free face which is suitable
“burden” distance away.
f) Blast design must include details of priming, including the type and number of primers used, and their
positions inside blastholes.
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g) A bench blast design will also specify details of the proposed initiation sequence and delay timing between
charges.
h) The lead hole should generally be close to a free face or corner so that it can break out effectively.
i) All blast must be documented and recorded as part of statutory requirement.

21. Measuring and Priming Blastholes

The measuring and priming process requires the handling and management of sensitive initiating explosives and
must be carried out by authorized and appointed personnel. This part of the blasting process must be conducted
in a controlled, sequential manner to facilitate the tracking of explosives usage, and minimize the risk of
damage/impact to initiating explosives from vehicles in the blast area.

1. General
The following activities and/or considerations will help to ensure safe and efficient on-bench activities
associated with measuring and priming of blastholes:

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a) Ensure that the blast area is suitable for charging activities, and that charging activities will not be
compromised by other activities, such as bench preparation, drilling, excavation or vehicle movements in an
adjacent area.
b) A clear blasthole identification system (such as row and blasthole number) must be in place to allow the
correct treatment of all blastholes. This can be done by marking blasthole ID’s on a peg or other marker at the
collar.
c) Ensure that blastholes have been drilled to design (diameter, spacing, burden, location, depth, angle, and
orientation) prior to charging, by reference to the blast pack showing the required layout and any available drill
logs. If this is unclear discuss with the supervisor, drill operator and/or engineer to clarify.
d) Variances in blast parameters require further assessment prior to charging, or remedial action such as re-
drilling, backfilling or adjustments to the blast design such as charge quantity or initiation sequence. Acceptable
variances must be communicated clearly to the Shotfirer, as such variances may be more critical in some cases
(for example stem height variation when blasting near infrastructure, or explosives selection in fume-prone
areas).
e) Where re-drills are required adjacent to (or within) the blast pattern, priming and charging of blastholes must
be managed to prevent drilling in close proximity to explosives, with minimum acceptable drilling clearances
from any charged blasthole. This must take into account the separation of angled and/or deviated holes at depth,
and equipment capability. Re-drilling within, or adjacent to, a loaded shot and loading operations must take place
under supervision of the Shotfirer, with clearly defined exclusion zones in accordance with applicable legislation
and approved site practices. The relocation route of the drill and ancillary equipment (fuel and water trucks)
through the blast area must be clearly defined and managed to avoid damage to other blastholes.
f) Clear blocked holes where possible to allow the placement of correct charge quantities. Where blastholes
cannot be charged, or changes to priming requirements and/or charge quantities are identified outside the
expected range for the blast area, this must be communicated to the supervisor for authorization, and recorded.
g) Where blastholes have been drilled too deep they are to be back-filled with suitable stemming material (or
drill cuttings in dry conditions) to achieve the required depth in the presence of short firer.
h) Where blastholes have been redrilled, then previous ‘abandoned’ blastholes are to be identified and filled
with suitable stemming material. Alternatively, ‘abandoned’ blastholes can be sealed with a gas bag and
stemmed to prevent ejection when adjacent holes are fired. However, the creation of a cavity in close proximity
to a charged blasthole should be assessed as it is likely to affect localized blast performance and may also result
in additional fume.
i) When blastholes have been sealed at the collar with a gas bag then caution must be used when removing
these devices to avoid ejection of material towards the operator’s face.
j) Where elevated temperature and/or reactive ground is expected or encountered, specific blasting
procedures, explosives and controls will be required.
h) Where blastholes are to be dewatered this must be carried out prior to the placement of any explosives in
the blasthole, and in a sequence that avoids run-off into dry or previously dewatered blastholes and avoids the
creation of boggy conditions for operating equipment. A sufficient delay between de-watering and charging the
blasthole is necessary to determine if ‘dynamic’ water is present, as this will influence the product type loaded
and the sleep time available.

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2. Measurement
All blastholes must be measured prior to charging, in the event that re-drills or adjusted charging is required. If
measurement was carried out prior to the day of charging, and a physical change to the blasthole is likely (e.g.
following a rain event or wind), then it is recommended that blastholes be re-measured prior to charging.
Blastholes are to be measured with a suitable (non-ferrous) weighted measuring tape or cord, of adequate
length, to measure the deepest blastholes. Check that the tape has not been damaged and starts at the ‘zero’
mark.
Depths are to be measured from the bottom of the blasthole to the collar at the bench surface, disregarding the
height of the drill cuttings, and recorded on a blasthole-by-blasthole basis.
End of tape must be attached to a small rock by string so that the tape rolls down quicker without obstructions.

In addition to the depth of the blasthole, it is also advisable to

record the depth of water in the hole and the extent of wet/damp
sidewalls on the blasthole dipping sheet. Also note any evidence
of collapse of the blasthole. This assists with appropriate bulk
explosive selection and provides guidance inthe event that post-
blast fume is generated. An assessment is to be made in the event
of broken ground at the collar, reduced free-face burdens,
excessive toe burdens, or reduced stand-off from broken ground,
as to whether adjusted stem heights, primer locations and charge
quantities are required.
Where the variation in front row burdens is critical, due to flyrock
or overpressure risk, measurement of face geometry and
blasthole deviation may be required with laser profiling and
borehole tracking systems. Adjusted charge quantities, gravel
decking and increased stem heights may then be required.
Where elevated temperature blasthole conditions are experienced or anticipated, temperature measurement
will also be required. Specific explosives products and blast management protocols then apply.
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

Where specific strata or ground conditions needs to be identified (e.g. through-seam blasting, or blasting near
underground workings), the use of geophysical logging equipment or borehole camera equipment may be
required to identify the location of target horizons or structures. More accurate placement of explosive charges
and aggregate decks will then be required.
3. Priming
Priming considerations should include the following:
a) Initiating explosives used in blasting need to be compatible with each other, with the bulk explosives used
and with the environment in which the blasting is to be carried out. Further, they need to be used in accordance
with the manufacturer’s/supplier’s recommendations.
b) A record of initiating explosives taken from the magazine, used, and returned to the magazine, must be
maintained as required under the Site Security Plan. Boosters and detonators must be kept separate until
assembly as primers immediately prior to placement in the blasthole.
c) The required number of boosters and downlines should be available for the shift, and laid out at the blasthole
collars as required, with a peg (or other suitable retention device) to secure the downline at the collar.
d) Place initiating explosives on the same side of each blasthole in the row or echelon, on the opposite side from
that being used by charging and stemming equipment (depending on traffic management guidelines for the blast
area).
e) Carry out priming (and subsequent charging) in an identified sequence to facilitate the tracking of explosives
usage and minimize the risk of damage/impact to initiating explosives from vehicles in the blast area.
f) The use of initiating explosives retention devices at blasthole collars should be considered for the
housekeeping of initiating explosives, as there is a potential for detonators and boosters to be misplaced within
the drill cuttings or in soft/muddy ground or fall into the blasthole during or after placement. Further, such
identification and retention minimize the potential for interaction with vehicles in the area.
g) Do not throw or mistreat initiating explosives. When making up primers, a detonator must not be forced into
the booster. When cutting detonating cord, approved cutters must be used. Primers should be lowered carefully
into the blasthole, not allowed to free fall to the bottom of the hole.
h) Primers are to be positioned as per decking guidelines (i.e. primed at the top, middle or bottom of the deck),
subject to blasthole depth and blasthole condition.
i) In water-filled blastholes the primer(s) is normally lowered to the bottom of the blasthole at the start of
pumping and pulled up into the explosive column as it is charged. A member of the blast crew must monitor
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

the primer when charging wet blastholes, to ensure floating of the primer on top of the explosive column is
prevented.
j) Additional primers may also be required in broken ground or areas likely to generate significant post-blast NOx
fumes. Such primers should be timed to initiate simultaneously within the explosives column to eliminate the
potential for column disruption, resulting in misfires.
k) Once primed, downlines must be secured at the blasthole collar, usually on the same side of the blasthole.
Loose tails must also be secured at the collar preferably on the side away from the charging vehicle, where they
cannot be driven over or caught by passing traffic.
l) Primers should not be left unsupervised overnight in uncharged blastholes where they present a security risk.
Where direct supervision cannot be satisfactorily addressed, primers must be removed from the blasthole,
disassembled, and returned to the magazine.
m) Collect all waste packaging and dispose of according to site waste management practices. Check that such
packaging is empty of all explosive products and ‘Explosives’ markings removed/covered prior to disposal.
n) The recording and reconciliation of initiating explosive quantities must be carried out against the quantities
specified in the blast design, and the quantities issued from and returned to the magazine to identify correct
usage and unexplained losses. Unexplained losses must be reported in accordance with site and regulatory
requirements.

22. Charging and Stemming Blastholes

The charging and stemming process requires close attention to quality control, in terms of charge quantities,
column rise, and stem height. Equally important is the need for safe on-bench traffic management, in terms of
the interaction between equipment and personnel and the use of large equipment close to charged blastholes
and initiating explosives.
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

1 Bulk Explosives Selection and Delivery

The following factors are relevant:
a) Bulk explosives must be charged under the supervision of the Shotfirer, to design charge mass and column
rise as per design guidelines (charge sheets) and to suit the ground conditions encountered.
b) Blasthole conditions (rock type, depth, wet holes, wet/damp walled conditions, geological conditions, and
likely sleep time) will determine bulk explosives selection. Blast designs must clearly indicate the conditions under
which specific bulk explosives can (or cannot) be used. Suitable blasthole identification and records must be
maintained to ensure correct charging.
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

c) Bulk explosives must be selected with appropriate properties for the intended application, including water
resistance, minimum diameter, critical density, and depth limitation, and suitable explosive performance for the
ground type and pattern size being used.
d) Dry hole explosives (ANFO) can be augured into dry blastholes, or dry-sided blastholes where contact with
water at the toe has been effectively sealed with a gas bag and drill cuttings (If required).
e) Pumped emulsion blends suitable for wet conditions can be pumped into blastholes containing water, as long
as the hose is lowered to the bottom of the hole and retracted slowly during the pumping process in order to
effectively displace water from the hole, rather than entrap it within the explosive’s column. These blends
must not be pumped into a wet blasthole from the collar, as this will seriously degrade the product. The presence
of dynamic (flowing) water requires a bulk explosive with good water resistance and ongoing monitoring to
ensure that the column is not being washed away. Dynamic water can degrade a column of pumped emulsion,
even if loaded correctly.
f) Blasthole loading is to be sequenced in such a manner that water displaced from wet holes does not run into
previously loaded dry holes, or (where possible) create boggy conditions in areas still to be loaded. The
treatment of blastholes as dry, damp or wet should also take into consideration the condition of surrounding
blastholes, and whether significant rainfall runoff and water accumulation in low areas is anticipated.
g) When charging decked holes (particularly in pre-split or through-seam applications) additional care is
required in terms of primer location, column rise, positioning of gas bags and stemming material.

2. Managing Vehicles in Blast Area

The charging process is to be managed in a manner that allows the efficient and safe use of charging and
stemming equipment, bearing in mind the interaction required between members of the shot crew working in
close proximity to large mobile equipment.
Good communication between all personnel within the blast area is required to ensure safe work and to ensure
that vehicles do not drive over charged blastholes or initiating explosives. Consistent radio communication
and/or hand signals must be understood by all personnel (Refer to the site Traffic Management Plan).

Where necessary, a spotter shall be used to assist the operator of mobile equipment maneuver close to walls
and crests, in close proximity to blastholes on tight patterns, when reversing or turning around on the bench, or
in any situation where restricted visibility presents a risk.
All attempts should be made to prevent driving over blasthole collars, regardless of whether they are empty,
primed or charged. If this is unavoidable then empty blastholes should be sealed with a gas bag to prevent
backfilling, and primed holes must have their primers removed and be similarly sealed. Under exceptional
circumstances it may be necessary to traverse a charged blasthole. In this case, a risk assessment must first be
conducted, and were deemed acceptable, visible downlines must be buried within the stemming zone and a
spotter used to direct the vehicle such that it can safely straddle those blastholes and not drive over the collars.
 Arabian Arrow Mining Company

Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

Blastholes are to be charged systematically, in sections on large shots, allowing completion of a reduced blast
area if unfavorable conditions are likely to prevent firing within the required timeframe. Where blastholes
cannot be safely charged or stemmed using explosives trucks or stemming vehicles, such holes may need to be

charged and stemmed by hand

In case, charging during hours of darkness requires additional controls and safety measures that include specific
risk assessment, appropriate lighting, not working directly under or above any walls reduced vehicle access into
the blast area, and additional demarcation (e.g. flashing lights).

3. Charging Quantities
During charging operations, consideration should be given to the following:
a) Check column rise during charging using a bobbing tape or dip stick, to ensure that blastholes are not over (or
under) loaded outside acceptable tolerances for the blast. Delivered charge mass and measured deck length will
usually be close to expected values, based on bulk explosive density and the nominal blasthole diameter,
otherwise additional checks will need to be made.
b) Bulk explosive density and charge mass may need to be increased where excessive toe burdens are identified
at the face, or adjacent to short holes, to achieve a higher localized powder factor. This should only be done
following consultation with the Shotfirer.
c) Bulk explosive quantities may need to be reduced (or removed) from free-face blastholes with inadequate
burden to contain explosive energy, or in areas of broken ground.
d) Where blastholes have been under-charged, additional top-up amounts may be acceptable within design
charging and stem height guidelines. Stem heights should not be reduced to accommodate design charges.
e) Where blastholes have been overcharged, excess product may need to be removed. Following a satisfactory
risk assessment, an approved scoop or vacuum equipment appropriate for the task may be used to remove bulk
explosives and stemming in order to achieve correct column rise or height. Care must be taken to ensure metal
parts are removed from hoses and to secure downlines. This process must be carried out under supervision of
the Shotfirer. Alternatively, excess bulk explosives can be purged (displaced) from the blasthole using water
pumped from the explosives truck or a water cart.
f) If bulk explosives appear to be running away in broken ground (e.g., a lack of column rise) charging must be
halted and the situation assessed on a case-by-case basis. The subsequent behavior of that charge (when
detonated) will be uncertain, with a potential for excessive fly rock, overpressure or fume. The safest practice
is to attempt to remove the primer (if possible) then stem and abandon the hole. Alternatively, charging shoul
 Arabian Arrow Mining Company

Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

be halted, the Shotfirer contacted and an appropriate process determined e.g. a risk assessment is carried out
and an increased blast exclusion zone considered;
g) Care must be taken not to lose downlines in the blasthole during the charging and stemming process.
Preferably, downlines are to be hand-held during charging/stemming or, if this is not possible, secured at the
collar. If lost downlines cannot be retrieved, then the blasthole must be reprimed prior to further charging; (with
accounting for any additional explosives required).
h) If bulk explosives have slumped after charging and the downlines lost and unrecoverable, the blasthole will
need to be re-primed with additional charging in an attempt to minimize the risk of misfires. Such holes represent
additional misfire risk and must be recorded and checked after firing; (with accounting for any additional
explosives required).
i) The location of overloaded blastholes must be communicated to the Shotfirer while charging is still taking
place in the blast area. If this cannot be rectified then increased blast clearance distances may need to be applied.
j) When using packaged explosives in small diameter and pre-split applications, follow supplier guidelines
regarding priming practices, placement and securing at the collar. Additional care needs to be taken to ensure
that packaged product is reliably positioned along the length of the blasthole, suitably primed and securely
fastened to avoid loss down the hole.
k) Recording and reconciliation of the quantities of explosives (and raw materials) delivered according to the
delivery docket, should be carried out against the quantities specified in the blast design, and those loaded on
a hole-by-hole basis during charging. This provides a check against average density and the ratio of AN, ANE and
diesel in blended explosives.

