Drilling & Blasting Guidance

This guidance has been produced by a working group of the Quarries National Joint Advisory Committee (QNJAC) which comprises of industry experts from varied backgrounds, the Institute of Quarrying and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The purpose of this document...

Relationship between impacts of geotechnical management, drilling and blasting in a quarry - Toolbox Talk A toolbox talk on information and engagement in relation to the impacts that geotechnical management, drilling and blasting have on one another in a quarry...

Guidance for Quarry Personnel on the Discovery of Misfired Explosives  Information on how to recognise misfired explosives discovered during the quarrying process and what steps to take.

Do not be a dummy with explosives - Toolbox Talk - Updated This toolbox talk provides a graphic demonstration of the potential impact of an accidental discharge when handling detonators or explosives. Short video clips using a mannequin leave little to the...

Post-Blast Fumes - Toolbox Talk - Updated Guidance on post-blast fumes and the steps to be taken to help reduce their production and avoid exposure to them. Target Audience - All those involved in the blasting operation – especially the post-blast inspection process.

Loading and Unloading of Drilling Rigs & Compressors - Toolbox Talk - Updated An illustrated toolbox talk produced by the QNJAC, addressing: competence; loading area; pre-loading checks; loading; unloading; example incident; key points.

Blast Site Edge Protection - Toolbox Talk Tool box talk produced by QNJAC members. Information on the use of edge protection systems in the blasting area The target audience is any person likely to be working in the blasting area and those supervising such operations.

Positioning a shotfiring shelter - Toolbox Talk - Updated Toolbox talk providing guidance on the correct location of shelters.

Defining the Danger Zone for Blasting Toolbox Talk - Updated Guidance on what to consider when determining the danger zone for quarry blasting. The target audience for this toolbox talk is shotfirers, explosives supervisors and quarry operators.

Thunderstorms – Risks and Actions Toolbox Talk - Updated Guidance on what steps to take if a thunderstorm approaches during the blasting process. Target Audience - Anybody involved in the blasting process.

The Post-Blast Inspection Toobox Talk - Updated Guidance on the post-blast inspection process Target Audience - Shotfirers and Explosive Supervisors.

Danger Zone Control and the Duties of Sentries - Updated Guidance on how to ensure control of the danger zone and what is expected from sentries.Target Audience -  Managers, Supervisors, Shotfirers, Sentries and Explosives Supervisors

Fires on Explosives Vehicles Guidance Guidance on what steps to take in the event of a fire on a vehicle that is either carrying explosives or materials used to make explosives. Target Audience - All those working on quarries or surface mines where explosives are used.

Drill Rig Maintenance and Safety Daily Checks Guidance Plant Safety Information Sheet 3 gives HSE-endorsed guidance on Drill Rig Maintenance and Safety checks. The book is intended to be placed in the cab and includes a list of daily checks, instructions on defect...