Vulcan Construction Materials, LP SURFACE DRILLING & BLASTING STANDARDS. Vulcan Print Shop Form #2220

Transcription

1 Vulcan Construction Materials, LP SURFACE DRILLING & BLASTING STANDARDS Vulcan Print Shop Form #2220

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. SCOPE, APPLICATION, AND PURPOSE II. SAFETY... 3 III. BLAST DESIGNS... 3 IV. DRILLING A. DRILLING SUPERVISION... 4 B. SHOT LAYOUTS A. PRE-DRILLING INSPECTIONS B. DRILL OPERATING PRACTICES C. POST-DRILLING INSPECTIONS C. GENERAL DRILLING SAFETY D. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS V. EXPLOSIVES A. QUALIFICATIONS B. INITIATION SYSTEMS C. TYPE OF EXPLOSIVE D. STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES E. ON SITE TRANSPORT OF EXPLOSIVES F. ELECTRIC DETONATORS AND RF ENERGY HAZARDS G. GENERAL HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES H. QUALITY CONTROL I. AUGERS, STORAGE, HANDLING & MIXING SYSTEMS VI. BLASTING A. PRE-CHARGING SURVEY B. CHARGING PROCEDURES C. BLAST MONITORING: SEISMOGRAPHS D. BLASTING PROCEDURES E. GENERAL SAFETY PRACTICES F. SPECIAL BLASTING PRACTICES G. POST-SHOT EVALUATION VII. SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL A. SHOTGUARDING B. COMPLAINT HANDLING C. ENVIRONMENTAL APPENDIX A TABLE ii

3 ATTACHMENTS: FORM A STANDARD BLAST DESIGN (Vulcan Print Shop #1981, Form A) FORM B STANDARD BLASTING PROCEDURES (Vulcan Print Shop #1979, Form B) FORM C DIVISION DRILL LOG (Vulcan Print Shop #4117, Form C) FORM D DIVISION BLASTING REPORT (Vulcan Print Shop #3874, Form D) FORM E DIVISION COMPLAINT FORM (Vulcan Print Shop #1969, Form E) FORM F BLASTING CHECKLIST(Vulcan Print Shop #2289, Form F) FORM G DRILLING AND BLASTING STANDARDS AUDIT (Vulcan Print Shop #2292, Form G) iii

4 I. SCOPE, APPLICATION, AND PURPOSE These Drilling and Blasting Standards (sometimes referred to herein as "Standards") apply to: Quarry, Division The purpose of these Standards is to produce a safe, effective, and consistent drilling and blasting program that can be used by all Vulcan Materials Company (VMC) operations. This document sets out the Standards by which this operation will use explosives so as to improve drilling and blasting practices and to enhance safety standards set by existing regulation. In the event it is determined that a provision of these Drilling and Blasting Standards is not appropriate for a particular operation because of circumstances peculiar to that operation, then that provision can be modified only upon written request from the Vice President responsible for the operation and upon approval by the Division President. A copy of the Division President's approval of a modification of these Standards shall be provided to the Company's General Counsel. No standard should be regarded as replacing or superseding any existing statute. All federal, state, and local regulations will continue to be observed at all VMC operations. These Drilling and Blasting Standards will be effective as of / /. There shall be no material deviations in practice from these Standards without the express approval of all the persons signing this document and a finding by such persons that: (1) such deviation(s) are immediately necessary for the protection of safety, human health, or the uninterrupted operations of the quarry; (2) such deviation(s) are as protective of safety, human health, and the community as these Standards; and (3) such deviation(s) are limited in duration and not repetitive in nature. The persons signing this document shall not approve such one-time deviation(s) as a means of circumventing the requirement that a modification of the provisions of these Standards must be approved by a Division Vice President and the Division President. A record of each one-time deviation shall be made a part of the blasting report for the shot with respect to which the deviation is approved. Divisions will perform an audit of each operation on an annual basis, utilizing FORM G, Surface Drilling and Blasting Standards Audit. These Drilling and Blasting Standards are intended to document safe practices related to the on-site use, storage, and transportation of explosives. While these Standards are designed to address situations which have the potential to cause injury and property damage, they cannot cover every potential hazard that might be encountered, nor do they cover every Federal, State, and Local regulation applicable to drilling and blasting operations. Personnel who have responsibility for onsite supervision, as well as those who are assigned tasks related to drilling and blasting, have a personal responsibility to know and observe safe practices and to understand and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Plant management and employees with responsibility for drilling and blasting operations are expected to be fully qualified through experience, training, knowledge and skill to comply with all applicable requirements and to address all related safety issues. *SUPERINTENDENT *SUPERINTENDENT DESIGNEE(S) DATE DATE 1

5 *AREA MANAGER DATE *It is recognized that different titles are used by the divisions for essentially the same position. In those cases where the titles shown on this page are not appropriate, then they should be changed to conform to the titles used by that division. In the event there is a change in the supervisor(s) signing this document, the newly appointed supervisor(s) shall sign a copy of this page acknowledging their familiarity and agreement with these Standards. The following forms are included in these standards as examples: Form A Standard Blast Design (VMC 1981) Form B Quarry Standard Blasting Procedures (must be made quarry specific) (VMC 1979) Form C Vulcan Materials Company Drill Log (VMC 4117) Form D Vulcan Materials Company Blasting Report (VMC-3874) Form E Vulcan Materials Company Complaint Form (VMC -1969) Form F Blasting Checklist (VMC-2289) Form G Drilling and Blasting Standards Audit (VMC-2292) The divisions may use substitute forms if they provide at least the same information that is requested in the samples. 2