4. Stemming
Stemming should be placed to design depths with previous bulk explosive column height checked after charging.
Stem heights should be recorded to a specified accuracy, consistent with a safe and environmentally acceptable
blast design.
Stemming must not commence in blastholes containing gassed explosives until such explosives have had
sufficient time to reach their design density, and a check has been made that design column rise has been
achieved and meets the requirements of the shot design.
Appropriate stemming material (size, type and quality) must be used. If aggregate stemming is specified, but not
available, an increased length of drill cuttings may be required (dry holes only) to achieve adequate confinement
and must be authorized by the Shotfirer or relevant site representative.
During the placement of stemming, either by mechanical or manual methods, downlines need to be secured to
prevent loss down the blasthole, and to ensure that they are not damaged. Stemming should be delivered at a
rate that minimizes the risk of bridging of the stemming column. Ideally, a spotter should be available to assist
and protect downlines during the stemming process.
Stem heights may need to be increased where broken ground is evident at the collar, or where reduced face
burdens are identified for the blasthole profile. Aggregate decks may be required where reduced burdens are
identified lower in the blasthole profile. Actual stem heights and aggregate deck lengths should be recorded.
In wet holes, additional time needs to be provided to enable stemming to seat effectively.
Downlines can be loosened after stemming to reduce the risk of stretching or snapping due to possible slumping.
Blastholes that have slumped after stemming must be recorded and reported to the Shotfirer. These holes shall
be monitored, have their downlines loosened where necessary and re-secured and the stemming topped up as
appropriate.
Note: Precautions need to be taken to prevent interaction between the downlines and personnel/traffic.
Uncharged blastholes must be backfilled, to prevent excessive venting/cratering when adjacent blastholes are
fired.

23. Surface Tie-Up

1. General
while minimizing the risk of undesired outcomes such as fly rock, overpressure, misfires and
poor fragmentation.
The following careful consideration should be followed when surface connection.
a) All non-essential vehicles must be removed from the blast area (or from the immediate vicinity of blastholes
being connected), prior to the placement and connection of surface delays under the supervision of the
Shotfirer. Tying up should not commence in an area through which vehicle traffic is still required.
b) The required number of surface delays (of the correct delay and length) should be available for the blast and
laid out at the blasthole collars as required. Surface delays should be placed on the same side of each blasthole
in line with the row, to assist in their visibility. Initiating explosives must not be thrown or otherwise
mistreated.
c) Blastholes should be tied up as indicated on the tie-up plan (or instructions) provided in the blast pack.
d) Slumped holes must be topped up with stemming or drill cuttings immediately prior to tie-up where
possible and recorded.
e) Where weather conditions prevent the firing of a tied-up shot during the shift, the shot will be untied in the
first instance, however if that shot is to remain tied up overnight additional controls will be required. These
include disconnection of the control row, and any holes beneath a wall; supervision of the tied-up shot unless
site security is deemed adequate without this; additional signage (e.g., shot tied-up) and demarcation such as
flashing lights. Shots must not, however, be tied up during hours of darkness, or if it is not planned to fire the
shot until the following day.
f) On completion of surface tie-up, all unused explosives are to be returned to the magazine, and empty boxes
checked prior to disposal. The lead-in-line can be placed at the initiation hole but must not be connected until
the blast exclusion zone has been cleared and secured to prevent inadvertent access.
g) Recording and reconciliation of the quantities of surface delays are to be carried out against the quantities
specified in the blast design, and the quantities issued from and returned to the magazine, in order to identify
correct usage and unexplained losses.

2. Shock Tube system

When employing signal tube detonator initiating systems the following factors should be considered:
a) Blastholes must be sequenced with the initiation point, inter-hole delays, inter-row delays and firing
direction shown on the tie-up plan. Where additional or missing blastholes occur, alternative timing options or
dummy delays can be employed to maintain the timing between rows and echelons as closely as possible.
b) Blastholes are to be connected along rows or echelons, leaving the control ‘row’ until all other holes have
been connected.
c) Ensure that surface connections are made in a logical sequential manner, to avoid missed holes, and used
according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
d) While connecting surface delays at the collar, check downlines for damage (e.g., cuts) that could result
in misfire. Place surface clips at the collar to facilitate checking, unless such units require burial.
e) The design capacity of surface connectors/clips is not to be exceeded, and outgoing tubes should be parallel
(not crossed), with the jaws of the clip closed to retain them
f) Ensure that surface lines are on not pulled too tight and have sufficient slack and tails to allow some
freedom to move during firing as burden movement begins.
g) Once all holes have been connected, the shot must be visually inspected to ensure all connections have
been made correctly, with suitably experienced members of the shot crew checking each other’s work.
h) When tie-up has been checked, the blast area must be cleared of personnel and equipment, and unused
initiating explosives returned to the magazine and properly reconciled.
i) Appropriate security and safety controls such as barriers, demarcation, signage and supervision must remain
in place to prevent unauthorized or inadvertent access to the blast area, until effective blast clearance has taken
place ready for firing. Once surface connection has been completed, a nominated member of the blast crew
must stay in attendance until the Shotfirer returns to connect the lead-in line.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

3. Electronic System
When employing electronic detonator initiating systems, the following factors are relevant:
a) There is a number of electronic detonator systems available for initiation. These should not be inter-mixed
and should only be used in accordance with the relevant manufacturer’s/supplier’s directions.
b) A tie-up plan, with firing times for each hole and deck of explosive and programming/logging path, must be
available prior to connection. This may have been generated using a computer program compatible with the
electronic system being utilized, or using some other system;
c) Electronic detonators should be logged in accordance with the manufacturer’s/supplier’s recommendations.
d) Once programming/logging is complete, test for leakage, missing detonators, and unprogrammed
detonators, and rectify where possible.
e) Prior to connection, test firing line continuity (if using a wired blasting control box) or radio communication
(if using a remote blasting box) to ensure any issues can be rectified prior to firing time.
f) Once the blast exclusion zone has been cleared, and the site radio procedures followed, the security system
can be enabled and firing procedure for the shot can commence. If necessary, document all error messages
during the firing procedure and rectify where possible.
g) If the electronic system allows the blast to continue after notifying of potential errors, it is the Shotfirer’s
responsibility to assess the situation before allowing the blast to continue with known issues.
h) Adhere to the specific minimum re-entry times required by each system (depending on voltage bleeding
rate) before the post-blast inspection or if the blast is aborted due to an error that requires re-entry. Typical
minimum re-entry time is 5 minutes post-firing as long as there is no fume or fire visible.
i) Never connect electronic detonators to energy sources other than those designed to be used with the
specific systems.
j) Never connect conventional electric detonators to electronic detonator circuits or electronic detonator
control equipment.
k) Never connect electronic detonators from different suppliers to the same circuit or different suppliers’
electronic detonator control equipment.
l) Never use an electronic system unless trained in its use and passed as competent by the supplier. Always use
approved electronic system devices and hardware for each system.
m) Ensure the security system which allows firing of the electronic system is secure.
n) When lightning is suspected to have hit the general blast area, re-test all detonators for leakage and damage
and remove any damaged detonators from the control line – do not attempt to fire downlines showing heavy
leakage or damage.

24. Initiation Sequencing Methods

1. Paddock blasting
Paddock blasting is the instantaneous initiation od either all charges or large group of charges together. This
type of blasting achieves its best result in relatively soft material.
The advantage of paddock firing are that no cut-off will occur and that it is simple.
Disadvantages include poor blast performance and excessive levels of ground vibration and air blast commonly
fired by detonating cord with no delays.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

2. Row by row blasting

In this type of blast, holes within each row are initiated simultaneously and the blast is sequenced to fire one
row at a time. Rows of holes are taken parallel to the principle free face. In a multi-row shot there would be
time delay between rows so that, for example, the front row may fire at zero milliseconds and the third row at
50 millisecond and so on.
3. Firing a VEE
A VEE firing is generally necessary where no free face end exists as a natural starting point for a blast or where
there is a desire to restrict forward movement of a blast. In a VEE firing hole are fired in a sequence that
forms a VEE shape from front to back.
4. Hole by hole firing
Hole by hole firing describes a blast sequence designed such that each blasthole is fired at a distinct, regularly
spaced moment in time with respect to the blastholes surrounding it. There may be several holes firing
together within the blast however they will be far enough apart so as not to influence each other.
Hole by hole firing delivers the best blasting result by maximizing fragmentation and minimizing blast impacts.
5. Single hole firing
Single hole firing is a specific case of hole-by-hole firing. In single hole blasts there can only be one blasthole
firing on ant one delay time in the whole blast. This is done to reduce the amount of explosive firing at any one
instant in time, (The Maximum Instantaneous Charge, MIC) when environmental constrains are in place.

25. Implementation Plans

The following plans and responsibilities have been identified from the Risk
Assessment and must be executed before the commencement of the project.
ACTIONS PERSON
Establish “No Smoking” onsite while explosives are onsite
Obtain/submit notifications to Work cover
Provide written and verbal communications to neighbors if applicable
Provide additional blast sentries (2) where needed
Provide stemming (7-10 mm clean drainage aggregate)
and place in piles
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

Design, Load and Fire Blast

Prepare Blast Clearance Procedure and instruct sentries
Monitor Gas Pipeline during blasting operations
Provide access to existing pipeline for monitoring
Provide Vibrograph instrument for vibration monitor
All personnel involved in Risk Assessment meeting to sign off
All personnel involved in job to sign onto this document
Upon completion of all blasting operations and only after a physical check of the blasted debris has been
satisfactorily completed, the site in charge will give the “ALL CLEAR” and allow those personnel to return to the
worksite.

26. SAFETY PROCEDURES

All explosive movement will take place in police approved vehicles/containers accompanied by their security.
All the work of movement of explosives as well as charging & blasting will take place under the supervision of
Police & Licensed Blasting Engineer.
a. Sign boards “DANGER BLASTING ZONE “will be posted at required places so that all the people in the
vicinity is aware.
b. No battery-operated equipment’s like GSM, camera, radio transmitters etc. will be allowed beyond this point.
c. No unauthorized persons will be allowed to enter the blasting area.
d. The area to be blasted will be clearly demarcated by posting red flags around it.
e. All vehicles and equipment will be kept away from the blasting area.
f. Detonators will be stored in a separate box specially made for the purpose shall be in the custody of the Police
or
licensed blasting engineer till all of them are not consumed.
g. Metallic tools will not be used for pricking or cutting of explosives or accessories. Cutting tools will be of brass
or
non-sparking material.
h. Lighter, cigars, match sticks, fuels, gases stored at high pressure etc. shall not be carried in the explosive
carrying trucks or to be stored at the blasting site.
i. Ten minutes before commencing the charging, the blasting engineer will ensure that there are no machines in
a
radius of 500 m of the blasting area.
j. Blasting Engineer will fire from a point from where he can have a clear view of the blast site and the guards
posted for cordoning the area.
k. Signaling arrangement will be established for communication between the blasting engineer and the guards
posted.
1. Visual: Using different colored flags
a. Red: All entries closed and ready to blast.
b. Green: Firing the blast.
c. White: All clearance for resumption of work.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

27. Emergency Evacuation Plan

An assembly point will be marked outside the danger zone of blasting and all concerned shall be informed. All
concerned shall report there in case of any emergency. All persons other than those required for blasting shall
be
evacuated to a safe place before blasting. Persons will not take shelter under any temporary structures or at
places
other than those indicated by the Blasting Engineer, Police on duty or the guards deputed for the purpose
Emergency scenarios relevant to blast activities include those that could lead to the unplanned detonation of
explosives, such as lightning strike, fire on an explosive’s vehicle, heating caused by elevated temperatures
or reactive ground, and those that could result in significant misfire risks such as major wall failure above a
blast area or flooding. These scenarios are managed according to site emergency response procedures.
In the event of an emergency situation that could lead to unplanned detonation, all personnel working within
the designated Blast Exclusion Zone must be evacuated. Blast guards must be posted to the relevant positions
to ensure that the effects of any potential unplanned initiation are minimized.
In the case of lightning, established response procedures should define how to identify the point at which an
approaching thunderstorm is considered a risk. The communication and clearance protocols necessary to
evacuate and secure the emergency blast exclusion zone and re-entry procedures. Storm warning systems
should be utilized so that sufficient time is available to empty MPU hoses and augers, evacuate equipment and
personnel, and secure safe exclusion zones around the blast area and explosives vehicle park-up area.
In the case of a fire on an explosives transport vehicle an attempt to extinguish must only be made if the fire has
been witnessed to have just started, if it is safe to do so (i.e., not directly associated with an AN, ANFO or
explosives storage area), and the person has been appropriately trained. In such cases, an emergency is to be
called on the radio, the vehicle fuel isolated and the fire managed with on-board extinguishers. Otherwise, the
area shall be immediately evacuated and an emergency exclusion zone established, with no other vehicles are
to enter the area. The fire will be managed by the fire response team and re-entry prevented until the fire has
burned out and the area has been cleared.
In the case of expected flooding or wall failure, where immediate evacuation is not deemed necessary,
restricted access may apply while the partially completed blast is prepared for firing to remove an otherwise
significant misfire risk at a later time.
In emergency response scenarios, personnel may be directed to close the roadways and access paths to the
designated Blast Exclusion Zone for the duration of the emergency event at the discretion of the site
management team.
In accordance with site emergency procedures and/or the explosives company emergency procedures, the Blast
Exclusion Zone may be altered from the original plan, with due consideration given to the risk potential of the
situation. In this event the parameters of the Blast Exclusion Zone will be communicated to all personnel in
accordance with site procedures.
Before the trial blasting for intake area, site emergency team shall be organized and require emergency
equipment shall arrive at the site.
When work is carried out in the intake area, a fully functional and suitably equipped ambulance with driver and
a paramedical staff trained in First Aid shall be available close to the site of works and not obstruct with
movement of construction machinery and personnel or performance of construction activity.
The Contractor shall also provide trained crew in the immediate vicinity of ongoing works at all times that work
is taking place, in case of emergency.
At the workface entrance, one Sign Board for emergency shall be set and all signs shall be described in three
languages: English, Arabic and Urdu. And post all emergency response telephone numbers, including medical
response and fire department, phone numbers of all site supervisors. Plan should be clearly communicated and
understood by all personnel.
In case of emergency or accident, the discoverer shall immediately report to the employer, the engineer
Supervisor
and the project manager after verification, meanwhile calling the emergency telephone, and report the specific
situation to the engineer and the employer after investigation and verification.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

