Surface Mine Blasting Safety Inspection Checklist
This checklist ensures surface mine blasting operations comply with MSHA 30 CFR Part 56 (Surface Metal/Nonmetal Mines) explosives standards and ATF 27 CFR Part 555 federal explosives regulations. Designed for certified blasters and mine safety officers.
- Industry: Mining / Quarrying
- Frequency: Each blast event
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: Certified Blaster / Mine Safety Officer
- Total Items: 24
- Compliance: MSHA 30 CFR Part 56 Subpart N Explosives, ATF 27 CFR Part 555 Commerce in Explosives, ISEE Institute of Makers of Explosives Safety Library, State Blaster Certification and Explosives Regulations
Pre-Blast Area Inspection
Blast area inspection before loading begins.
- Blast area inspected for unexploded charges from previous blasts?
- No hazardous gas concentrations in blast area (methane, H2S)?
- Drill holes inspected and free of water, caving, or obstructions?
- Underground utilities, cables, or pipelines identified and protected?
Explosives and Detonator Handling
Explosives storage, transportation, and loading compliance.
- Explosives transported from magazine in licensed blasting vehicle?
- Detonators and explosives compatible and not mixed in transport?
- Only quantity needed for immediate use brought to blast site?
- SDS for all explosives materials accessible at blast site?
Blasting Circuit and Connections
Blasting circuit continuity and connection checks.
- All connections inspected before blast initiation?
- Blasting circuit continuity tested with approved blasting galvanometer?
- Firing device approved for use with detonators loaded?
- Blasting wire / lead line adequate length to reach safe firing location?
Blast Area Clearance and Warning
Pre-blast warning and area clearance.
- Exclusion zone established and confirmed per flyrock risk assessment?
- All persons accounted for and outside exclusion zone?
- Warning signals sounded per pre-established blast signal system?
- Adjacent mine operations and public roads notified of blast?
Post-Blast Inspection
Post-blast misfire check and re-entry.
- Blast fumes and smoke cleared before re-entry (minimum 30 minutes)?
- Certified blaster first person to enter blast area?
- Blast area inspected for misfires - all holes accounted for?
- Blast walls inspected for unstable or dangerous highwall conditions?
- Blast report completed and filed per MSHA requirements?
Explosives Accounting
Explosives inventory and return to magazine.
- All unused explosives and detonators returned to magazine and logged?
- No explosives or detonators abandoned at blast site?
- Blast observations and any anomalies
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Why Use This Surface Mine Blasting Safety Inspection Checklist?
This surface mine blasting safety inspection checklist helps mining / quarrying teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for certified blaster / mine safety officer professionals, this checklist covers 24 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: each blast event.
Ensures compliance with MSHA 30 CFR Part 56 Subpart N Explosives, ATF 27 CFR Part 555 Commerce in Explosives, ISEE Institute of Makers of Explosives Safety Library, State Blaster Certification and Explosives Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Surface Mine Blasting Safety Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 24 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Blast Area Inspection, Explosives and Detonator Handling, Blasting Circuit and Connections, Blast Area Clearance and Warning, Post-Blast Inspection, Explosives Accounting. It is designed for mining / quarrying operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed each blast event. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Surface Mine Blasting Safety Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Certified Blaster / Mine Safety Officer professionals in the mining / quarrying industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.