6 II. SAFETY Safety is the first and foremost concern for all drilling and blasting operations performed at VMC sites. Everyone is responsible for ensuring that safe practices are utilized at all times in drilling and blasting. If you have any questions or concerns about safety, you are to consult with your immediate supervisor or with anyone else in management. Under no circumstances is anyone to undertake an activity that he or she believes to be unreasonably dangerous or hazardous. Safety is everyone s concern and responsibility. III. BLAST DESIGNS 1. Whether the blast is designed by VMC employees or a contractor, the blast design will be the responsibility of the Plant Superintendent. 2. Details of the accepted Standard Blast Designs for this operation, specifying base charges, deck charges, stemming, hole timing, surface timing, burden and spacing, etc., are shown on FORM A. 3. Any restrictions on the maximum number of holes, pounds per delay, or total pounds in a shot will be indicated on the Standard Blast Designs on FORM A. 4. No major change in the Standard Blast Designs can be made unless written authorization to do so has been given by the Area Manager. Minor changes or altering of design due to field circumstances can be made following the procedures given in Section VI parts A, B, C and D. 3

7 IV. DRILLING A. DRILLING SUPERVISION Whether the drilling is accomplished by VMC employees or a contractor, the drilling and ensuing activities are the responsibility of the Plant Superintendent. Outside drilling contractors will be informed of and operate in compliance with the standards below. Contractors also will be required to abide by all applicable local, state, and federal regulations and Vulcan Materials Company policies. Drilling supervision will include checking of the actual pattern drilled compared to the designed burdens, spacings, hole depths, and alignment. At this operation, drilling is to be done by: (Check) In House Contractor Both B. SHOT LAYOUTS 1. At this operation, the shot will be laid out by: Final approval of the shot layout is the responsibility of the Plant Superintendent. 2. If a physical condition is found (e.g., major cracks, extreme backbreak, etc.) that will prevent successful drilling of the shot as it was designed, the Plant Superintendent and blaster will be notified and the shot will be redesigned. 3. In laying out the shot, the following will be taken into account: a. Location of employees not involved in the drilling operations. b. Proximity of inhabited buildings. c. Any other buildings, structures, infrastructure, etc. d. Direction and sequence of shot. e. Geologic anomalies and weaknesses in the rock mass, such as joints, caves, loose material, etc., both above and below the shot.. f. Compliance with local ordinances g. Property boundaries. 4

8 h. Types and quantities of explosives used. i. The Standard Blast Design to be used. 4. If there are alternatives for the direction of the shot, choose the shot direction and face which minimizes the potential to cause injury or damage. 5. Measurements will be taken to assure that the burden is correct on the front row of holes. The method to be used at this location is: The remaining holes will be laid out according to the approved blast design. 6. Accurate measurement of the face height and determination of each hole elevation will be made so that the individual hole depth required is known. A level or other device should be used at least quarterly to determine actual ground elevations. 7. Recognizing that a straight line of holes is the best condition for shot design, an effort will be made to ensure that the resultant face crest will be as straight as possible unless purposely planned otherwise. 8. Each hole position will be marked by an elevated marker. The front row will be distinctively marked; subsequent rows will be distinctively marked differently than the front row. Angle holes should be uniquely identified. At this operation, front rows will be identified by: Subsequent rows will be identified by: Angle holes will be identified by: 9. The driller will ensure that the hole numbers on the drill log correspond with the numbers on the shot diagram. 10. Holes with light burden and/or poor relief will be minimized, noted and reported to the Plant Superintendent. The shot loading will be customized to conform to the burden. 11. Before persons work near the outside edge of a highwall, a distinguishing marker, tape or painted line will be placed no less than 7 feet from and parallel to the highwall edge. In the case of unstable ground due to cracks, etc., the marker will extend no less than 7 feet from the edge of unstable ground. 12. Persons laying out or inspecting shots, checking burden, loading holes, or performing any other work on foot will tie off with a safety harness and lifeline if the marker is crossed. Lifeline length will be shorter than the distance to the edge. Self-retracting lifelines are acceptable. 13. For fall prevention, lifelines will be attached to secure anchorages capable of supporting 3 times the weight of persons using them. For fall arrest, anchorages must support 5,000 pounds per person. Persons may tie off to equipment that is locked out as follows provided the lifeline is short enough to prevent falling off the wall: 5