28. Pre-Blast Meeting
At an agreed time (e.g., 10 mins) prior to the blast firing time the nominated Blast Guards will meet at the blast
location.
At this time, prior to conducting the Blast Guard Meeting, a general radio announcement will be made to all site
personnel indicating the firing of the blast at e.g., 10:00hrs. This notification should include the blast
Identification, the blast location and the type of blast. This will be accompanied by sirens to warn people even
from far that blasting activities are to take place.
Confirmation of the blast notification from the production superintendent and Open Cut Examiner, where
applicable, is required.
The pre-blast meeting must involve the following personnel:
− Shotfirer
− Blast Supervisor
− Sweepers
− Blast Guards
− Safety Officer and
− Other personnel relevant to the blast.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss:

a) The Blast Area Exclusion Zone plan (equipment, personnel and fume)
b) The designated 2-way radio channel to be used for the blast location
c) The firing location
d) The issued Blast Guard location information sheets which will indicate: -
− the position of Blast Guards
− the Blast Guard positions in relation to any change in the original blast design parameters or identified
hazards
− the relevant Blast Guard numbers
− the Sweepers and assigned areas
− the process for the clearance of the blast area, including the positioning of machines and any ancillary
equipment; and
− any exceptional circumstances relating to the blast.
Prior to completion of the meeting, all Blast Guards and Sweepers shall verify their understanding of their
position and area requirements.
All personnel involved with the blast should conduct a radio check to ensure the allocated radio is on the
correct channel and operable before dispersing to their nominated position

29. Monitor and Control Manual

1. Ground vibration
2. Fly rock
3. Noise and Overpressure
4. Spillage and Pollution
5. Fume and Dust

Ground Vibration
The ground vibration from blasting is the radiation of mechanical energy within a rock mass or soil. The
magnitude of the ground vibration together with ground vibration frequency are commonly used to define
damage criteria.
To limit MIC on a production blast a number of options are available. In order of application these would be
Fire single hole per delay. Every hole in the blast is separated in delay from every other hole in the blast. Place
an inert, stemming deck into the blast hole and fire single deck per delay. This will reduce the MIC below what
is loaded into a single hole. Realistically two decks are achievable in a production environment although three
deck blasts in very tight conditions have also been used.
Reduce blast hole diameter. This will have a significant effect on MIC but may require different drills to be used.
Also a large reduction in diameter will incur a significant cost increase and may result in drill deviation errors.
Reduce explosives density. May be of benefit where the allowable MIC is only slightly exceeded.

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The vibration that results from a blast can be calculated using a formula of form

PPV = K(R/Qi)-b
Were,
PPV – Predicted peak particle velocity in mm/s
K – a constant which is determined by the characteristics of the ground that the vibration passes through and
affected by the explosive’s power.
Q – Maximum charge weight per delay interval in kg
R – Distance in m between the blast and the measuring point
d – Charge exponent (d = ½)
b – Attenuation exponent
Follow limitation on ground vibration and Overpressure as per EPM / Aramco instruction.

Care of the seismograph

The leading problems experienced by seismograph users are usually caused by:
Dirt in the printer/plotter. Don't leave the instrument (and especially the printer compartment) open in the
field. When stowing ice geoponic. Micro phone and microphone stand, wipe off the dirt and mud before
putting them in the accessory compartment. Vacuum out the unit occasionally.
Failure to keep the batteries charged. A fully charged instrument should monitor for one or two weeks or
longer before the battery becomes too low to power the instrument, Follow the manufacturer's instructions
on charging the battery. The better units utilize a voltage regulator that will not allow the battery to
overcharge, even if it is left on the charger for extended periods of time. If the battery will not hold an
adequate charge, the unit probably needs servicing.
The control of blast induced ground vibration is based in the principle of Maximum Instantaneous Charge
(MIC). MIC is the quality of explosives detonated in an instant. It is important that the time and date on the
instrument's clock be reasonably accurate.
This ties the record to a specific event. This is especially important if you are using the instrument in a

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

continuous monitoring mode and are leaving it set out to record a series of events.

Seismograph calibration
When monitoring for legal protection purposes, have the instrument calibrated annually. Between
calibrations, the instrument's self-check is usually sufficient to verify that the sensors are function properly
and that the geophone is sufficiently level to provide an accurate reading.
Measurement of Air blast
Air blast is measured in decibels (dB) using the `Li scale. This scale relates to the pressure of the air pulses
travelling through the air. Note that the 'A' scale often used to measure industrial noise as it is weighted for
human response.
The relationship between Air Overpressure and Scaled distance

AOP = 164- 24log10(D/Q1/3)

were,
AOP – Air Overpressure
D – Distance between blasting area and monitoring point
Q – Maximum charge weight per delay
Control measures
a) Control burdens (requires measurement!)
b) Downhole / deck through short burdens
c) `Soft start' - reduce charge diameter / density in lead holes
d) Fire lead holes on slower delays
e) Fire faster to reduce dislocation and loss of confinement
f) Quality of stemming
g) Quantity of stemming - burden
h) Accuracy of loading collars
i) `Sludge' and breakaway in collar (bridging)
j) Damage to bench / rifling (previous subgrade)
The following are steps which can be taken to minimize air blast
Ensure proper confinement of the explosive charges by:
− The use of an adequate length of collar stemming, preferably of coarse angular material.
− Experience has shown that minimum length of 30-hole diameters is needed to control air blast.
− Not under burdening the front row of holes
− Not overburdening holes, thus preventing blown-out shots
− -Ensuring proper timing to avoid blown-out shots caused by holes firing out of sequence
− Providing 300 mm of sand / soil cover over detonating cord surface lines. Experiments have shown that this
reduces the acoustic energy transmitted to the atmosphere by 26 dB
− The use of pop-holes in place of lay-on charges where secondary blasting is unavoidable
− The elimination of detonating cord in secondary blasting
− Where possible, change to mechanical breaking (drop balls, pneumatic breakers etc.) in lieu of secondary
blasting
− Limit the maximum explosives charge per delay
− Use noiseless trunklines in those situations calling for a non-electric surface delay system
− Where possible, direct the blast away from residential stress. It has shown that a 5 to 10 dB difference in air
blast levels can be expected between the front and the back of the blast
− Avoid blasting when wind is blowing towards a critical area. Strong wind is the most important weather
factor influencing of air blast propagation and can increase the air blast level by over 20 dB
− Avoid blasting in the early morning and late afternoon if a temperature inversion in the atmosphere id
present. Such conditions cause air waves to be refracted back to earth and focusing effects can increase the air
blast level by 10 dB

− Minimize frequency of blasting

− Time the blasting to coincide with periods of high ambient noise
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

30. Blast Clearance and Firing the Shot

1. Blast Clearance

The Blast Supervisor will instruct the shotfirer to conduct a safety sweep or clearance of the Blast Exclusion Zone
once all of the Blast Guards have confirmed that they are in the correct location and access is blocked and secure.
Prior to conducting the sweep of the Blast Exclusion Zone, the Short firers will familiarize themselves with the
operations and work areas currently in use within the designated Blast Exclusion Zone.
During the sweep of the Blast Exclusion Zone the Short firers will verify the position and conformity of the Blast
Guard position during the sweep.
The Short firers must complete a full clearance inspection of the designated Blast Exclusion Zone to ensure the
following: -
a) All personnel have been removed from the designated Blast Exclusion Zone
b) Where possible, all equipment has been removed from the designated Blast Exclusion Zone. If equipment
remains within the Blast Exclusion Zone acceptance of the potential for damage must be noted on the blast
report.
c) As a minimum requirement all equipment that cannot be removed must: -
− Stop operation and shutdown
− Be appropriately isolated
− Be secured against the effects of the blast.
The sweep inspection may be performed using a drone but only if there are no structures and mobile
equipment within the personnel exclusion zone.
During the inspection, the short firers may be required to leave the vehicle to check any areas that are not
accessible by vehicle, to ensure that all persons have been evacuated (e.g.: - crib huts, amenities buildings,
temporary buildings).
In this case the short firer must remain in direct radio contact with the Blast Supervisor by the use of a hand held
2-way radio.
In areas such as crib huts, amenities, temporary buildings, bunded work areas and parked machinery where
personnel may be working remotely or out of radio contact, the short firer may use a device, such as an audible
alarm upon entry to the area, to alert personnel to their presence and await any response.
On completion of the clearance inspection, the short firer must return to the Blast Guard location nominated
during the Blast Guard meeting and report the clearance run has been completed and No Personnel are within
the Blast Exclusion Zone.
When the Blast Supervisor has received confirmation from the Blast Guards and short firer the Blast Exclusion
Zone is clear.
A number of factors associated with on-bench work will, however, require additional consideration when
determining clearance distances, guard locations and shot firing position. These must be communicated to, and
agreed with the Blast Supervisor and include the following:
a) Are there any over-loaded or under-burdened holes that could not be rectified?
b) Were any potential misfire risks identified during charging, that have not been rectified?
c) Does the presence of broken ground increase the risk of fly rock, overpressure or fume, from
otherwise apparently well contained areas?
d) Is the blast in an area with a known history of generating post-blast fume? Has the shot been sleeping longer
than usual? Has slumping of blastholes taken place during loading? This may indicate an increased potential for
NOx generation and subsequent transmission outside the blast danger zone, or blasting site.
e) Is the blast in a hot/reactive area? Can the shot be fired in the necessarily short ‘load and shoot’ time that
may be required?
f) Are there any ground stability issues that will require further assessment after the blast has been fired and
delay re-entry?

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

g) Are multiple shots in the vicinity of each other being fired by one or more shotfirers in the same firing
window? Ensure clearance zones reflect the multiple shots, ensure all blasting devices are secured if re-entry

to a particular shot is required, and consider the impact one shot may have on another with respect to the
initiating systems used, and the sequence in which they will be fired.

Presplit wall

h) Any and all variations to the blast, or measures undertaken to limit risks of potential hazards during blasting,
should be agreed, recorded and signed off by the Blast Supervisor or relevant blasting representative.
2. Firing the Shot
The Blast Supervisor will advise the Shotfirer that the Blast Guards and flag man are in position and the Blast
Exclusion Zone is secure and clear of unauthorized personnel and equipment.
The Shotfirer will raise any concerns regarding the blast guards and/or the clearance procedure before
accepting the control of the blast and designated blast area.
The Shotfirer will confirm the Blast Exclusion Zone is blocked and secure and accepts control of the blast and
designated blast area.
The Shotfirer will call for radio silence at the 2-minute mark from the firing time; silence shall be maintained
unless an emergency situation arises.
By using the agreed radio protocol to confirm the security of the Blast Exclusion Zone and announce the 2-
minute warning, the Shotfirer has accepted control of the blast and the designated Blast Exclusion Zone.
The Shotfirer will call a 2-minute warning prior to firing.
The Shotfirer will broadcast a 15 second warning alarm over the 2-way radio system prior to firing.
The Shotfirer will complete the site firing procedure in accordance with the site accepted practices and fire the
blast.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

31. Fly rock

Fly rock is the most common cause of explosives related injuries. Blast that are properly designed, drilled and
charged should minimize the potential for fly rock however always allow for this possibility when determining
safety distance and location for firing.
Fly rock can occur when blastholes are drilled too close to an open rock face, allowing charges to easily
“breakout” through the small burden.
fly rock can be controlled through considering the following blast parameters
• Stemming length
• Stemming type
• Condition of face
• Delay intervals
• Front row burden
• Blast hole diameter

Special care is required to avoid fly rock when blasting rock that contains cracks, cavity, weak layers or soft
materials such as clay
If the rock contains large cracks or cavities, it can be very easy to overcharge blastholes unless the position of
the top of the charge is continuedly checked.
A blast that has been carefully designed and drilled can be ruined by a single overcharged blasthole that causes
fly rock.
The uncharged collars of blastholes are drilled in the wrong places, at incorrect angles or deviate towards
open rock faces.

Inaccurate drilling can cause fly rock. If blastholes are drilled in the wrong places, at incorrect angle or deviate
towards open rock faces.
fly rock may also cause by insufficient delay time between blastholes or charge that fire out of sequence.

32. Post Blast Inspection and Assessment

Once the blast has been fired, the Shotfirer will lift the radio silence and state: “All Blast Guards are to remain
in their position until the “ALL CLEAR” is given”.
The Blast Supervisor will visually monitor the effects of the blast, before allowing the Shotfirer to return to the
blast site and make an assessment as to the potential risks associated with any post-blast inspection.
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

include (but not limited to) consideration of the following factors:

The recovery and securing of all types of initiating devices from firing lines
− If there is a need for more than one person to return to the shot for the inspection
− Whether fume dispersal has occurred
− Whether dust dispersal/settlement has occurred
− The identification of any apparently unstable ground
− The safety and suitability of access and egress
− Aspects of the blast that may indicate that not all of the charges have been initiated
− In the case of a misfire, or a suspected misfire, whether the minimum waiting time has been observed
− The availability of a competent person to inspect for safety, ground or material that did not move as
intended
Who may enter the exclusion zone prior to conducting the post-blast inspection?
When advised by the Blast Supervisor, the Shotfirer will then inspect the blast and may confirm the “ALL
CLEAR” after giving due consideration to: -
− Identification of any misfire and/or the associated corrective action required to make the area safe
− Procedures to be adopted, if the inspection reveals that the “ALL CLEAR” cannot be given
− Continuous inspection procedures during the approach to the post blast site that might identify unusual or
abnormal results indicating possible hazards
− Whether there is a need to wash down/or scale exposed surfaces
The Shotfirer may then communicate:
− That a misfire or other problem has been identified and the “ALL CLEAR” cannot be given and that further
action is required, or
− That the “ALL CLEAR” has been given and that normal operation may recommence

Where the “ALL CLEAR” has been given by the Shotfirer, the Blast Supervisor will then release the Blast Guards
in numerical order. (Blast Guards must reply to the message).

Blast Guards will acknowledge the “ALL CLEAR” message.

The authorized personnel will generally control the clearance and re-opening in accordance with the communication
from the Shotfirer/Blast Supervisor.
The Blast Guards performing the traffic control operations on any public roadway are to remain in place at the
designated public roadway positions until such time as:
a) The “ALL CLEAR” is given by the Shotfirer; and
b) Before traffic flow resumes, the section of the roadway between the Blast Guard positions must be inspected
for blast debris with the removal of any material that may have landed on the roadway.
c) This inspection is performed by the nominated third person who is in position with the Blast Guard prior and
during the blast.
d) Following the inspection of the public roadway, the Shotfirer may allow the resumption of traffic flow on the
public roadway during the post blast inspection timeframe at their discretion, taking into consideration all due
circumstances, however the Blast Guards will remain in position until the ‘All Clear’ has been given and confirmed
Post-blast risk assessment takes place AFTER the shot has been fired. It is essential in order for safe work to
resume in the vicinity of the blast and elsewhere within the Blast Exclusion Zone.
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

While not strictly within the scope of this Code of Practice, it is not uncommon for a shot crew to return to an
adjacent area after firing, in order to commence work on the next blast. Alternatively, site personnel may return
to an area after firing, in order to commence excavation.

