Unit Assessment Document M/601/9060 ©MPQC July 2010

Unit number: / M/601/9060
Title: / Blast to Specification
Level: / 3
Credit value: / 13
Learning outcomes
The learner will: / Assessment criteria
The learner can:
1 Understand how to Blast to Specification / 1.1 Explain the relevant approved procedures for the blast in the context of the operation,to include:
  • Legislation
  • Site rules
  • Responsibilities under Health & Safety Requirements
  • Safe working practices
  • Available guidance
1.2 Clarify the hazards associated with the blast in the context of the operation, to Include:-
  • Premature detonation
  • Premature ignition
  • Adverse environmental effects
  • Misfires and unexploded charges
  • Post blast slippage of ground
  • The need for edge protection
  • Causes of Flyrock
  • Dangers from Flyrock
  • Effects of fumes from the blast
1.3 Summarise the setting up of the blast In the context of theoperation, to include:-
  • Types of detonating devices
  • Types of shotfiring equipment
  • Types of explosives
  • Types of initiation
  • Types of circuit testers
  • Circuit testing
  • Actions on the event of faults
  • How delays are set on delayed detonators
  • Blast patterns
  • Sequencing and time delays
  • Warning systems
  • Duties and powers of sentries
  • Public roads and rights of way
  • Monitoring systems
  • Communication systems
1.4 Explain post-blast operations, to Include:-
  • Issues likely to arise from the blast operation
  • Methods for dealing with misfires
  • Acceptable conditions for the post blast area
  • Accurate recording of blast performance

2Be able to carry out blasting operations / 2.1 Demonstrate how to check and complete the initiation circuit inthe context of the operation.To include:
  • Accurate connection of the ignition system in accordance with the blast specification
  • Protection of the circuit
  • Operational safety procedures
  • Actions in the event of problems
  • Checks carried out on the system
2.2 Demonstrate how the danger zone is cleared and secured, toinclude:-
  • Checking the limits of the danger zone against the blast specification
  • Posting of sentries
  • Securing of the danger zone
  • Checking of warning systems
  • Safe location of firing station
  • Clear warning given
  • Maintenance of safety precautions
  • Actions in the event of problems
2.3 Demonstrate how to sound warning and fire the blast in the context of the operation, to include:-
  • Operation of warning systems
  • Confirmation of security in the danger zone
  • Firing position on accordance with the blast specification
  • Maintenance of security of exploder
  • Firing takes place when all safety precaution shave been verified
  • Actions in the event of problems
  • Work carried out to approved procedures and practices
2.4 Demonstrate how to carry out a post blast inspection, to include:-
  • Allowing fume to disperse before inspection commences
  • Correct inspection of area
  • Accurate updating of records
  • Prompt reporting of problems
  • Actions in the event of problems
  • Re-entry procedures are followed
2.5 Demonstrate how the records of the blasting operation are maintained, to Include:-
  • Post blast inspection information
  • Explosives stock records
  • Actions in the event of problems
  • Survey results are recorded correctly and actioned of necessary

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