9 a. Turn engine off. b. Place tag on steering column stating: Do Not Operate. c. Transmission is in park or gear. d. Tied off person has ignition key. e. Park brake is engaged. f. Wheels are chocked. g. Vehicle is parked a safe distance from the edge, on stable ground, and in a parallel position to the highwall. C. PRE-DRILLING INSPECTIONS 1. No person will operate, or allow to be operated, any drill rig for which that person has not been specifically trained. Trainees must be under the direct supervision of a qualified operator. 2. No person will operate, or allow to be operated, any drill rig, which is known to be in an unsafe working condition. 3. Drillers will inspect their rigs at least at the start and end of every shift and, in particular, ensure that: a. The brakes are in good working condition. b. The clutch or transmission is in good working order. c. Any required safety guards, chains, or other devices are in position. d. Dust control equipment is operating properly. 4. Before commencing work, the driller will make and record a thorough examination of the work place for potential hazards. These hazards shall be secured or removed. The hazards to be considered include, but are not limited to: a. Loose, unconsolidated material in the face area, which will not adequately support the weight of the drill. b. Mud, snow, ice or an unlevel site that may create a sliding hazard. c. Debris, uneven ground, or other obstructions that might hinder drill movement. d. Overhanging banks or rock either from above or below that present danger of collapse. 6

10 e. Other employees working directly below the drill. f. Charged or misfired holes in the area of previous shots. g. Overhead or overground electrical lines creating a shock hazard. h. Approach of an electrical storm evidenced by thunder and lightning. i. The high wall inspection should be made from several vantage points, checking for cracks, water hazards and other evidence of potential failures. 5. If the driller believes that a defect effecting safety with equipment or an unsafe condition exists in the work place, it will be reported immediately to the designated drilling supervisor. Drilling will be suspended until the supervisor gives permission to continue. 6. When drilling is to be done at the base of a highwall, special precautions must be observed. These include: a. A warning barricade will be positioned on the upper level to prevent persons scaling or dumping material on the worker below. b. During drilling operations, a second person will be at the drill site to continuously observe the highwall and be in a position to communicate effectively any danger to the driller. D. DRILL OPERATING PRACTICES 1. The driller will report any abnormal drilling conditions such as clay pockets, joints, weak ground, depth of loose material from collar, cracks, or damage to the rock face, backbreak from previous shots, and the like. These will be reported on the drill log. The drill log to be used at this operation is provided on FORM C. The drill log will become part of the permanent blasting record. The driller will submit the completed drill log to: (In all cases, the drill log will be given to the blaster that loads the shot prior to loading any holes with explosives.) 2. To ensure that the shot is completed as designed, the driller must adhere to the following: a. Holes will be drilled to depth, burden, and spacing as designed, unless there is a safety concern that prevents this being done. The driller must immediately report any unsafe conditions to: 7

11 b. Holes will be drilled within two hole diameters of the marked hole location. 3. Drillers will make every reasonable attempt to meet the drill hole angle requirement as indicated by the blast design. Leveling devices will be checked prior to drilling angle holes. 4. All pads will be attached to jacks when the drill is in use. The driller will not raise the mast or commence drilling until it is assured that the jacking pads are on solid ground (unless the drill is specifically designed to tram with the mast elevated). Special attention will be paid to cracks and damage to the rock from previous shots. 5. All holes will be taped for depth upon completion and before jacking down to move to the next hole. If the hole is short or blocked, the problem will be rectified at this time. 6. Cardboard/PVC tubes (will/will not) be used at this operation. If used, the tubes will be placed in a drilled hole as soon as possible. The tubes will be inserted to solid rock or as far as possible and sealed with cuttings. EXPLOSIVE PRODUCTS SHALL NOT BE LOADED THROUGH PVC TUBES IF THIS SITE IS USING ELECTRIC DETONATORS. 7. If holes are to be left open for, the holes will be sealed by: 8. Any loss of drill cuttings or flushing air will be noted on the drill log. 9. The driller will continually check the drill for leaks or malfunctions. 10. Drilling supervision will include checking of the actual pattern drilled compared to the designed burdens, spacings, and hole depths. 11. Only activities directly associated with blasting operations will occur within 50 feet of any explosive or initiation system, or 30 feet if the perimeter of the loaded hole is demarcated with a barrier placed around the perimeter of the hole. 12. When possible, drilling will be carried out in a sequence that will allow safe detonation of all drilled holes, if drilling operations must be terminated before the whole shot is drilled. E. POST-DRILLING INSPECTIONS 1. When a shot is to take place: a. The drill will be removed to a location where no danger to the drill will occur, as determined by the drilling supervisor and blaster in charge. 8

12 b. The drill crew will remove themselves and their equipment from the pit to a safe area as determined by the Plant Superintendent or their designee and blaster in charge. c. The drill crew will not enter the Blast Area until the all-clear signal has been given, the smoke has cleared, and all the debris has been removed to provide safe re-entry. 2. At the end of the shift, the drill must be parked in a safe position and chocked. Unless unavoidable, the drill must not be left within 50 feet of the face and the drill steel will not be left in the hole overnight. 3. Drillers that are employees of VMC must conduct an end of-shift inspection of the drill. Defects in the drilling equipment affecting safety will be brought to the attention of the drilling supervisor and corrected prior to being put back in service. 4. If a Vulcan-owned drill is to travel on public highways, the drill must be road worthy and in compliance with all Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements. Any individual who operates a drill on a public highway will obtain all licenses required by local, state, and DOT regulations before such operation. Drills should be cleaned of loose stone or other debris prior to traveling on a public highway. 5. Prior to leaving the shot, the driller will remove all used drill materials from the blast site (i.e., drill bits, grease cans, etc.). F. GENERAL DRILLING SAFETY 1. No person, including the operator, will ride on the drill unless it is specifically designed by the manufacturer to carry passengers. Any person riding in or on a drill will wear seat belts as required by regulation. 2. In any situation where the drill operator is unable to see clearly the area in which he is operating, a helper (drill spotter) will be provided to ensure that the drill can be positioned safely. 3. No drill will be operated under a highwall where the face cannot be visually examined due to obstructions or overhangs. 4. If the driller will be away from the drill for less than minutes, the drill steel will be raised to a level such that it can be secured. If the driller is to be away from the drill for more than minutes, the drill steel will be removed from the hole and the drill shut down. 5. When moving between holes, when tramming, and when parked, the mast of the drill will be fully lowered to the cradle position. The only exception will be when the manufacturer has specifically designed the drill to be moved with the mast raised and only when conditions permit. 6. The locking bar must be inserted into the rod storage rack before lowering the mast. Make sure when raising the mast that air lines, hydraulic lines, and hoist cables 9