Some considerations prior to commencing work include:

(a) The Shotfirer has confirmed that all explosives have detonated, that no misfires are evident, and that the
shot has fired satisfactorily
(b) Any unsafe wall or crest conditions, or blast damage to the adjacent blast area, has been identified and either
made safe or barricaded to prevent access
(c) Blast performance outcomes (fragmentation, movement, blast damage, environmental impact etc.) have
been reviewed, and confirmation provided that subsequent blast designs remain appropriate. If not, blast packs
may require update with respect to blasthole layout, charging, stemming and tie-up
(d) No site personnel, including the blast crew, can return to an adjacent loading area until all clear has been
given, this will include sufficient time for dust and/or fume dispersal
(e) Access to, and effective demarcation around, the new blast area has been established, with windrows along
new blasted boundaries
(f) Drilling requirements in the join-up area and in any previously drilled areas have been established, before
further charging commences
(g) A documented blast hand-over process is observed, such that any relevant misfires or blast related hazards
are communicated by the Shotfirer to the relevant Supervisor, and effectively communicated / demarcated for
other personnel until rectified
(h) All relevant documentation associated with blasting activities needs to be completed in accordance with site
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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

33. Misfire Management

Type(s) of misfires
1. A misfire occurs when a shot or any part of a shot fails to explode when an attempt is made to fire it. The
major potential causes of misfires are: a faulty detonator; wet explosives; primer in the wrong place; poor quality
shock tube; poorly mixed explosives; faulty exploder; inadequately covered shock tube resulting in a “cut off”
which is caused by shrapnel; failure to check if a hole has been missed out; difficult ground conditions;
incompetent shotfirers

Treatment of misfires
There is inevitably a risk of a premature ignition during the remedial process. To compound the problem, it is
often difficult to be sure that a misfire has occurred and if so, exactly which hole malfunctioned. While the use
of Electronic Delay Detonator is a big step forward, in that their use does allow for misfires to be more easily
detected, misfires will still be problematical.

Inspection of Misfired Holes

• Do not give “All Clear” signal until the misfire is located & re blasted by the blaster.
• The place of misfire bench will be marked by red flag and suitably guarded as assessed by the
Blaster.
• Do not allow the entry of other persons before the area being checked and declared clear in all
respect.
• Clean the stemming portion of the hole with compressed air or water under pressure.
• No iron scrapper will be used in the clearing process.
• After cleaning the stemming material, primer will be inserted to the explosive’s column.
• After re-priming stemming is to be done properly
• Re-priming of hole shall be carried out by or in the presence of blaster
• Before drilling, see that all loose rock is removed from the face.
• Examine the presence of explosives in the socket or misfire hole.
• The relieving hole shall be drilled in the presence of a blaster, preferable the same person who
fired the hole
• The relieving hole shall be drilled in such a direction that at no point shall it be nearer than 200cm
from the misfired hole.
• No dry drilling will be allowed in the process.
• If a misfire hole is not cleared by a relieving shot, then repeat the same procedure until it
is confirmed that the hole is cleared and no existence of explosives are there.
• After re blasting, search carefully for unexploded explosives in the material brought down by the
shot.
• Do not use equipment for searching for detonators and cartridges in the muck pile.
• The recovered explosives will be handled by using hand gloves
• The blaster shall record the followings in a bound paged book kept for the purpose every misfire,
whether suspected, and whether relieved or not relieved. It shall be the responsibility of reliving official
also to sign the report and left on to record in the said book.

Detection of misfires
Measuring performance of the D&B process are done before, during and after a blast event. The quality of and
process control of D&B activities directly relates and influence safety and the outcome(s). Risks and hazards
evolving from blast effects are detrimental to the environment, property, the process, and people, which can be
mitigated by the below mentions measures.

The actual detonation sequence can be compared with the designed sequence. Any charge which misfired
can be detected and the cause can be identified through experimentation or past experience. The
performance of new explosives and accessories can be tested during production blasting.
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• Only shotfirer is allowed to enter the misfire zone.
• The Shotfirer will determine if the misfire can be safely initiated and will determine what
equipment and materials are required to safely complete this process.
• The Shotfirer will prepare the misfire for initiation.
• After successful misfire initiation, Shotfirer will inspect the blast area.
• Completion of blasting operation will be declared by blowing siren.
Of all blast performance issues, safety is paramount, with the focus on misfire prevention, only after this
primary objective, comes treatment should prevention fails. Controls are put in place to secure this
objective which are:
1. Before a blast monitoring - walk the blast, ensure all detonators are correctly connected
Taking it a step further, another option to mitigate misfire risks and the consequences thereof, will be to
implement the use of electronic dots and blasting networks as an initiation system to mitigate failure
modes inherent to pyrotechnical technologies
2. During a blast monitoring - record and analyze the ground vibration trace. With a vibration recording, it can
be determined from the Blast Record if a high frequency peak was present at each planned detonation time
where the offending blast hole could be rapidly identified Vibration monitoring meter will be used to measure
the vibration.

Blast vibration and noise monitoring has been proven to be of use in upgrading blasting practices in both
underground and surface mining. The vibration record contains a range of information used to assess the
performance of a blast. The charges which resulted in the highest vibration levels can be located. These are
likely to be responsible for the greatest amount of breakage and damage. From this, the effects of charge
weight, charge length and explosive strength can be measured.

The actual detonation sequence can be compared with the designed sequence. Any charge which misfired can
be detected and the cause can be identified through experimentation or past experience. The performance of
new explosives and accessories can be tested during production blasting.

Vibration enhancement from successive charges separated by insufficient delays can be detected near the blast
and at the surface at some distance. This potential source of damage and litigation may be
avoided by increasing delays or changing the blast sequence.

Vibration and noise meter will be used in every blast. The measuring device will be placed at the nearest
area of interest (tower, office etc.) and the recording will be reported after every blast.

Dust control is an essential part of excavation works. The type of rock in this area is Granite rock, minimum
amount of dust is expected, however, if needed water supply will be used one day before blasting, and if needed,
rubber mats will be used to protect the spread of dust. Another method complimenting visual inspection of the
blast is the real time capture of the blast event by a drone for surface events, and video camera for underground
blast events, with the latter that will require more setup. The recorded video of surface blast(s) will be replayed
on the spot to confirm a cut off or misfired location(s) in real time during a suspicious blast event(s).

Drone license applications for approval to record Aramco surface blasting activities, also including site
clearance and or nearby interface with adjacent contractors during blasting activities will be coordinated
with the Aramco Digital department.

3. After a blast monitoring - during the visual inspection by the shotfirer of the rock pile or blast face, a “cut off”
or misfired location is normally noticeable. A cutoff is caused by shrapnel i.e. the firing of a surface connector
breaks the shock tube before the next hole can fire. The latter is probably the commonest cause of misfires.

Prevention of misfires
In the event of a misfire being declared by the Shotfirer or authority in charge, all Blast Guards are to
remain in position and ensure the Blast Exclusion Zone is maintained.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

A misfire may include: -

a) The total failure of the blast to initiate as designed
b) The failure of a section of the blast to initiate as designed or
c) The failure of whole or partial individual blast holes to initiate as designed.
Misfires may be identified during: -
a) The firing procedure
b) The post firing inspection or
c) The blasting excavation process.
When a misfire has been identified during the post blast inspection, the Blast Supervisor will regain control of
the Blast Exclusion Zone perimeter and all communications.

The Shotfirer will control the mechanics of the misfire and keep the Blast Supervisor informed in regard to
action that result from the misfire.

If a misfire which has been identified during the initial firing sequence, or during the post blast inspection, can
be safely re-fired while the Blast Guards are in position, the suitable notifications and preparations
are to be implemented and re-firing conducted as soon as possible. However, the Blast Exclusion Zone
parameters may have to be extended to a greater distance at the discretion of the Shotfirer.

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Drilling & Blasting Method Statement

All instructions issued by the Shotfirer during the re-firing of a misfire, must be complied with and confirmed by
each Blast Guard. This may include a second safety sweep (clearance) of the Blast Exclusion Zone by the Sweepers
if it is deemed required prior to the re-firing of the misfire.
Once the misfire is ready to be re-fired, the normal firing sequence will commence from the 2-minute warning
and Blast Guard checks.
Misfires scheduled to be fired after the initial firing schedule, must follow the firing process as per any normal
blasting activity, and include a risk assessment which would include the number and placement of suitable Blast
Guards required for the blast.

Handling Misfire
Misfire may be handled as a following step.
− Secure the misfire area
− Determine the extent and type od the misfire
− Communicate the incident
− Full investigation to determine actual situation
− Develop recovery plan
− Recovery plan risk assessment
− Execute the recovery plan
− Analyses the evidence to determine the root cause
− Document the incident

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− Develop and implement corrective action as appropriate to prevent recurrence

34. Misfire reduction

The most effective way to manage misfires is prevention. Whilst misfires cannot be completely eliminated
significant improvements in safety and productivity can be obtained by reducing misfire frequency. The main
way to achieve this is to have robust procedures and processes in place to ensure blasts are designed, loaded
and fired to a high standard.
In surface development blasting, misfires are caused by poor handling and application of explosives and initiation
systems during storage, transport, priming, charging and firing of development faces.

Misfire management
The procedure for dealing with misfires will vary for different situations and products.
In the event of a suspected misfire when firing a blast, you must not attempt to approach or allow anyone else
to approach the blast area until the following times have elapsed
a. Electric, Non-Electric and Electronic Firing: 5 minutes after attempting to fire the blast.
Regardless of type or scale the process for dealing with misfires should follow the ten (10) step process
detailed in the next section.
1. Misfire Identification 6. Risk assesses recovery plan
2. Isolation 7. Recover misfire
3. Communication 8. Handover to production
4. Investigation 9. Analyze for root cause
5. Plan for recovery 10. Report

Misfire identification
All blasts should be inspected by a competent person (shotfirer) before bogging however this will not confirm
that there are no misfires. Most underground misfires are identified by production personnel as the heading or
stope is bogged. This means that production personnel need to be trained in misfire identification.
Misfire awareness of all personnel leads to early identification. This prevents downstream exposures and reduces
risk of incident escalation. Personnel should be vigilant when performing their duties as undetected misfires can
be located in all underground areas where blasting has previously taken place.
Production and Jumbo Drillers must look for any sign of misfires prior to the commencement of drilling and
monitor the returns and fines particularly while collaring.

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Causes of Misfire
− Non-continuous firing line. Breaks in electrical firing lines as well as exposed connections can cause current
leakage leading to misfires. Note that earth leakage faults may not be picked up by resistance testing as the
leakage may only occur at high (firing) voltages.
− Deteriorated explosives. Packaged explosives will progressively become
− less sensitive with age. This process will eventually lead to misfires. Magazine management must ensure all
explosives are within the recommended use-by date.

− Product Failure. Most products have a very high reliability when sourced from a good quality supplier and
properly stored. For example the current detonator failure rate is less than 1 in 100,000 units. Detonating cord
reliability is ensured by using ‘two path’ hook-ups.
− Shrapnel cutoffs of detonating cord or shock tube may occur when connections are not made carefully and
at right angles

− Desensitized explosives / dead pressing. Where explosives are subject to high levels of shock and pressure the
density, and critical diameter, may increase and cause failure. Dead pressed holes may appear largely intact.
Where ANFO is used the explosives may have been pressed into a solid mass and be difficult to remove. Whilst
it is likely the primer has functioned this cannot be confirmed until the hole has been washed out

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− Detonators are also susceptible to dead pressing. Electronic detonators may fail through a process known as
‘shrink wrapping’ where dynamic pressure collapses the tube and causes the electronics to fail. Note that this is
not identified in any pre-blast testing

− Dislocated and cut off blast hole. Ground movement during the blast may dislocate the column of explosives
leading to misfires. Column dislocation may be reduced by modifications to blast design to increase relieve and
my multiple priming
Discontinuous explosives column (Air decked holes). Where up-holes are loaded it
may be possible to get an airgap in the column. Where this gap is more than a few
hole diameters this will cause failure due to dead pressing. Where multiple primers
are used to address this, they must fire at the same instant which means electronic
initiation.

Area Inspection
− Shift Supervisors are to inspect all blasts on the working shift to identify possible
misfires as soon as possible after re-entry is complete.
− On identification of a misfire the affected area should be thoroughly inspected to
deter- mine the extent / number of holes and the type of misfire.
− Bogger Operators must be vigilant of any potential misfires as the fired material
(broken rock) is being removed in both development and production areas.
− Any large toe, bump or lump in the wall back or floor of a development heading
must be identified and inspected to determine if explosives are present.
− All drill hole remnants in a development heading must be inspected prior to drilling
or mechanical scaling. If the toe of a hole is not visible then a misfire is to be assumed.
− Oversize rock must be closely inspected for any sign of production drill holes & explosives. The Drill rig
Operator, Rock Breaker Operator or Bogger Operator must look for any sign of misfires in oversize rock material
before commencing secondary breakage activities.
− Oversize rock can be rolled over to check for misfires wherever possible
Isolation
− Misfires should be treated as charged faces and isolated from other activities. This isolation should remain in
place until the misfire is cleared.
− When a misfire has been identified CHARGED FACE signs or DANGER tape is to be used to barricade all access
points to the affected area.
− If any leg wired from electric or electronic detonators are protruding these shall be short circuited. Shock
tubes shall be taped to prevent moisture ingress.
− All detonating cord remnants must be assumed to be live.
− Where misfires are identified drillers and bogger operators should halt work until the area has been
inspected by a competent person.
− All misfires are to be barricaded at all times unless under during recovery under the direct supervision of an
Authorized Person

Communication
− The presence of a misfire must be communicated to supervisors and to all persons who may work in the area
of the misfire.

− Report the misfire to the Shift Supervisor and Blast Control for recording in the Misfire Record Book or file
(even if the misfire has been treated and made safe).
− Identified Misfires are to be added to the record of charged faces.
− Identified misfires are to be communicated to operators in the same manner as sleeping charged blasts are
communicated

Investigation
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Misfire investigation determines the extent of the misfire (how many holes) and the type of the misfire (impact
sensitive, probably not impact sensitive) in order to guide the recovery plan.
The site shall be thoroughly examined to determine the extent of the misfire. To assist in an investigation,
notes should be taken as to the location and status of any misfired explosives.
Without disturbing any of the evidence, make a thorough examination of the misfire and surrounding areas in
order to fully define the misfired area and document the extent.
Misfires are categorized based on the potential for accidental initiation of the misfired explosives as follows:
1. Category A
− where “impact sensitive” explosives are confirmed. Typically, where initiation systems, detonating cord,
detonators or boosters, are involved. These products contain impact sensitive explosives which are susceptible
to accidental initiation by the application of sufficient impact/friction energy, typically during excavation.

− Any unfired downline confirms a Category A Misfire

2. Category B
– where “impact sensitive” explosives are not indicated. Typically, where bulk, packaged or ANFO based
explosives, are implicated.
– The level of investigation and the recovery strategy of misfires is directly related to the determined Category.
It is the responsibility of the shotfirer to determine with certainty the presence/absence of impact sensitive
explosives in any misfire.

