Safe handling and storage talk for explosive boosters

[Earthfinder]

As you go through a job plan, it becomes clear that storage practices differ quite a bit in the field. Rather than starting from scratch, let's discuss the standards, manufacturer recommendations, inspection protocols, and the essential compliance guidelines for safely conditioning and storing boosters. Feel free to share your own experiences, lessons learned, and the rules you adhere to.

 

[Orewhatnow]

In one of my jobs, we really had to rely on the manufacturer’s documentation and the site’s standard operating procedures after a close call raised some eyebrows. Since that incident, I’ve made it a point to focus on inspections, paperwork, and compliance checklists. It might seem dull, but it definitely helps keep everyone calm and employed.

 

[rockdrillpro]

I’ve come to realize that every site has its own way of doing things, so I always lean on the manufacturer’s guidance and stick to the strictest rules. When storage areas are clean, properly labeled, and well-documented, we usually don’t run into problems down the line.

 

[Zivon]

Early in my career, I witnessed the chaos that can ensue when storage standards are interpreted rather than followed. Since then, I’ve been all about inspections, maintaining clear separations, and sticking to the written rules. No shortcuts for me those always seem to come back and bite you.

 

[Goldshark]

The ATFE will dictate your compliance. MSHA is a whole other cluster f^#k. I had just been inspected by ATFE on a surface mine. I was told by them I was in compliance. I had signs posted "Never fight explosives fires", my phone #, daily summaries, and all the other stuff necessary. The ATFE told me the signs weren't necessary because people have a tendency to shoot bullet holes in them, so remove them. No ATFE violations.
Now along comes MSHA. The inspectors are like "where is your fire extinguisher next to your magazines, and you need a grounding strap from the door to the main box which needs a grounding rod"? I told them the ATFE asked me to remove the signs, and the IME (Institute of Makers of Explosives) states "If a metal box is contacting the ground, no grounding rod is needed." The only time you need a grounding rod, is when the steel mag is off the ground, supported by non conductive materials. The only time you need a strap from door to frame, is on such as a type 1 mag built from cinder blocks, or other allowable construction. Then you need a grounding rod from frame to ground, in addition to the strap from door to frame.
For those of you who know how MSHA works, it is a giant C.F! I didn't want to spend another minute with those A-holes discussing safe practices. I have been blasting longer than those A-holes have been alive. With out 1 incident! I paid their fine, rather then contesting it, grabbed my drill and equipment, and left that job. 1 more time, ATFE is great to work with, These MSHA inspectors are the worst A-holes in the world. They are not necessarily making a mine site safer, they are figuring ways to fund themselves.