13 do not become snagged during raising. If there are any overhead obstructions, do not raise the mast. 7. Effective dust and noise controls must be utilized for drilling to proceed. 8. The drill head is not to be used as an elevator. 9. Do not stand under the drill or rotation head where danger could arise if the hoist chain snapped. 10. Do not re-collar any previously loaded hole. 11. During loading, if it is necessary to clear out or re-drill a fresh hole, a clear and safe path must be cleared for the drill. No fresh holes will be drilled within 50 feet of loaded holes, or 30 feet if the perimeter of the loaded hole is demarcated with a barrier. 12. When required, lifelines worn by the drill crew must be used in a manner that prevents possible contact with rotating or moving components. 13. When pumping fuel into the drill, observe at all times the fill opening to prevent overfill. 14. To avoid disturbance of blast hole location markers and drill cuttings around blast holes, the only vehicles that will be permitted on a drill site are those associated with the drilling or blasting operation. 15. The drill operator will ensure that there is no loose equipment, clothing, or other material in the cab or at the drill controls that would interfere with the operation of the controls. 16. During the hours of darkness, no drill will be operated under a highwall or on the front row of holes on a highwall unless adequate lighting is provided. 17. Drill brake systems will be steam cleaned and inspected monthly. Brake airlines on truck drills will be replaced in accordance with manufacturer s recommendation. 18. Drillers will not wear any loose clothing, jewelry, or have exposed long hair that may become tangled with rotating elements of the drill. 19. Drillers are required to obey all traffic rules. G. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS 1. Overhead Electrical Lines Always LOOK UP when tramming or parking the drill. Overhead wires are not a normal hazard in the pit and may be forgotten when the drill is moved out of its normal working environment. Do not park under overhead lines. Prior to operating 10

14 around overhead electrical lines, consult the local utility for the minimum operating distance, which should be maintained. 2. Electrical Lines on the Ground Where electric motor-driven equipment is in use: a. DO NOT TOUCH the lines under any circumstances. b. DO NOT ATTEMPT to move the lines. If lines are in the way, ask the appropriate quarry personnel to have them removed. c. DO NOT DRIVE over electric lines. 3. On Approach of an Electrical Storm: a. The bit will be raised several feet above the bottom of the hole and the drill shut down. b. Drillers will not resume normal operations until cleared by the Superintendent or designee to return. 4. Standards for work on or near Electrical Distribution systems - SPI - OPS 9 a. Switching, tagging, clearance, voltage testing and temporary grounding procedures and the work permit requirement as outlined in SPI OPS 9 must be followed when working on or near electrical distribution systems above 600 volts. Review the standard for detailed requirements. 11

15 V. EXPLOSIVES For the purposes of the document, EXPLOSIVES" are defined as all explosive material used for blasting and blast initiation, including high explosives, blasting agents, primers, blasting caps, initiation systems and the like. A. QUALIFICATIONS All phases of blasting operations will be carried out by persons qualified by state and/or federal regulations or by persons working under the direct supervision of such a person. B. INITIATION SYSTEMS The initiation system to be used at this operation is: Description: Manufacturer: C. TYPE OF EXPLOSIVE The types of explosives to be used at this operation are: Description: Manufacturer: D. STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES The preferred method of storing explosives is off-site, particularly products that are stored in Type 1, 2 and 3 magazines (e.g., caps, primers and high explosives). Where the explosive vendor supplies shot service, all explosive materials will be stored off-site. An exception may be made if a variance has been approved pursuant to Section I of the Standards. Where a variance has been approved or Vulcan-owned explosives are kept on-site, the following standards will apply to such storage: 1. For the storage of explosives on Vulcan property by an outside party, storage will conform to a Vulcan license agreement for explosive storage, which shall be approved by the Vulcan Legal Department and executed by such outside party prior to the storage by such party. 2. Storage of explosives will comply with applicable federal, state and local regulations (see, e.g., Title 27, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 555, Subpart K). The Construction Materials Group Manager of Safety, with advice from the Legal Department, shall be responsible for keeping the division Managers of Safety and Health informed of the current federal regulations, and the division Managers of 12