Recovery Plan
The recovery of any misfire is potentially hazardous and recovery strategy must be under the direct supervision
of the appointed shotfirer. The recovery of simple, single hole misfires in surface blasting and shafts inking is
relatively straight forward, however were
multiple misfires have occurred, particularly where unfired detonating cord is present, the recovery process is
complex and should be based on a thorough investigation and a risk assessment of the proposed recovery plan.
The recovery plan is a step-by-step description of how to move from the current situation to a state where the
misfire is rendered safe and the site handed back to production for normal excavation. The plan should be
documented for significant misfires as this will provide the basis for an effective risk assessment.
Recovery of misfires may involve:
– Removal of product
– Refiring
– Firing a relieving hole
– Excavation
Each of these techniques involves some risk.

1. Removal of Product
Removal of misfired product offers the opportunity to examine the misfire to determine if product failure,
particularly initiation failure, is a contributing factor.
– Wash the drill hole out with water using a 32 mm poly hose.
– A combination of water and compressed air can also be used
– Alternatively, or use a non-ferrous scraper (brass or stainless steel) to remove explosives
– Packaged explosives can be removed using a brass pigtail on a length of poly pipe
– Care must be taken to avoid impact on the detonator
– The objective is to remove the primer at the toe of the hole

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2. Markup
If the drill hole cannot be cleared of explosives, it is to be marked up with a circle with a 0.5 m radius with ‘MF’
painted on its side and re-fired at the end of the shift (where practical).

3. Repriming / Refiring
Misfires that appear to contain live explosives may be refired. Where live downlines are identified attempts may
be made to refire these by taping to detonating cord, however moisture ingress may prevent the tube from
firing. It is more reliable to remove explosives to enable a new primer to be placed against the remnant
explosives.

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4. Development
If a misfire affects the profile of a development bench, then it is to be fired off.
Blow out or remove sufficient explosives to enable a collar primer to be secured against the remaining
product.
Where minimal uncharged collar is available load and tamp the priming cartridge first then insert the
detonator.
Water should not be used as it will desensitize the explosives column.

5. Removal of Stemming
Stemming may be removed by air and or water. Note that when ANFO is the main charge removing the
stemming with water will desensitize it making it problematic to refire.
In this case air only should be used however additional precautions should be taken to minimize the hazards
from static and impact. I.e., use minimum pressure.

6. Removal of Primers
If the explosives column can be removed attempts should be made to recover the misfired primers. Gentle
pressure on the downlines should remove the primers. If the primers get stuck in any way they are to be left and
reprimed and refired.

7. Mechanical Excavation
The main risk with mechanical excavation is unplanned detonation due to impact. Products that are impact
sensitive include detonators, detonating cord, packaged explosives traced with detonating cord and cast
pentolite boosters. All of these will readily initiation under moderate levels of impact from bogger buckets.
Mechanical excavation of an identified misfire shall take place under the direct control of an Authorized Person.
Where impact sensitive product is identified a risk assessment should be conducted to control the excavation
process.
No person, apart from the machine operator, shall remain in the vicinity of a misfire whilst excavation is being
undertaken.
Any excavated material containing suspected misfires should be placed in a safe location, such as a stockpile,
and inspected by a competent person before being added to the run of mine production.

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8. Recovery
Recovery of misfires must be done under the direct control of an authorized person. All persons involved must
be aware of the plan for recovery and the risks involved.
To manage risk the recovery of the misfire must be in accordance with the recovery plan.
Where additional information becomes available during the recovery it is likely that the plan will change.
Where the change has the potential to increase risk the recovery plan and risk assessment must be reviewed.
All product recovered from a misfire is to be treated as waste explosives and deal with ac- cording to the site
procedure. Where recovered product is stored in the magazine it must be properly labelled and added to the
stock records.

9. Misfire Analysis
The objective of analysis is to understand why the misfire occurred and what changes need to be implemented
to prevent it happening again.
A focus on root cause is required. For example, if a hole was not hooked up the root cause is not ‘failed to hook

The likely root cause of the misfire is to be recorded in the misfire book. The shotfirer and shift supervisor are
to sign off on the root cause.
Appropriate corrective actions are to be identified and documented, generally by the drill and blast engineer,
in the misfire book. Corrective actions should also be entered into the site incident management system.

10. Report
A report of all misfires is required to be made and kept including details of the following:
– Blast location
– Source Blast
– Date fired
– Date misfire identified
– Date misfire closeout / handover to operations
– Appearance of misfire / investigation details / holes misfired / location
– Products involved / recovered
– Probable Cause of misfire
– Misfire recovery technique including any associated risk assessments
– Recommended corrective actions

35. Secondary Breakage procedure

Secondary breakage has the same risks as firing a primary production blast and must be treated as such.
The main difference is that the shotfirer is responsible for the blast design where in a production blast it is the
drill and blast engineer.
The required procedure for secondary break is
− Assess material to be broken
− Design secondary blast
− Assess blast design for risk
− Blast
− Check and handover
Shotfirer must consider each of these steps for secondary breakage:

1. Assess material
i. Size of material
ii. Material type
iii. Blast outcomes
iv. Potential for drilling
v. Available explosives
2. Design secondary blast
i. Powder factor and charge mass
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ii. Drilling design: Number of holes, hole diameter, charge placement

3. Charge Design
i. Charging length and stemming length
ii. Single hole or multi hole
iii. Primer / PE
iv. Tamping & Initiation

Secondary break blasts need to be assessed for risk before loading and firing.

36. Typical Blast Design

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36.1 Firing Pattern

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36.2 Drill Plan

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36.3 Charging Pattern

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37. Drill log / Rig log

Insert drill log / Rig log format here for drilling and charging of drill holes

S. N Station/Chainage Hole Depth(m) Number of LMs Width (m)

Holes

Drilling Spacing x Burden = 2.8m x 2.8m, Dia= 76 mm

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38. Machinery & Equipment list

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39. Organization Chart

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40. Technical Data Sheet

Explosives

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Data Sheet for Sanels

SANEL is a most versatile non-electric shock tube initiation system based on a slender, but strong,
plastic tube coated on the inside with a thin layer of reactive material, that when initiated maintains
the propagation of a shock wave at a velocity of about 2,000 m/sec. When the shock wave reaches the
delay element of the attached detonator, it is sufficiently strong to activate it and ultimately initiate
the explosive after a predetermined time.
The shock wave is contained within the tube and has no initiating affect on any explosives column as
it goes through.
The SANEL shock tube is immune to electric hazards as static and stray electricity, radio frequency,
induction from high voltage power lines, electric storms etc. making it possible to use where electric
initiation normally is not permitted.

Application
- General purpose blasting.
- Surface blasting.
- Tunneling and Underground blasting (SANEL LP series).
- Initiation with delayed pattern.

Advantages
- Wide range of delay time variability reduce blasting vibration, improves fragmentation, and reduce
cost of blasting.
- Wide variety of lengths.
- Excellent water resistance.
- Fast and simple connection.
- Higher variability of timing patterns.
- No limitation on blast round size.
- Can be initiated by electric, non-electric detonators and detonating cord.
- Easy color coding.

Saudi Chemical Company produces six types of SANEL detonators;

1. SANEL UNIDET
2. SANEL QR
3. SANEL CR
4. SANEL QUICKDET
5. SANEL MS
6. SANEL LP

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1. SANEL UNIDET
SANEL UNIDET is a system with the same relatively long delay time in all in-hole detonators (475 &
500ms).
The firing sequence is built up on the surface with connectors with different delay times.
SANEL UNIDET is designed for bench and trench blasting. An infinite number of holes can be connected in
one round.
In a normal bench blast, each hole is primed with a primer cartridge with a SANEL UNIDET detonator, which
in the case of U500 gives each hole a basic delay of 500 ms.
SANEL UNIDET can be initiated with surface connectors (SANEL QR) or with 5g/m detonating cord.

2. SANEL QR
SANEL QR specially designed to provide surface connection initiation network and transmission of
initiating signal to the next shock tube.
SANEL QR 0, QR17, QR25, QR42 and QR67 relay the initiation signal to the next shock tube with 0, 17, 25,
42, and 67 ms delay respectively.
Available for special request SANEL QR109, and QR176.
Advantages of using SANEL QR series Connector Blocks color coding indicates delay time.

- Enables all in-hole detonators to be initiated on the surface before any rock displacement
begins.
- Easy connecting blocks color coding.
- SANEL QR blocks can hold up to 8 shock tubes each.
The new design of the connector blocks is such that up to 8 SANEL tubes are in intimate contact with the
detonators thus ensuring initiation of the shock tubes.
Principles of Initiation of SANEL UNIDET and SANEL QR

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The basic principle of initiation is transferring initiation from a surface connector (SANEL QR) to a
detonator in a hole (e.g. SANEL U500) and to another surface connector. The figure on the right shows
properly timed blasting pattern. The holes are initiated well before the rock starts moving.
Example of Ideal Firing Pattern using SANEL U500 and Surface Connectors QR 25

NOTICE
For a successful blast, it is necessary that a hole is initiated well before the initiation network is
destroyed by a blast itself. This is ensured by suitably designed blast pattern.

3. SANEL CR
SANEL CR is a cord relay unit for blasts with detonating cord in both ends. SANEL CR relays the
detonation with 25 MS when connected between rows/holes. SANEL CR can be used with 5 and 12
g/m detonating cord.
SANEL CR units may be ordered with tube lengths from 1.2 m and upwards in intervals of 0.6 m.

4. SANEL QUICKDET
SANEL is a combination of SANEL UNIDET in-hole detonator and QR connector [Link] QR unit
has been fitted to the in-hole detonator tube creating a practical and easy to useinitiation
device.
As of SANEL QR, SANEL comes with 0,17,25,42, and 67 ms delay connectors.
SANEL units may be ordered with tube lengths from 1.2 m and upwards in intervals of 0.6 m.

Note: SANEL Quick Det series come in red shock tube

5. SANEL MS
SANEL MS is a short delay detonator system of 25 MS increments from period No. 3 (75 ms) to period
No. 20 (500 MS).
SANEL MS is mainly used in small bench blasting operations on surface and underground, as

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well as in underwater blasting and sub-level caving. SANEL MS units may be ordered with tube
lengths from 1.2 m and upwards in intervals of 0.6 m.

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41. Environment Section

Project Details: WO-007 (CH 75+000 to CH 81+840) Framework Agreement for Site Preparation
Contract No. 4200000029
Contract Name. The connector Rail corridor early works
Name of the Project: WO-007 (CH 75+000 to CH 81+840) Framework Agreement for
Site Preparation

Environment Accord no 2022/111 Blasting Location: Attached in Map

Sensitive receptor identification: Attached in Map

Procedures to follow-up to fulfil the requirements ESIA

• Pre-mobilization ecology and archeology surveys
Pre-mobilization ecology and archeology surveys have been conducted at the full extent
of the Lot 9 LUP including all proposed blasting sites prior to commencing activities to
identify potentially sensitive ecological and archeological receptors.
• Fauna including Spiny tailed lizard not found during the visit.
• Flora including trees for translocation has awaiting translocation

• Sensitive Receptors Mapping

Sensitive receptors have been identified and map attached
[Link] included following items with in the 2km radius:
• Fauna dens, burrows with focus on STLs- Not evident during the visit
• Avifauna nests, roosting sites- Not evident during the visit
• Sensitive flora- Not evident during the visit
• Archeological sites and heritage sites- Not evident during the visit
• Utilities/ Interferences e.g. roads, dam, pipelines, water wells,
electricity pylons, telecom- Updated
• Human receptors e.g. camps, offices, Bedouin settlements.
Updated in map will be submitted through ITP

• Approach for every blast:

 A pre-blast survey will be conducted around the blasting site prior to
commencement of blasting (at least 1-2 days in advance) to confirm the

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absence/status of potentially sensitive ecological and archeological receptors

(within exclusion zones).
 Confirm the absence of any human receptors e.g., camps, offices,
Bedouinsettlements, police/governmental checkpoints, …etc. especially
when exclusion zone crosses outside the borders of the LUP.
 An updated Receptor Map will be generated taking into account the blast
location and confirming receptors’ locations and conditions around/in blast
exclusion zone.
 The Environmental Checklist will be completed – pre blast section

• During Blasting
 During blasting, monitoring for any flying birds, fauna movement will be
undertaken. As appropriate, fauna & avifauna, if observed during blasting,
should be scared off site.
 Monitoring of environmental parameters as per Section requirements
attached below.

• Post -blast
 Post-blast monitoring surveys (targeted to earlier identified archeology/
ecology receptors) will be undertaken to check and document any damages
or observations.
 The environmental checklist will be completed attached below– after blast
section, Review of measured parameters e.g., noise levels and AOP and
compare with target thresholds and report any exceedances.
Blasting Environmental Checklist (to be completed for every blast)

Blast Reference
Location s
Area
Coordinates
Blast Date
Blast
Number
PIC
CEM

[Link] Checklist Yes No N/A Comment

(if needed)
Before each Blast
1 Is Person in Charge (PIC) appointed,
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approved and in place?

2 Is PIC familiar with Accord/ ESIA/ permit
conditions for blasting works?
3 Is PIC aware of all requirements and
obligations stipulated in the Method of
Statement?
4 Is PIC familiar with mapping of
receptors?
5 Is Construction Environment Manager
(CEM) in place?
6 Is CEM familiar with mapping of
receptors?

7 Has pre-job walkover conducted before

blast?
8 Has TBT (Toolbox talk) conducted to all
personnel involve in blasting activities?

9 Are all access to blast areas identified

and secured?
10 Have all Contractors working in the
vicinity of the blasting site been notified
prior to the commencement of
blasting?
11 Have a visual check for any Bedouins in
the vicinity of the blast area undertaken
(esp. if exclusion zone extends outside
LUP) - clearance and secure access to
exclusion zone is secure and
restricted?

12 Any visual presence of avifauna/ fauna

near/ within exclusion zone during pre-
blast survey?
if yes, were they scared off - guided out
of area to safe zone?
13 Any bird nests detected near within
exclusion zone? (If yes, inform EPM and
postpone blasting activities)
14 Any presence of Spiny Tail Lizards or
burrows visually identified near or
within exclusion zone before pre blast
survey? (If yes, inform EPM and
postpone blasting activities)
15 Any presence of roosting bats visually
identified during pre-blast survey? (if
yes, inform EPM and postpone blasting
activities)
16 Are identified heritage sites inspected
before blasting and status documented
for a pre-post blast assessment?

17 Is water used during blasting? Damp

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Suppression?
Are dump suppression water tanker
separately dedicated and available
during the time of blasting?
if water is used, is water treatment
according to permit conditions?
18 Groundwater monitoring in place?

19 All arrangements to manage waste per

project requirements in place?
20 Hazardous materials and waste are
stored per permit requirements?

21 Ventilation system working?

22 Air quality monitoring in place?
23 Noxious gas monitoring in place?
24 Blast vibration monitoring in place?
25 AOP monitoring in place?
26 Fly rock controls in place?
27 Blast fumes controls in place?