16 Safety and Health shall be responsible for communicating the current federal, state and local regulations to the plant supervisors. 3. The keys to magazines that contain a vendor's explosives will be in the exclusive custody of such vendor. All magazines that contain Vulcan-owned explosives will be under the direct control of a person at least 21 years of age, specifically appointed by the plant supervisor for that purpose. The keys for such magazines will be in the custody of the plant supervisor(s) or their designated person(s). Name: Address: Telephone No.: 4. Detonators, class C explosives, and blasting agents will be stored separately in accordance with applicable regulations (see Title 27, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 555, Subpart K, and IME Publication #14, Part II Storage). 5. Magazines will be separated in accordance with applicable federal, state and local regulations. 6. The overall location of the magazines will be in accordance with the distances required from buildings and highways in the vicinity. 7. The construction and locking mechanism of the magazines will be as required by applicable federal, state and local regulations, and no sparking metal will be present in the magazine where it could come into contact with explosives. Padlocks for all magazines and explosives storage facilities shall be changed each time there is a change in the designated custodian of the keys pursuant to Paragraph 3, above. Padlocks for all magazines and explosive storage facilities shall be changed annually. All Type 5 and similar bulk storage bins and tanks must have ATFE approved security measures or be granted the proper variances from that agency. 8. Approaches to the magazines will be adequately posted with signs to warn unauthorized persons. 9. All explosive storage sites must be fenced, and secured according to any applicable federal, state, and or local requirements. The fence must be chain linked, at least 6 feet high, and grounded. 10. Distribution of explosives from magazines will be controlled so that the stock is regularly rotated. 11. During periods of inactivity at a quarry exceeding thirty (30) days (other than inactivity due to normal, seasonal shutdowns), explosives will not be stored at a quarry. All entrances to the quarry will be securely locked when the quarry site is unattended. 13

17 12. A visual inspection of the magazines will be conducted each work day. 13. Except when explosives are being issued or returned, the magazines will be kept locked at all times. All explosives in day boxes shall be returned to magazines at the end of each work shift during which the explosives are used. 14. Explosives will be stored in permitted facilities with notification to the local police and fire departments, as required. Any theft or loss of explosives will be reported immediately to the local police department and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms. At this operation, the contacts to be made are: POLICE: ATF: # DIVISION: 15. Any intended change in location or type or any other modification of a magazine will be reported to, and approval will be received from, the division Manager of Safety and Health in order to ensure compliance with applicable laws and Company policies before the change is implemented. 16. The Plant Superintendent will designate two competent persons to keep a record of daily summary transactions for each Vulcan owned magazine. Each daily summary will contain a record of the manufacturer s name or brand name, the total quantity received in and removed from each magazine during the day, and the total remaining on hand at the end of the day. The persons designated at this facility are: Any shortage of explosives materials will be reported immediately to the Plant Superintendent, Area Manager and Vice President in charge of that operation. Simultaneously, the ATF and other appropriate agencies will be notified. 17. The Plant Superintendent will be responsible for seeing that an annual explosives inventory is conducted for Vulcan owned magazines in accordance with Federal and State regulations. 18. All powder and cap magazines and day boxes must be kept dry, clean and orderly. No other materials, supplies, or equipment may be stored in or around the magazines or day boxes. All explosives and caps must be stored in their original boxes and have a lid and label showing the code date of manufacture. E. ON SITE TRANSPORT OF EXPLOSIVES 1. Company vehicles will not be used to transport explosives on public highways. 14

18 2. Transport of explosives will only be done in vehicles designated for that purpose and such vehicles will be operated in a safe and orderly manner in accordance with all traffic laws. 3. Vehicles used for transporting explosives will be marked and operated in accordance with all local, state and federal regulations. 4. Powder and caps must not be transported by the same vehicle unless the following criteria is met: a. The powder and caps must be separated by 4" of hardwood, or the equivalent. b. Caps and boosters must be transported in a covered container, constructed of non-sparking material, and constructed in such a manner as to protect the contents of the container from an overhead blow. c. The transportation vehicle must have "DANGER - EXPLOSIVES" placards posted such that they are clearly visible from all 4 sides. d. Sides or enclosures on the vehicle will be higher than the explosive material, or the material will be secured on/in a non-conductive pallet. e. Explosives will be transported without undue delay and never left unattended. f. Smoking is not permitted while transporting, handling, or loading explosives, or within 50 feet of these activities. g. Radios shall be turned off within 100 feet of any un-shunted electric blasting cap. h. Where pneumatic charging devices are used, they shall be effectively grounded. All charging hoses are required to be semi-conductive. 5. Any person operating a vehicle transporting explosives must have a valid driver s license. 6. Vehicles transporting explosives shall not be overloaded and in no case shall the explosive containers be stacked higher than the bed sideboards. 7. All Company vehicles used for transporting explosives shall be inspected prior to use to determine that the brakes and steering mechanisms are in good order; the electric wiring is well insulated and firmly secured; the body and chassis are clean and free from accumulations of oil and grease; the fuel tank and feed line are secure and have no leaks; suitable fire extinguishers are in working order in easily accessible positions; and, in general, the vehicle is in proper condition for safe transportation of explosives. 8. The floor of these Company vehicles must be sound. Any exposed metal on the inside of the body that might come into contact with any package of explosives must be covered or protected with wood or other nonmetallic material. 15