28 Is a grievance mechanism to receive

complaints in place
29 Is an emergency plan available, tested
and effective?

30 Is map of receptors up-to-date for this

blast

After each Blast

31 Any grievance received
32 Heritage sites inspected after blasting?
33 Any damage observed to heritage sites?
34 Any observation of fauna during
blasting?

35 Were vibration limits exceeded?

36 Was AOP limits exceeded?

37 Was emergency plan activated?

Signatures Pre-blast check Post-blast check

Name Signature Time Time
Signature

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A. Blast Management

I. Blast Fumes – The blasting process generates blast fumes, AYC will be adhere
following techniques to mitigate the Blast fumes:
a. The purpose of blast is to remove the jebel as a part of work scope
b. Blasting process to remove the hard rock, which is present in jebel.
c. Blast fumes will be mainly managed through the blasting approach
d. In confined spaces, AYC ensure effective ventilation as a key safety
requirement

e. AYC ensure Water sprays, when applicable, will be used to aid in reduction of
blast fume
f. During surface blasting, AYC CEM will measure wind direction to ensure blast
fume will not affect sensitive receptors.
g. Windsocks will be installed at blasting location

II. Blast induced vibrations – all blasting induces vibration (calculated in Peak Particle
Velocity (PPV)
a. AYC will carry out PPV, and to ensure to calculated PPV kept below the
limitset,
b. AYC will use Vibrographs to use monitor vibration levels.
c. After the initial trail blast, charge weights or blast patterns will be modified as
required to ensure no adverse effects

III. Air Over Pressure – The initiation of explosives creates a high volume of gas which
causes displacement of the air crating a pressure wave. This can cause damage and
loss.
a. AYC will calculate AOP to design mitigation pressure. AYC will ensure no
Blasting will be carried out, if AOP exceeds more than limits.
b. Industry standard seismographs, namely digital seismographs that deliver full
waveform capture, plus microphone suitable for air overpressure
measurements will be used for monitoring during blasting (capable of
simultaneous recording Longitudinal, Vertical, and Transverse Peak Particle
Velocity (PPV) in mms-1; Resultant Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) in mms 1; and
Air Overpressure in dB)
c. AYC will ensure mitigations for air overpressure such as blast design, ballast,
mats, blast doors to be discussed as required from the risk assessment and
sensitive receiver review.

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IV. Fly Rock – debris and flying particles expected during blasting
a. AYC ensure, fly rock generation will be limited by the charge/blast design to
avoid direct exposure to adjacent receptors.
b. In the situation where fly rock may arise, control measures and definition of
unsafe zones, NO GO zones will be identified and cardon with efficient
security measures.
c. AYC ensures that any blast close to the exclusion zone, mitigation measures
to control fly rock will be used e.g. use of blast mats, tunnel blast doors, etc.

B. Timing
a. Blasting will be restricted to favorable weather conditions avoiding electrical
storms, temperature inversions, heavy low cloud or where sensitive
receptors are downwind under windy condition
b. Blasting will take into account the working hours of any potential sensitive
receptors e.g. camps, offices … etch
C. Security
a. AYC will fence off all LUP boundaries to avoid, and restrict un authorized
entries, Animal protection.
b. The LUP boundary will be fenced with hard barricading, only single-entry
exitwill be operated. Patrol vehicle will be drive-off for 24hrs security
c. All blasting activities shall be compliant with KSA HR Decree #38 legal
obligations. The use of explosives is strictly managed in KSA via HR Decree
38 which is overseen by the Ministry of the Interior

Blasting Checklist
For every blast, the Environment checklist mentioned above will be completed and signed
by the PIC and CEM for before and after blast checks.

I. Record Keeping – Nesma ensure to keep records for all blast will be documented
andarchived for future audits:
a. Data regarding the blast itself including blast number, location of blast, no.
of holes, diameter of holes, burden and spacings, explosive type(s),
detonation method, stemming, and maximum instantaneous charge weight
(MIC).
b. Receptors Mapping (summary table and map)
c. Pre-blast surveys
d. Blast Checklist
e. Monitoring results (noise, AOP, vibration)
f. Videos of blast
II. Monitoring
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Parameter Instrument Location/coordinates frequency responsible

Noise Noise meter X: Continuous CEM
dBA (class 1) Y: during
blasting
PM-2.5 Multi X: Continuous CEM
PM-2.5 Gas/Dust Y: during
Monitor blasting
Vibration Vibrometer X: Continuous SM
Y: during
blasting
AOP Baro Meter X: During SM
Y: Blasting

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42. Documents & Attachments

BLASTING REPORT

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BLASTING PLAN

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RA # RA- TCEW-09 PROJECT THE CONNECTOR EARLY WORKS

TASK Surface Blasting Work
DATE 10 March 2023 ☐ New ☒ Revised Revision Date

☐ Cold Work ☒ Hot Work ☐ Excavation ☐ Confined Space ☐ Work at Height

1.0 Permit(s) Required:
☐ LOTO Permit ☒ Night Work ☐ Radiography ☐ Lifting Permit ☐ Road Closure Permit
☒ Hard Hat ☒ Fluorescent Reflective Vest ☐ Rain Suit ☐ Cut resistant gloves
☒ Clear Safety Glasses ☒ Dust Mask ☐ Disposable Coverall ☐ Leather Gloves
☒ Dark Safety Glasses ☒ Cartridge Respirator Mask ☐ Fire resistant coverall ☐ Rubber Gloves
2.0 PPE Required: ☒ Coverall ☐ Air supplied respirator ☐ Chemical Goggles ☐ Nitrile gloves
☒ Cotton Gloves ☒ SCBA ☐ Cutting Goggles ☐ Elect Insulated gloves
☒ Safety Shoes ☒ Ear Plugs ☐ Face Shield ☐ Welding Aprons
☐ Dielectric footwear ☒ Earmuffs ☐ Welding Hood ☐ Welding Leggings
Special Tools and ☐ Gas Badge ☒ Anemometer ☐ Lifeline ☒ Fire Extinguisher
3.0 Equipment ☐ Dosimeter ☒ Lux Meter ☐ Retrieval Line ☐ Ventilation Fans
Required: ☐ Multi-Gas Monitor ☐ Full body Harness
☒ Noise Meter ☒ Lighting
Foreman / Supervisors to secure work permit before commencing activity and conduct brief safety talk
(E.g. toolbox meeting, topics shall include heat stress awareness).
Additional Wear mandatory PPE’s (hard hats, safety glass, coverall, safety shoes, visibility vest)
4.0
Instructions Ensure availability of sufficient hydration and rest shade area.
Maintain adequate supervision.
Dangerous occurrence, near miss and other’s related incident shall be reported accordingly.

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RISK ASSESSMENT MATRIX

PROBABILITY FOR
SEVERITY CRITERIA
POTENTIAL INCIDENT SEVERITY
(3)
Operations Possible (4) Likely (5) Very
Personnel  Asset damage Environmental Reputation (1) Very (2) Likely
but unusual not surprising
 Downtime Unlikely Unlikely no doubt
(1) First Aid (1) Slight (<$1,000) (1) Slight (1) Local 1 2 3 4 5
(1) 8 hours (< 1 Gallon) exposure

(2) Medical (2) Minor (<$10,000) (2) Minor (2) State 2 4 6 8 10

Treatment (2)< = 1 day (< 42 Gallons) exposure
(3) Lost Time/ (3) Medium (<$100,000) (3) Medium (3) National 3 6 9 12 15
Rest. injury (3)> 1 day (<420 Gallons) exposure
(4) Single (4) Major (<$1,000,000) (4) Major (<4,200 (4) Regional 4 8 12 16 20
Fatality (4)> 1 week Gallons) exposure
(5) Multiple (5) Extensive (5) Massive (5) International 5 10 15 20 25
Fatality (>$1,000,000) (>4,200 Gallons) exposure
(5)> 1 month
Personnel with competency and skills to perform the job have the authority to proceed after verbally discussing the
1–6 Low Risk
job requirements with anyone performing the work with them.
May be acceptable; however, review task to see if risk can be reduced further.
Job shall only proceed with appropriate authorization after consultation with HS&E personnel and assessment
7 – 15 Medium Risk
team. Where possible, the job shall be redefined to take account of the hazards involved or the risk shall be
reduced further prior starting the job. If applicable, a Permit-to-Work shall be obtained.
The job must not proceed until it has been redefined or further control measures put in place to reduce risk. The
16 – 25 High Risk
controls shall be re-assessed for adequacy prior to starting the job.

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Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
1 Pre-task meeting, Confusion Personal 2 2 4  Pre-job task to be conducted with working 2 1 2
planning and Untrained Operators & Injury crew prior to start activities on site.
preparation. workers  Work permit shall be provided prior the
Property
activities. Site
damage
 Certified and experienced operators engineer/Super
are authorized to operate the visor/ Foreman
equipment and machinery.
 Safety induction training to be
conducted for newly inducted
employees
2 Blasting Permit Unauthorized work 4 2 8  Blasting permit shall be obtained as 4 1 4
performed within a a pre-requisite to perform work.
defined location and  Permit Receiver and Permit Issuer shall
boundary visit together at the site to ensure that Construction
Unidentified hazards with workplace hazards are adequately Manager/Super
unplanned safety mitigating identified and mitigating measure shall be visor/
measures established Foreman/Safet
 Blasting Permit shall be displayed near work y
location.
 A safe work practice shall be implemented to
reduce the possibilities of accident / incident.
3 Survey & Slip, trip & fall 2 2 4  While lifting/shifting survey machine
Marking Hit by proper body posture to be maintained.
 Survey machine will be fixed on stable Surveyor/Super
ground. visor/
 Proper access and egress to be provided. Foreman/Safet
 Pay attention while walking/moving on y
ground.
 Barricade the survey post area and men at
work signage to be displayed.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
4 Mobilizing Poor equipment maintenance Personal 4 2 8  Ensure all tools being used are
equipment (drill and condition Injury/Proper inspected and color coded prior to
machine 7 other Damaged equipment parts ty damage usage.
machine) and  Use correct tools for the assigned
hand tools job.
 Ensure that equipment operator Construction
conducted daily inspection prior to Manager/Site
operate and maintain checklist. engineer/Super
 Equipment regular maintenance visor
must be done as schedule.
 Equipment shall be thoroughly
inspected. Crack and damaged
parts to be replaced and
discard/Remove from the site.
5 Placement of drill  Failure of machine Personal 4 2 8  Third party inspection of machine 4 1 4
machine and  Unauthorized Operator Injury/Proper shall be done and inspection tag to
manlift at site  Uncompact ground ty damage be displayed.
 Toppling of Machine  Certified operators and approve 3rd
 Struck by swing radius party certificate and competency
 Electrocution card.
 Poor cable management  Man, basket SWL (safe working load to be
 Fall from height displayed).
Site Blasting
 Provide hard barricade around the swing
engineer/Super
radius of machine. visor/Foreman/
 Working area must be well compacted Safety
 Ensure machine will be placed on firm
and levelled ground area.
 Ensure machine stands on outrigger
jacks. Pad shall be provided under
the outrigger legs.
 Machine operation area shall be
identified as RED Zone,
barricaded/isolated and sign posted to
prevent other people from entry.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
 Electrical connections shall be done as per
specification and it must be done by
certified electrician only.
 Provide cable hangers to hang the cable
and ensure proper cable management
inside tunnel.
 Alone worker is not allowed to work from
aerial platform, operator must be
available
inside the platform.
6 Drilling by drill  Fall of rock Personal 4 2 8  Machine operation area shall be 4 1 4
 Flying particles Injury/Proper identified as RED Zone,
Machine and air  Noise barricaded/isolated and sign posted to
cleaning by ty and
 Dust Environment prevent other people from entry.
compressor  No one is allowed to stand under the
 Vibration al damage
 Pressurized hose drilling zone. Falling rocks signage to be
connections displayed.
 Swinging of compressed  Working crew must wear eye protection
hose and ear protection (ear muffs) and dust
Site Blasting
mask while drilling.
engineer/Supe
 Monitor noise level and provide ear muffs
revisor/
to crew working adjacent to the jumbo
Foreman/Safe
drill.
ty
 Crew to be rotated to minimize the vibration
exposure.
 Ensure hose connections must be
tightened and connected with whip
latch arrestor.
 Provide eye wash station near work location.
 Pay attention while handling pressurized
compressor hose and nobody will stand
in hose pathway.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
7 Working at  Person falling from height Personal 4 2 8  All persons who will work at height will 4 1 4
height  objects falling from injury/proper have completed working at height
heights ty damage training.
 Ladders shall not be used as platform.
 Fall protection device full body harness
shall be used & it should be 100% tie
off.
 Use only man lift machine or jumbo drill
basket for work at height.
 Operators and working crew should
maintain a firm footing on the platform Site Blasting
floor at all times. No one will be allowed to engineer/Super
sit or climb on midtrial or handrail for any visor/
work. Foreman/Safet
 Operator and operatives are not y
allowed to come out of basket
while performing work at
height.
 While operating an aerial work platform,
the operator shall not use any hand-held
device(s) while the equipment is being
operated.
 Operator and working crew will get on and
off the platform when it is in the fully
lowered position.
 Loose material to be kept in material bag.
 Crew must use wrist tool lanyard to secure
the hand tools from falling.
8 Transportation of  Explosion due Personal 5 2 10  Explosives shall be transported in approved 5 1 5 Site Blasting
explosive at site to careless Injury/Proper explosive van. engineer/Super
handling ty and  Explosives and detonator shall be transported visor/
 Fire Environment separately. Foreman/safet
 External threats al damage  Ensure spark arrester on exhaust of the y
Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
explosive Van.
 Emergency information shall be displayed on
Explosive van.
 Explosive van driven by authorized & Licensed
persons.
 Explosive shifting from magazine to site
shall be done under the supervision of
police. Police patrolling car will convoy the
explosive van.
 Quantity of explosives taken to the work
site, quantity used in the blasting &
remaining quantity after used shall be
recorded with police and concerned
department.
 Ensure explosive van equipped with fire
extinguishers.
 Blasting operation shall be conducted after
sunrise and before sunset only.
 Only required quantities shall be ordered
and used at site, In case of extra
quantities, it shall be used in
additional/spare drill holes and not to be
stored on the site.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT
9 Loading of  Explosion due to Personal 5 2 10  Ensure Blasting zone should be 5 1 5
explosive in tampering/prematu Injury/Proper properly barricaded, evacuate entire
holes/Charging redecoration ty and area, permitted only authorized
 Fire Environment person (Restricted Zone).
al damage  Person with RED flags and whistles to be
deputed at entry point. Site Blasting
 Charging of explosive in holes shall be engineer/Super
done in presence of explosive engineer, visor/
police and work supervisor. Foreman/Safet
 Charging will be done by y
authorized, trained and
experienced explosive handling
team.
 Ensure blasting team will wear anti-static
clothing and footwear.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
 Explosive material shall be handled
only by licensed blaster/shotfirer.
 Loading of explosive shall be as per approved
scheme.
 Stemming shall be carried by
stemming rod or wooden stick
 Hole stemmed by fine sand with due care.
 Detonating fuse, DTH and TLD
connections shall be done only
by blaster/shotfirer.
 No source of fire shall be present at
the charging area /blast working face.
 No Cell phone and walkie- talkie
allowed with blasting team at
the Blasting Face.
 No Cell phone and walkie- talkie allowed
with in 5m from blasting initiation
location (shotfirer cabin).
 No electrical detonator will be handled or
connected in the presence of 2-way
radios or mobile phones and that it will
bekept under lock until it is safe to be
connected after clearance before blasting
will be executed.
 Adequate quantity for the explosive shall
be brought to sites per the blasting
requirement
 Blasting team must check misfires after the
blasting and collect it from the site safely.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
10 Blasting  Explosion Personal 5 2 10  Police and authorized person will
 Noise Injury/Proper check the portal thoroughly
 Vibration ty and before giving clearance for blast.
 Flying rocks Environment  Blasting will not be carried out
 Displacement of loose al damage without approval of all
boulders over portal area stakeholders
(Public/Government/Saudi
electricity company etc.) to avoid
any damage to their
property/Assets etc
 Keep away all human and
animals 500 m away from the
face before blasting
 Keep away all equipment 300
m away from blasting zone Site Blasting
 Surrounding area warned by engineer/Super
blowing siren and voice message visor/
through speakers Foreman/Safet
 Electrical Detonator y
connected and handled by
Blaster/shotfirer only
 Use fuse wire of adequate length for
extension
 Explosion / shot Firing shall be carried by
blaster/shotfireronly.
 All person will be assembling at safe
distance of 500m away from the
blasting zone.
 Vibration monitoring to be done for every
blast and record to be maintained.
 Emergency team and rescue team
to be available at location to
handle
the emergency situation.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
 Blaster/shotfirer and police team will
visit the location for visual checking after
defaming
 Ensure scaling to be done over portal
area and loose rocks and boulders to
be removed.
11 After Blast  Dust 5 2 10  Defaming will be carried by high-speed fan. 5 1 5
 Asphyxiation  Oxygen level to be monitored by real time
 Emission of gases monitoring.
 Water to be sprinkled on muck by jet
spray to settle down the dust.
 After defaming, measure the gas
limits and it shall be under allowable
limits before entering the portals
 Blaster/shotfirer and police team will visit the
location for checking the location
 Ventilation system shall be start after blasting
to remove toxic gasses and fumes from the Site Blasting
tunnel engineer/Super
 Safety team shall conduct air quality visor/
monitoring after the blast
Foreman/safety
visual checking after defaming process
and measurement of gas limit.
 Team shall be equipped with hand
torch for illumination [Link]
torch shall be intrinsically safe.
 Area shall be thoroughly inspected for
checking misfire and un blasted explosive
cartridges.
 Completion of Blasting declared by blowing
siren.
 If any misfire hole found at location,
immediately inform to the concerned
team.

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party

12 Misfire  Explosion 4 3 12  Misfires shall not be blast before re 4 2 8

asessing (dynamic risk assessment) the
areas, due to the blast nearby the
soil/earth will not be as hard as it was
before the blast, in this scenario clearance
zone shall be reassessed because rocks
probably fly more further than the initial
clearance zone.
 Only shotfirer is allowed to enter the misfire
zone.
 The Shotfirer will determine if the misfire
can be safely initiated and will determine
what equipment and materials are Site Blasting
required to safely complete this process. engineer/Super
 The Shotfirer will prepare the misfire for visor/Foreman/
initiation. Safety
 After successful misfire initiation,
Shotfirer will inspect the blast area.
 Completion of blasting operation will be
declared by blowing siren.
 Unauthorized personal are not allowed to
enter the zone

 All personal and animals shall keep away

1000m from blasting zone in case of
misfire which could lead to another blast.
 Clean the rock surface from loose stones
which may eject easily if gases vent
through the collar of the blast hole.

Rev_01
RISK ASSESSMENT
 Avoid stemming shorter than the burden
distance. Too short stemming may create
crater effect.
 Use of good and proper size of stemming
material.
 Proper drilling and firing pattern
 Check that right amount of explosive
 Leave some rock from previous blast in

Rev_01
 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Residual Risk Responsible

SN Activity Hazard Hazard effect Control Measures
L S RF L S RF Party
front of the face.
 In built up areas, Cover the Blast with
Heavy mat (energy absorbing mat) or
Rubber blasting mats made of scrap tires
which are cut into sections and twined
together with steel wires

Prepared By Reviewed By Approved By

Name
Position
Date
Signature

Rev_01
 43. Appendices

• Specific Procedure for Blasting:

• Blasting Exclusion Zone Checklist
• Blasting Explosives Request Form
• Blasting Notification and Submission Template
• Blasting Notification instructions
• Blasting Report
• Blasting Sketch for benches and slopes
• Burning Station (Close View)
• Burning Station (Location Map)
• Charging Pattern Report
• Emergency Evacuation Procedure for blasting
• Environmental Checklist for Blasting
• Environmental Checklist
• Explosives Order Template
• Firing Pattern
• ISO Certificate
• Misfire Investigation Template
• Post Blasting Inspection Checklist
• Pre-Blast Meeting
• Quality Checklist for Blasting
• Safety Checklist for Blasting
• Sensitive receptor Mapping
• Sketch Blasting Pit for Misfire
• Technical Details Report

Rev_01
 Blasting Exclusion Zone Readiness Check sheet
Contractor: Blast Number:
Blast Date: Planned Blasting Time:
Worksite / Lot: Exclusion zone radii:
ALL CHECKS TO BE CONFIRMED BY SIGNATURE DATE AND TIME, NO BOXES ARE TO BE LEFT BLANK UNLESS SHADED
Contractor Blasting Contractor Construction
Contractor Shotfirer Engineer Manager EPM Construction Manager
Site Evacuation and Re-entry Actions /
Full Name Full Name Full Name Full Name Comments:
Checks
Initials Date and time Initials Date and time Initials Date and time Initials Date and time
Section 1 - Blast Notification
Blast notification submitted at least 48 hours prior
planned blast, is correct and has sufficient detail

Acknowledgement received from adjacent sites

(sites to be noted in the comments)

Acknowledgement received from all contractors

working nearby Blast area

Acknowledgement received from the EPM and an

EPM representative present on site
Acknowledgement received from sensitive receptors
(to be noted in comments) and monitoring devices
installed nearby

Acknowledgement received from public concern /

stakeholders (if any)?

Acknowledgement received from infrastructure as

required (e.g. roads)?

Have visitors (if any) at site been identified, and

communicated of the blast?

Acknowledgement received from others (to be noted

in comments as required)

Blast notification boards updated at all relevant office

locations
Section 2 - Blast Exclusion Zones (Not to be commenced until Section 1 is fully confirmed by signatures)
Pre-blast safety briefing completed and all parties
agree to proceed
Confirmation issued to verification group of planned
blast following works progression, at least 3hrs prior
to blast
Minimum 300m (for plant) and 500m (personnel)
perimeters established at least 1hr prior to planned
blast - signs ready
Signage and access control persons in place at
minimum 500m exclusion zone at all Roads

Signage and access control persons in place at

mimimum 500m exclusion zone at all adjacent sites

Signage and access control persons in place at

minimum 500m exclusion zone at all Site Entrances
Signage and access control persons in place at
minimum 500m exclusion zone within Spine
Excavation
Flags raised at all access control locations to confirm
no unauthorised access. All access control persons
have workable radios

CONFIRMATION OF BLAST AREA EXCLUSION

ZONE CLEAR OF ALL PERSONNEL AND PLANT
Section 3 - Blast Readiness (Not to be commenced until Section 2 is fully confirmed by signatures)
Confirmation blast is prepared as per approved blast
plan
Section 4 - Post-blast checks (Not to be commenced until Section 3 is fully confirmed by signatures)
Confirmation that minimum 15 minutes waiting time
has lapsed since blast prior to conducting inspection

Confirmation that post-blast inspection is complete

In case of misfire detection (N/A if no misfire), has Note: If misfire detected, exclusion
a misfire confirm notification been issued and zones & blast guards with flags to
acknowledged by all parties? remain in place
Confirmation that all explosives have fired -
Confirmation of all clear to enter

Verification group contacted to inform all parties that

blast area is all clear

Flags removed and blast guards removed from

patrol area
Section 5 - Blast completion (Not to be commenced until Section 4 is fully confirmed by signatures)
Confirmation of blast completion and post blast
safety briefing complete
18-606000-4200000029-NBL-CIV-M ST-000013 Rev_01
 BLASTING EXPLOSIVES REQUEST NO.01

TOTAL DRILLING DEPTH 5,485.00 m

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOLES 1077
AVERAGE DEPTH 7.00 m

ITEMS DESCRIPTIONS QUANTITIES

kgs.

Prillex 11,425 kg
kgs.

Kemulex 540 kgs

Kemulex

pcs kgs.
Booster 200g

pcs

U500 6.00 m 770.00 pcs

U500 10.00 m 281.00 pcs

U500 15.00 m 26.00 pcs

Sanel pcs

QR25 3.60 m 50 pcs

0.00 pcs

QR17 3.60 m 1050 pc

TOTAL SANEL pcs

Electric Detonator 5.00 m pcs

Prepared and reviewed by,

(Submitted by)

Contractor: Approved by: Approved by:

ARABIAN ARROW MINING CO. BECHTEL

Dated: Dated: Dated:

Rev_01
 Blasting Notifications Instructions
Timeline (in
Accountable
relation to Action
owner(s)
planned blast)
Create Blast Notice Document
Notice to ensure it is representative of the site
including but not limited to:
- Excavation extents
- Access roads inside and outside the site
Contractor
1 T - 96 to 48 hrs - Site entrances
Blasting Eng.
- Safety person and “No Entry” sign positions
- Adjacent sites
- Office locations
- Sensitive Receptors with recording locations
identified
Contractor
2 T - 48 hrs Submit Blast Notice in EDMS
Blasting Eng.
3 T - 48 to 36 hrs Review Blast Notice EPM CM
EPM Gov.
Once accepted, distribute blast notice to all
4 T - 36 hrs Relations
stakeholders
Officer
Blast notification board updated at all relevant office
5 T - 36 hrs Contractor CM
areas
Confirm acknowledgement of blast notice receipt Contractor CM
6 T - 36 to 24 hrs
from all stakeholders EPM CM
DAY OF BLAST
Complete pre-blast safety briefing, led by the
Start of blast Contractor CM
7 Contractor CM, attended by all involved with blast.
day All parties to agree with blast continuation EPM CM
Inform all stakeholders of blast progression via
8 T - 3 hrs Contractor CM
verification group
Prepare exclusion zone notification boards and
Contractor CM
9 T - 2 hrs ensure all signs and flags are in position, ready to
display EPM CM
Remove all plant from minimum 300m plant
10 T - 1 hr Contractor CM
exclusion zone
Remove all personnel from minimum 500m
11 T - 1 hr Contractor CM
personnel exclusion zone
When blasting preparation is complete, full visual
sweep of the blast area exclusion zone is to be
Contractor
carried out. During the sweep, upon passing access
Shotfirer (within
control persons, the Contractor CM will ensure “No
exclusion zone)
Entry” signs are displayed and flags risen in all
12 T - 30 mins required locations. E.g.
Contractor CM
- Roads
(around the
- Site Offices
exclusion zone
- Adjacent Sites
boundary)
- Site Entrances
- Spine Excavation
Confirm blast area exclusion zone is clear of Contractor
13 T - 10 mins
personnel and plant Shotfirer

Rev_01
 Timeline (in
Accountable
relation to Action
owner(s)
planned blast)
Confirm blast is prepared as per the approved blast Contractor
14 T - 10 mins
plan Shotfirer
Complete confirmation of blast readiness radio call, Contractor
15 T - 5 mins led by the Contractor shotfirer, with all involved with Shotfirer
blast. All parties to agree with blast continuation EPM CM
Contractor
16 T – 0 mins Initiate blast
Shotfirer
Complete 15-minutes waiting period after blast prior Contractor
17 T + 0 to 15 mins
to any re-entry Shotfirer
Contractor
18 T + 15 mins Complete post-blast inspection for misfire detection
Shotfirer
If misfires detected, issue notification to the
T + 15 to 30 Contractor CM
19 verification group confirming misfires found and
mins EPM CM
exclusion zone is to be maintained until further notice
Contractor
Shotfirer
20 As required If misfires detected, repeat items 12 – 16
Contractor CM
EPM CM
If confirmed that all explosives have fired, verification Contractor CM
21 T + 30 mins
group updated to confirm “all clear” EPM CM
Remove “No-entry” signs and flags from all blast
22 T + 30 mins Contractor CM
guard locations
T + 30 to 60 Complete post-blast safety briefing with all on site, Contractor CM
23
mins led by the Contractor CM EPM CM

No-entry signs and flag example:

Removable
flag

Sign size: A0
(841mm x 1189mm)

Rev_01 Page 103 of 124

 BURNING
STATI
ON
FOR
PACKA
GING
&CUT
DOWN
SHOC
K
TUBES

(Blasting Contractor)

Rev_01
 Classification | Internal

Annex I – Blasting Environmental Checklist (to be completed for every blast)

Blast Location Area References

Coordinates ESIA Cat III SPINE Earthworks
Blast Date ESMP - Environmental and Social Management Plan
Blast Number Environmental Accord – SPINE Earthworks
PIC
CEM

# Checklist Yes No N/A Comment (if needed)

Before each Blast
1 Is Person in Charge (PIC) appointed, approved and in place?
2 Is PIC familiar with Accord/ ESIA/ permit conditions for blasting works?
3 Is PIC aware of all requirements and obligations stipulated in the Method of Statement?
4 Is PIC familiar with mapping of receptors?
5 Is Construction Environment Manager (CEM) in place?
6 Is CEM familiar with mapping of receptors?

7 Has pre-job walkover conducted before blast?

8 Has TBT (Toolbox talk) conducted to all personnel involve in blasting activities?

9 Are all access to blast areas identified and secured?

10 Have all Contractors working in the vicinity of the blasting site been notified prior to the commencement of blasting?
Have a visual check for any Bedouins in the vicinity of the blast area undertaken (esp. if exclusion zone extends outside LUP) -
11
clearance and secure access to exclusion zone is secure and restrcicted?

Any visual presence of avifauna/ fauna near/ within exclusion zone during pre-blast survey?
12
if yes, were they scared off - guided out of area to safe zone?
13 Any bird nests detected near within exclusion zone? (If yes, inform EPM and postpone blasting activities)
Any presence of Spiny Tail Lizards or burrows visually identified near or within exclusion zone before pre blast survey? (If yes, inform
14
EPM and postpone blasting activities)
15 Any presence of roosting bats visually identified during pre-blast survey? (if yes, inform EPM and postpone blasting activities)
16 Are identified heritage sites inspected before blasting and status documented for a pre-post blast assessment?

Is water used during blasting? Damp Suppression?

17 Are dump suppression water tanker separately dedicated and available during the time of blasting?
if water is used, is water treatment according to permit conditions?
18 Groundwater monitoring in place?