19 9. Company vehicles transporting explosives shall be driven only by authorized persons not under the influence of intoxicants or narcotics. Motor vehicle shall not coast or free-wheel at any time. 10. Vehicles containing explosive material and oxidizers shall not be taken into a repair garage or shop. No welding or cutting shall be performed on a bulk delivery vehicle until the vehicle has been washed down, inspected, and all explosive material has been removed. Before welding or cutting on a hollow shaft, the shaft shall be thoroughly cleaned inside and out and vented with a minimum 1/2 inch diameter opening to allow for sufficient ventilation. 11. Passengers and unauthorized persons shall not ride on a vehicle transporting explosives. Smoking or the carrying of matches and smoker s articles shall not be permitted on or around a vehicle transporting explosives. 12. Vehicles transporting explosives shall not be left unattended at any time. 13. Packages or containers of explosives shall not be thrown or dropped while being loaded or unloaded or otherwise handled. They shall be carefully deposited and stored or placed in such form so as to prevent the packages or containers from sliding or falling or otherwise being displaced. 14. Two-way radios in vehicles shall not transmit while hauling, loading or unloading electric blasting caps. 15. Vehicles transporting explosives will proceed directly from their point of loading to the place of delivery and will not detour through any public place. 16. All explosive bulk deliveries must be weighed in and out using the plant s scales, where available. 17. When driving bulk charging trucks, platform lift trucks, or other vehicles up to blast faces containing charged holes or near charged bench-blast holes, the operator and crew shall take great care to ensure that no detonator tubes or wires are lying in positions where they can become snagged on the vehicle. F. ELECTRIC DETONATORS AND RF ENERGY HAZARDS To prevent radio-frequency transmitters from initiating electric detonators, observe the following precautions (see Appendix A for more information): 1. Keep mobile transmitters away from Blast Sites, storage magazines and day boxes or disconnect transmitters from the power supply. If this is not practical, turn them off and disconnect the microphone, or if that cannot be done, turn them off and block the push button on two-way radios. 2. Do not carry transmitters when handling explosives. Use Table 3 in Appendix A to determine safe distances from mobile transmitters and cell phones. Follow procedures in item 1 above for vehicle mounted transmitters. 16

20 3. Clear the Blast Area and implement blasting procedures before using transmitters to coordinate blasting operations. 4. When transporting electric detonators: a. Keep them in their original containers because the wires are coiled or folded to effectively guard against current induction. b. Use an IME-22 container since the barrier laminate construction includes a layer of steel or sheet metal to shield electric detonators from RF energy. (or) c. Transport electric detonators in a closed metal box that is lined with wood (MSHA requires detonators to be separated from explosives by 4 inches of hardwood or equivalent or a laminated partition as per IME-22 standards). 5. Avoid large loops in blasting wiring by running lead wires parallel to each other and close together. Keep wires on the ground in blasting layouts. Elevate bare connecting points slightly to prevent current leakage. Keep lead lines out of the beam of directional devices such as radar or microwave relay stations. 6. Cellular Telephones Keep cell phones at least 8 feet from a blasting circuit to prevent physical contact with detonator wires or the leads of a blasting circuit. Cover charging jacks or points to prevent direct contact with a detonator or blasting circuit. 7. Radar Do not use electric detonators at facilities located near airports or military installations using radar unless the potential hazard is investigated and experts agree that such use is safe. G. GENERAL HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES 1. At all times, explosives will be handled with care and respect. Dropping, sliding or any rough handling will be avoided. 2. Explosives will be handled in shipping containers as required by regulation. 3. At any one time, only sufficient amounts of explosive will be handled to meet the immediate requirements of the shot being charged. 4. Explosives will not be left unattended at any time. 5. Immediately after charging operations are concluded, all surplus explosives will be returned to the magazine. 6. No person within 50 feet of explosives will be permitted to smoke or carry smoking materials or flame producing devices. 7. Where Vulcan owns and stores explosives, only ATF designated responsible persons can sign for explosive purchases. 17

21 8. When contract blasting is performed, Vulcan employees are not permitted to handle explosives, detonators or boosters during the loading of a shot. Vulcan employees may assist with the stemming process under the supervision of the explosive blaster. H. QUALITY CONTROL 1. AGE As explosive performance deteriorates with age, the following practices will be followed: 2. DENSITY a. Detonators will be purchased and used from the same batch number when at all possible. The date code on detonator boxes will be spot checked by the Plant Superintendent or designee to ensure this practice is being enforced. b. Package explosives and boosters will be used within one year of manufacture. No explosives will be brought to the site that have exceeded these criteria. Upon request, or when a problem is perceived by the Superintendent or designee, the delivered or packaged density of a product will be checked to that of the manufacturer's data sheet by the supplier. The same applies during bulk loading. Deviations from the specification will require notification to Vulcan and corrective action by the supplier. 3. ANFO/FUEL OIL CONTENT Upon request, or when a problem is perceived by the Superintendent or designee, ANFO samples should be tested by the supplier to check fuel oil content. The sample should be 6% plus or minus 1/2% fuel oil. Deviations from the specification will require notification to Vulcan and corrective action by the supplier. 4. PRILL FRAGILITY Upon request, or when a problem is perceived by the Superintendent or designee, a sample of prills should be taken and sieved by the supplier. There should not be greater than 10% prills passing 20 mesh. Deviations from the specification will require notification to Vulcan and corrective action by the supplier. 5. DOT SENSITIVITY TESTS Upon request, the supplier will supply the results of periodic standard DOT sensitivity tests on blasting agents verifying that results are within DOT s acceptable limits. I. AUGERS, STORAGE, HANDLING & MIXING SYSTEMS 18