19 All arrangements to manage waste per project requirements in place?

20 Hazardous materials and waste are stored per permit requirements?

21 Ventilation system working?

22 Air quality monitoring in place?
23 Noxious gas monitoring in place?
24 Blast vibration monitoring in place?
25 AOP monitoring in place?
26 Fly rock controls in place?
27 Blast fumes controls in place?

28 Is a grievance mechanism to receive complaints in place

29 Is an emergency plan available, tested and effective?

30 Is map of receptors up-to-date for this blast

After each Blast

31 Any grievance received
32 Heritage sites inspected after blasting?
33 Any damage observed to heritage sites?
34 Any observation of fauna during blasting?

35 Was vibration limits exceeded?

36 Was AOP limits exceeded?

37 Was emergency plan activated?

Signatures Pre-blast check Post-blast check

Name Signature Time Signature Time

PIC

CEM

Classification | Internal

Rev_01
 Classification | Internal

Contractor: Approved by: Approved by:

BECHTEL
ARABIAN ARROW MINING CO.

Dated: Dated: Dated:

Classification | Intern

Rev_01
Emergency Evacuation Plan

 An assembly point will be marked outside the danger zone of blasting and all
concerned shall be informed. All concerned shall report there in case of any
emergency. All persons other thanthose required for blasting shall be evacuated to a
safe place before blasting. Persons will not take shelter under any temporary
structures or at places other than those indicated by the Blasting Engineer, Police on
duty or the guards deputed for the purpose.

Emergency scenarios relevant to blast activities include those that could lead to the unplanned
detonation of explosives, such as lightning strike, fire on an explosive’s vehicle, heating caused
by elevated temperatures or

reactive ground, and those that could result in significant misfire risks such as major wall failure
above a blast area or flooding. These scenarios are managed according to site emergency
response procedures.

In the event of an emergency situation that could lead to unplanned detonation, all personnel
working within the designated Blast Exclusion Zone must be evacuated. Blast guards must be
posted to the relevant positions to ensure that the effects of any potential unplanned initiation
are minimized.

In the case of lightning, established response procedures should define how to identify the point
at which an approaching thunderstorm is considered a risk. The communication and clearance
protocols necessary to evacuate and secure the emergency blast exclusion zone and re-entry
procedures. Storm warning systems should be utilized so that sufficient time is available to
empty MPU hoses and augers, evacuate equipment and personnel, and secure safe exclusion
zones around the blast area and explosives vehicle park-up area.

In the case of a fire on an explosives transport vehicle an attempt to extinguish must only be
made if the fire has been witnessed to have just started, if it is safe to do so (i.e. not directly
associated with an AN, ANFO or explosives storage area), and the person has been
appropriately trained. In such cases, an emergency is to be called on the radio, the vehicle fuel
isolated and the fire managed with on-board extinguishers. Otherwise, the area shall be
immediately evacuated and an emergency exclusion zone established, with no other vehicles
are
to enter the area. The fire will be managed by the fire response team and re-entry prevented
until the fire has burned out and the area has been cleared.
In the case of expected flooding or wall failure, where immediate evacuation is not deemed
necessary, restricted access may apply while the partially completed blast is prepared for firing
to remove an otherwise significant misfire risk at a later time.
In emergency response scenarios, personnel may be directed to close the roadways and
access paths to the designated Blast Exclusion Zone for the duration of the emergency event
at the discretion of the site management team.

In accordance with site emergency procedures and/or the explosives company emergency
procedures, the Blast Exclusion Zone may be altered from the original plan, with due
consideration given to the risk potential of the situation. In this event the parameters of the
Blast Exclusion Zone will be communicated to all personnel in accordance with site procedures.

Rev_01
Before the trial blasting for intake area, site emergency team shall be organized and require
emergency equipment shall arrive at the site.

When work is carried out in the intake area, a fully functional and suitably equipped ambulance
with driver and a paramedical staff trained in First Aid shall be available close to the site of
works and not obstruct with movement of construction machinery and personnel or performance
of construction activity.

The Contractor shall also provide trained crew in the immediate vicinity of ongoing works at all
times that work is taking place, in case of emergency.

At the workface entrance, one Sign Board for emergency shall be set and all signs shall be
described in three languages: English, Arabic and Urdu. And post all emergency response
telephone numbers, including medical response and fire department, phone numbers of all site
supervisors. Plan should be clearly communicated and understood by all personnel.

In case of emergency or accident, the discoverer shall immediately report to the employer, the
engineer Supervisor and the project manager after verification, meanwhile calling the
emergency telephone, and report the specific situation to the engineer and the employer after
investigation and verification.

Rev_01
 ESIA, cat3, environmental & social impact assessment

ESMP, cat2 environmental & social management plan

Environmental Accord from MEWA (permit to work/conditions)

Required compliance Yes No Pass Fail Not applicable Other Comments

Blast vibration controlled / mitigated?

Gas / air quality index prepared or checked?

Air over pressure mitigated?

Water recycling practiced?

Ventilation system compliant?

t and equipment to reduce CO2 omissions that access the tunnel?

Toolbox talk with all personnel involved in blasting activities?

Access routes and roads to blast areas identified?

Access routes and roads to blast areas secured?

Blast notifications issued and placed timeously before blasting?

Is there any presence of people within exclusion zone noticed?

sence of avifauna, fauna or animals within exclusion zone noticed?

s there any presence of birds’ nests within exclusion zone noticed?

re any presence of spiny tail lizards within exclusion zone noticed?

Is there any presence of bats within exclusion zone noticed?

presence of heritage or cultural sites within exclusion zone noticed?

Is water used for dust suppression during the blasting activity?

Is water available for damp suppression?

e ( WTP ) / dewatering according to project requirements in place?

Is groundwater monitoring in place?

dous materials and waste stored according to permit requirements?

Is a ventilation system in place for underground blasting activities?

ality monitoring system in place for underground blasting activities?

Is a noxious gas monitoring system in place for blasting activities?

Is blast vibration monitoring system in place?

Is preventative measures taken against fly rock?

 NCB

Date of issue:
# Title
1 Delivery Date
2 Delivery Point
3 Blasting Number
4 Planned Pull Length
5 Registered shotfirer
6 Site Engineer
7 Construction Manager
8 Blaster
9 Blasting Engineer
10 Blasting Manager
11
QUANTITY
TYPE SPECIFICATION UNIT
REQUESTED ARRIVED CONSUMED REMAINING
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32

Classification | Internal
Rev_01
33
34
35
36

Blasting Engineer Site Manager

……………………… ……………………..
Blaster Senior Blaster

…………………….. ……………………..
Blasting Manager

Rev_01
 Nesma

Misfire Investigation Report

Description
Blast Number/ID
Blast Location
Misfire location coordinates/chainage
Blast date & time
Re-blasting time of misfire
Quantity and/or Type of misfires
Misfire hole ID's
Photo

Recovery by Who:
Explosives remains found Y
Quantity(s) and comments

2 cartridges found after blasting operation, during blast check,

Rev_01
Detonator(s) found Y/N
Quantity

Method followed to treat misfire(s)

Diluted with excavation and destroyed

Other comments

Confirm safe to re-enter by responsible shotfirer Y/N

Comment(s) by responsible shotfirer and or blasting supervisor

Explain reason / cause(s) and type for misfire

List of corrective actions taken

Name: Shotfirer Name: HSE Manager Name: Blasting Manager

Signature: Signature: Signature:

Date Date Date

Rev_01
 POST BLASTING INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Information
 Inspection Date & Time:

Date

 Location:

Address
Customer / Site:

Conducted By:

Blasting Crew
Blasting Engineer:

Authorized Shotfirer:

Team Members:

Pre-Charging Controls
Pre-start meeting is held to delegate the daily duties and to discuss hazards.
Yes

No
 Shotfirer reviews blast design and, if required, notifies Blasting Engineer.

Yes

No

N/A
 Shotfirer inspects bench and faces prior to operation.

Rev_01
 Yes

No

N/A
 Hole depths vs. planned depths are inspected and recorded.

Yes

No
 Holes are inspected for wet conditions prior to charging and inspections are recorded.

Yes

No
Risk Management
Take Risk assessment completed for identified hazards and required controls are
implemented.

Yes

No
Blasting Report Risk Assessment Form is completed prior to blast hole charging operations.

Yes

No
The distance to closest structure, clearance zone distance and burden spacing are identified
on Blasting Report Risk Assessment Form prior to charging operations.

Yes

No

Incomplete
 Hazards such as fly rock, misfire and/or NOx identified during risk assessment.

Yes

No
 What controls are in place to control those risks?
 A clearance distance is identified for working near free face/ under highwalls.

Yes

Rev_01
 No

N/A
 Blasting Crew is aware of and complying with the clearance distances.

Yes

No

N/A
 Fall protection is provided for works near free face or where fall from height is potential.

Yes

No

N/A
Blasting Area Clearance and Delineation
Blasting area is clearly demarcated to prevent unauthorized access.

Yes

No
Blasting Area is inspected before commencing any work.

Yes

No

N/A
Access to blasting area is under control.

Yes

No

N/A
 Authorized Shotfirer and Blasting Team are familiar with the Blasting Area Entry
Procedure.

Yes

No

Incomplete

Rev_01
 Add Photo

Media
Traffic Management and Blasting Operation Vehicles
 Is there any site-specific Traffic Management Plan in place?

Yes

No
 Risks of potential hazards arise from vehicle/ truck traffic on site are identified and
managed.

Yes

No

N/A
What controls in place to manage traffic?

Other (please specify):

Randomly select one of the blasting operation vehicles and check whether Prestart
Inspection Checklist Form is completed.

Completed

Incomplete
Add Photo.

Media
Records & Documentation
Delivery trucks are stock taken prior to unloading and stock take records are maintained.

Yes

No
 Excessive/ Surplus products are return in compliance with the Product Return Procedure.

Yes

No

N/A

Rev_01
 Randomly select one of product types on delivery truck, conduct blind stock take and
compare results with Road Permit & Dispatch Note data.

Compliant

Noncompliant
 Comments (in case of discrepancy)
 Add Photo.

Media
Blasting Area Clearance
 Spotters are identified and assigned for blasting safety zone.

Yes

No
Blasting clearance distances are in place as 300 m (for machinery/ equipment) and 500 m
(for human & animals).

Yes

No

N/A
No any structure/ plant/ equipment is present inside the clearance zone.

Yes

No
structure/ plant/ equipment inside the clearance zone have been included in risk
assessment and notified to stakeholders.

Yes

No

N/A
Transportation
 Explosives and detonators are transferred with different vehicles or in separate
compartments at the same vehicle.

Yes

No

Rev_01
 N/A
 Explosives are kept locked and supervised during break/ rest times.

Yes

No

N/A
Post Blasting Inspections
 Spotters do not leave their area of duty while post blasting inspections are carried out and
ensure clearance zone safety.

Yes

No
Explosives packaging’s are disposed in compliance with the procedures post blast.

Yes

No

Other
Other (specify):
Shotfirer is familiar with actions to take in case of any misfire

Yes

No

N/A
Results
General Comments

Conducted By:

Designation:

Date:

Signature:

Rev_01
 PRE-BLAST MEETING
Contractor/Subcontractor:
Rev: Date: …… / ….. / 202 ….
Portal: Time: ….. : …..
Tunnel: Blast No: ………………
S: Short Hole
L: Long Hole
C: Clogged
Le: Left Empty
Ex: Extra Charg.

Notes: ………………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Name Name Name

Signature Signature Signature

Blasting Dept. Construction Dept. Geotech. Department

Rev_01
 Blast Location
Safety
SHEQ checklist

Blast Date

Quality - Drilling and Blasting Checklist Blast Number

Drawing, SOP, specification, standard number, reference

ESIA, cat3, environmental & social impact assessment

ESMP, cat2 environmental & social management plan

Environmental Accord from MEWA (permit to work/conditions)

Required compliance Yes No Pass Fail Not applicable Other Comments

1 Is the approved quality of explosive used?

2 Certified registered shot firer present?

3 Approved blast design & drill pattern available and used?

4 Adequate and correct stemming available?

5 As-build drill plan available

6 Timing and connecting plan available and followed

7 Firing circuit tested for continuity and insulation?

8 Explosives consumption and reconciliation done?

9 Confirm explosives shelf-life dates

10 Confirm explosives conditions is in compliance with SDS

11 Confirm burden, spacing and drill depth's

12 Blasting equipment serviceable

13 Is the blaster-in-charge making a record of each blast?

14 Ground water control

15

34

Prepared By Check by Check by

 Nesma
------Safety Checklist

Safety Blast
Location

Blast Date

Blast
Drilling and Blasting Number

Drawing, SOP, specification,

standard number, reference
ESIA, cat3, environmental & social
impact assessment
ESMP, cat2 environmental & social
management
plan
Environmental Accord from MEWA
(permit to
work/conditions)

Required compliance Yes No Pass Fail Not

Applicable
Blasting shelter available? Other Comments
Blasting equipment locked?
First aider & first aid equipment
available?
Ambulance available?
Blasting siren and notices
available?
"Explosives - Keep Out" signs
posted in both
English and Arabic?
Fire extinguishers available?
Fire Life safety system - Fire
Detection -
Suppression system -Water supply
Access control & token system in
place?
Explosives transported according
to procedures?
Explosives stored in approved
magazines?
Detonators transported in separate
insulated
boxes?
Explosives transported in an
approved vehicle?
Communication systems
Emergency Egress and vehicle
access
Possible Accident Scenarios and
Action Plans
Contingency Measures
Before Blast
Evacuation plans available?
Blast location evacuation
confirmed?
Proof of blasting crew's training?
Blast location cleared of people
prior to hook-up

Classification | Company General Use

Rev_01
Blast location barricaded for re-
entry after hookup?
Blasting notices & signal given?
Blasting performed from inside
blasting shelter?

No radio transmitters allowed

within 30m to the
blast location?
Blasting operations suspended With Police
during an Coordination if
electrical storm?
Precautions in place to mitigate
stray currents?

After Blast
Shot exploder disconnected from
the firing line
Confirm blast result, any misfires?
Misfire, destruction of old
explosives procedures
followed?
All-clear notices & signal given for
re-entry?
Ventilation started?
Air quality monitoring?
Access control activated for re-
entry?

Prepared By Check by Check by

EPM

Classification | Company General Use

Rev_01
 BLASTING REPORT
Date of Blasting:
Location:
Chainage Length:
Chainage Length:
Type of Blasting:

Blasting Area/ SANEL Electronic

Prillex Kemulex Booster
Nos. Bench Unidet QR Det.

1 6400 m² 11425 Kgs. 540 1077 1100 5

2
3
4
5
6

1 2 3 4 5 6
Nos. of
1077
Holes
Average
7
Depth
Holes
Diameter 64
Volume of
Blasted
Powder
Factor 0.3 kgs. per cubic m.

Remarks:

Contractor: Approved by: Approve by:

ARABIAN ARROW MINING CO.

Dated: Dated: Dated:

Classification | Internal

Rev_01