22 For VMC owned equipment, check augers for proper clearance and alignment. Check shafts and bearings for evidence of heat or binding. When performing these checks, ensure that the appropriate lockout/tagout procedures are in place. Access and clean out doors on augers must be locked or secured by the operator when the engine is running. VI. BLASTING The Drilling and Blasting Surface Blasting Checklist (FORM F) must be used with this section. It is recommended that plant management and blasters should meet on a regular basis to review blasting performance and identify areas for improvement. The Blasting Checklist (FORM F) and Audit Review should be part of this process. A. PRE-CHARGING SURVEY The following will be checked: 1. With the drill log, the blaster will verify that the actual pattern drilled conforms to that of the design on the shot diagram. 2. Check the blast area for extraneous electrical current if suspected. Such sources can be from pumps, electric pit equipment, or any other electrical source. Also, look for signs of an approaching electrical storm. 3. Check local weather reports for adverse weather conditions such as electrical storms or inversions. 4. Measure the depth of the holes, backfill to grade or redrill if necessary. 5. Note any comments on the drill log recording abnormal drilling conditions. From the top of bench, examine the blast area for weaknesses in the rock, such as clay pockets, joints, etc. Also check the blast area for any foreign matter, such as drill parts, which must be removed. From the pit floor, examine the face for signs of caves, joints, excessive backbreak, or overdigging. Abnormal conditions will require customized loading of hole(s) to ensure a safe blast. 6. Thoroughly examine the burden on every hole in the front row using an acceptable method, such as burden pole and tape or laser profiling, to determine where reduced explosive charges and additional stemming are necessary. 7. When more than one free face exists, examine all faces for items 4 and 5 above. 8. On completion of the pre-charging survey, a shot diagram will be prepared showing the charges to be used and the timing and connecting sequence and scale 19

23 distance of the blast. This will be reviewed at this operation by the blaster and Plant Superintendent or designee. 9. If conditions deviate from the drill log or shot design, no loading will commence until the Plant Superintendent or designee has reviewed the situation. 10. The shot design should be attached to the blasting report and become a permanent part of the blasting report files. 11. All shot designs will be within the Standard Blast Designs approved for use (see FORM A). Deviations from the Standard Blast Designs will require Area Manager notification and approval. B. CHARGING PROCEDURES 1. When explosive materials or initiation systems are brought to the blast site, the blast site shall be attended, barricaded and posted with warning signs such as Danger, Keep Out or flagged against unauthorized entry. 2. Before any charging work begins, the blaster-in-charge shall review the following with the blast charging crew: a. Site-specific safety hazards and concerns. b. Review personal safety responsibilities. c. Assign work responsibilities and review the blast charging plan. d. Review emergency and site security procedures. e. Confirm that the crew has proper tools and safety equipment. 3. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that all proper equipment and accessories necessary to safely charge the blast is available; including but not limited to powder punches, measuring tapes or poles, non-sparking weights, galvanometers, connecting wire, and tape. 4. Only clean stone will be used for stemming. Stemming will be placed at the blasting site before explosives are laid out. The size of stone used at this operation will be: 5. (The size of stemming material will be a minimum of 1/10 th of the blast hole diameter in inches.) 6. Check the weather and, if an electrical storm is threatening, delay loading until the hazard or potential hazard has passed and the Plant Superintendent and blaster in charge agrees that it is safe to proceed. 20

24 7. Charging will be carried out according to the shot diagram prepared in the pre-blast survey. No significant changes will be made without the approval of the Plant Superintendent or if absent, the designee. 8. Charging operations will be carried out in a sequence that will allow safe detonation of all charged holes if charging operations must be terminated before the whole round is charged. 9. Do not drive over loaded holes with any type of vehicle. 10. The loading of explosives into the hole will be measured continuously with a tape to ensure proper column rise and to avoid high concentrations of explosives in cavities. 11. When loading bulk materials, if a cavity is discovered or if explosives accumulate in a cavity, all operations will cease until the situation has been reviewed by the Plant Superintendent or if absent, the Area Manager. 12. In unconsolidated material, use the depth of planned stemming, plus 50% of the depth of loose material for stemming depth. In any case, the depth of stemming should not be less than the unconsolidated material. 13. Care will be taken that the correct stemming is maintained. If explosives are placed higher in the hole than planned, no stemming will be placed in that hole until the situation is reviewed by the Plant Superintendent or if absent, the Area Manager. 14. Blaster is responsible for directing stemming operations and ensuring that persons performing stemming have proper instructions and follow correct procedures. Document the task training on the appropriate MSHA Task Training Form. 15. Before the shot is detonated, setbacks will be placed to indicate the burden of the next shot. At this operation, will be used for setbacks. 16. In the event that special or extraordinary precautions are required to ensure that a blast can be carried out safely, the blast will not be detonated without the approval of at least the Area Manager. 17. All holes will be charged, empty containers removed, unused explosives and detonators accounted for and removed, spilled blasting agents cleaned up, and nonessential personnel cleared from the site before any surface initiator is attached to a down line. 18. After the surface connections are complete, the blaster in charge will perform a visual and physical check of the whole circuit to ensure that all holes are connected; that the correct delays and connections have been made; and that any delay elements are pointing in the right direction. When electric detonators are used, continuity and resistance tests of the detonators and/or blasting circuit shall be performed as required 21

25 by federal, state, and local regulations. Non electric systems shall be inspected and the connections taped, or otherwise effectively marked as inspected. 19. All surface delays and connectors, unless otherwise designed, will be covered to minimize noise and surface line cutoff. 20. The shot detonator will not be connected to the blast lead line until the working area is cleared and Blasting Procedures are in effect. 21. Except for testing, blasting line shall be kept shunted until immediately before blasting. The Blaster shall check this before charging begins. 22. Where electric caps are used, continuity testing of the total blasting circuit and detonator will not take place until the working area is clear and Blasting Procedures are in effect. 23. When the shot is charged, the blast site must be adequately guarded until the shot is detonated. 24. Only approved non- sparking powder punches will be used to install the cap in the primer stick. C. BLAST MONITORING: SEISMOGRAPHS 1 Seismograph reading(s) will be completed for every shot. All seismic monitoring performed for compliance purposes will be done by a third party consultant. The consultant should have technical support staff to include but not limited to: geophysicists, engineers, and seismologists. 10 years field monitoring experience is preferred. 2. The acceptable practices employed for seismograph utilization will conform to the standards outlined in the International Society of Explosive Engineers handbook under the section titled, Blast Vibrations and Seismograph Section Proposed Field Guidelines (Ref. ISEE Blaster s Handbook 1998 Appendix K pp ). 3. The monitoring locations for seismographs will be determined by considering the following criteria: a. Site-specific geologic characteristics and/or unique geologic structures. b. At neighboring structures as designated by VMC personnel such as the Plant Superintendent, Business Relations Manager, division technical staff or other designated personnel within the division. c. Following a complaint to determine validity. d. Following a significant change in a blast design parameter. e. Where mandatory based on local or state regulations. 22

26 4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: a. A blasting seismograph will be utilized to measure the seismic time histories produced by blasting activities. The seismograph utilized must be of a type/make and condition that fits the standards as outlined in the ISEE Blaster s handbook section entitled Blast Vibration and Seismograph Section. b. Safe limits for blasting must be in accord with local or state laws governing ground particle velocity and air overpressure levels. If local or state laws fail to address safe limits, the recommendations in the United States Bureau of Mines Report RI-8507 (1980) for ground particle velocity and the recommendations in the United States Bureau of Mines Report RI-8485 for air overpressure will be utilized. c. Monitoring will be accomplished with on-site portable and/or on/offsite permanent seismographs installed per ISEE recommended standards. d. The seismograph user must have the capability to verify the operational status of the instrument prior to any blast. The self-diagnostic check must provide the operator with the functionality of the three components of the ground sensor (longitudinal, vertical, and transverse) and an internal electronic calibration of the microphone. 1. For portable units, this will be done immediately preceding the blast and results noted on the vibration report. 2. For unmanned, permanently installed units, verifications should be performed weekly, or before a blast if shooting is less frequent. Verification of operational status can be, but is not limited to, personal visits by designated qualified personnel, or cellular or satellite modem, if the system is so equipped. 3. A log of the operational status and any corrective actions will be kept. 4. An annual shaketable calibration test will be performed and the calibration certificate will be provided to designated VMC personnel. e. Digital records of each seismic time history will be archived in accordance with Division Document Retention Policy and retained by the vibrationconsulting engineer. Non-trigger events will be noted and archived with the monitor log. 5. RECORDING THE MEASUREMENT a. Trigger levels for ground vibration and air over-pressure values will be as outlined in the ISEE Blast Vibration and Seismograph section, although prior 23

27 site vibration history may also be used to adjust trigger levels for seismographs if warranted. b. Recorded time histories shall be displayed in a format which includes, but is not limited to, the following: 1. Date/Time of event. 2. Summary of the vibration and air overpressure values. 3. USBM 8507 Vibration criteria for Particle Velocity (Particle Velocity versus Frequency). 4. Vibration Time histories in three components (longitudinal, vertical, and transverse). 5. Air overpressure time history. 6. Shaketable calibration date or calibration due date. 7. Recorded event data including client, location, distance, comments or event notes, coordinates, seismic and air-overpressure trigger levels, recording time, and serial number of the instrument. 6. REPORTING THE MEASUREMENT a. All permanently installed seismographs will have the capability to report recorded levels immediately following the blast. These recorded events will be summarized, collated, and reported monthly for VMC review. b. Each reported measurement will include: D. BLASTING PROCEDURES 1. The waveform of each seismic time history during the reporting period (i.e., one month). 2. A summary letter and summary table of matching event and shot numbers. 3. USBM RI 8507 Particle Velocity versus Frequency analysis. 4. A trend analysis for each site s vibration and air-overpressure history. 1. A blast will not be initiated prior to completion of all the following practices: a. The blaster and Superintendent or designee in charge has identified any potential areas that could be affected by the blast as determined by the Blast Design. 24