Drilling establishes engineered openings in rock, and controlled blasting fragments material so it can be excavated and transported. The objective is not simply to break rock but to produce the required excavation shape and fragment distribution with manageable damage to surrounding ground. A complete evaluation considers drilling accuracy, explosive consumption, mucking productivity, dilution, ground support, and downstream crushing performance. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
A conventional cycle begins with survey and face inspection, followed by drilling, hole verification, charging, evacuation, firing, ventilation, inspection, and muck removal. Underground headings also require scaling and installation of ground support before the next cycle proceeds. Cycle efficiency depends on coordination between drilling crews, licensed blasting personnel, ventilation teams, surveyors, and haulage operators. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blast patterns are engineered around excavation geometry, rock strength, discontinuities, and the intended fragmentation. The design specifies hole positions, orientations, depths, and functional groups such as relief and perimeter holes. Geological mapping and measurements from earlier rounds help engineers adjust designs when jointing, alteration, or confinement changes. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Burden describes the distance from a charged hole to the available free face or relief, while spacing describes separation between adjacent holes. Both influence how effectively explosive energy fractures and displaces the rock. Excessive confinement can leave unbroken material, whereas unsuitable geometry can increase unwanted breakage and damage. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Drilled holes must follow the approved positions, directions, and depths because deviations alter the distribution of explosive energy. Inaccurate drilling can cause poor breakage, overbreak, irregular floors, or damage near a final excavation boundary. Survey checks, rig alignment, calibrated controls, and recorded drilling actuals support consistent execution and design reconciliation. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Development blasting advances tunnels, declines, and crosscuts while preserving an engineered excavation profile. Production blasting breaks larger ore volumes in stopes, benches, or rings, usually with different hole lengths and free-face arrangements. The choice affects drill type, firing sequence, ventilation planning, muck handling, and the level of perimeter control required. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Rock strength, bedding, faults, joint orientation, and in situ stress affect fracture propagation and movement during blasting. A pattern that performs well in massive competent rock may produce different results in fractured or altered zones. Geotechnical observations should therefore be linked to blast records, excavation damage, fragmentation, and achieved advance. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Controlled blasting aims to limit damage outside the planned excavation boundary by managing energy near the final wall or roof. It is particularly important around permanent underground openings, sensitive structures, and final pit walls. Engineering teams assess the achieved profile and rock condition rather than judging success by tonnage broken alone. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Fragmentation determines how readily blasted rock can be loaded, hauled, crushed, and processed. Excessive oversize causes secondary breakage and equipment delays, while unnecessary fines can affect handling and processing. Blast performance should be measured through a mine-to-mill perspective that considers both excavation efficiency and downstream costs. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blast sequencing governs how successive portions of the rock mass gain relief and move during firing. It influences fragmentation, displacement, vibration, and the interaction of charges within the blast. Timing choices must be developed by competent specialists using approved systems, documented design rules, and site-specific constraints. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Overbreak occurs when excavation extends beyond the intended design boundary, potentially increasing support needs and dilution. It may result from geology, drilling deviation, blast energy distribution, or weak perimeter control. Surveyed profiles, laser scans, geotechnical mapping, and blast records help distinguish geological causes from execution problems. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blasting can move ore and waste across planned boundaries, influencing the grade and quantity of material recovered. Poorly controlled breakage may incorporate unwanted rock or leave valuable mineral behind. Reconciliation should compare geological models, surveyed excavations, material destinations, and actual recovery rather than relying solely on theoretical blast volumes. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blasting generates seismic waves as explosive energy acts on the surrounding rock. Measured vibration depends on geology, distance, confinement, and the characteristics of the blast design. Where nearby infrastructure or communities could be affected, mines use appropriate monitoring, engineering limits, and documented response procedures. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Performance indicators include achieved advance, drilling deviation, fragmentation, excavation profile, misfire frequency, and time spent in each operating stage. These measures reveal whether the design was implemented and whether it delivered the intended result. Teams should compare outcomes with baseline conditions and use deviations to refine future engineering decisions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Planning reduces total cost when it aligns drilling effort and blast results with excavation, ground support, haulage, and processing requirements. The cheapest individual blast is not necessarily the most economical operation. Integrated planning weighs equipment availability, material movement, geological uncertainty, and safety controls before approving changes. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
You as the operator of a large mine know best how difficult and stressful it can be to precisely locate your entire workforce in time with the blast schedule. Harsh environments like mines are places where safety matters most. Blocked tunnels, disrupted communication lines and blackouts will make an evacuation a chaotic nightmare even for a well-trained team. Locating employees in a timely manner is crucial.
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Face drilling jumbos use one or more articulated booms to drill the pattern required for a tunnel or mining heading. Modern machines may combine computerized positioning, electronic drill plans, and automated functions. Equipment selection depends on tunnel dimensions, maneuvering space, rock conditions, utility supply, and the required advance. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Longhole rigs drill arrays of holes from prepared underground drives into the planned production volume. Accurate alignment and hole trajectory are important because deviations can influence recovery, dilution, and stope stability. Rig control and automated drilling features can improve consistency while allowing operators to work farther from hazardous areas. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Top-hammer systems transmit impact energy through a drill string from a hammer near the feed, whereas down-the-hole systems place the impact mechanism near the bit. Their performance differs with hole diameter, depth, ground conditions, and equipment configuration. Selection should consider straightness, penetration, consumable wear, air requirements, and whole-life operating cost. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Automated drilling functions can manage hole positioning, alignment, drilling parameters, and repetitive sequences according to an approved plan. They reduce some manual variation and create records that can be reviewed against the design. Automation still requires competent oversight, maintained sensors, calibration, and procedures for geological or equipment exceptions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Digital planning systems translate the blast design into machine-readable hole geometry and instructions. Survey references and rig navigation allow the operator to align the plan with the actual working face. Version control and verification are critical because an outdated plan or incorrect reference point can affect every drilled hole. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Electronic detonators use programmable timing and diagnostic capabilities to support repeatable initiation sequences. Their precision can help engineers manage complex blast designs and compare planned firing characteristics with results. Their use remains subject to approved procedures, system compatibility, training, and strict control of firing authority. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Non-electric systems transmit initiation signals through shock tubes rather than relying on an electrical firing circuit. Electronic systems instead provide programmable timing and often additional diagnostics. Selection considers application complexity, electrical hazards, regulatory requirements, operational reliability, and available competence. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Wireless initiation removes some physical connections between individual charges and the initiation system. In suitable mining applications it can support different charging sequences and reduce exposure associated with installing or maintaining wired connections. Implementation demands detailed compatibility assessment, formal procedures, reliable communications, and management of abnormal conditions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Remote initiation systems allow authorized blasting personnel to control firing from a designated location away from the immediate blast area. Centralized interfaces can improve coordination across multiple underground headings. Remote firing never removes the need for positive personnel clearance, secure exclusion zones, and post-blast examination. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blast design software models excavation geometry, drill holes, loading arrangements, and initiation sequences before field execution. It supports visualization, consistency checks, and comparison of alternative engineering designs. Software results must be validated against geological conditions and actual drilling data rather than accepted without professional review. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Digital platforms collect planned and actual drilling information, charging records, exceptions, and post-blast observations. A shared record helps identify discrepancies before firing and supports structured performance review afterward. Reliable workflows depend on data quality, permissions, connectivity, and disciplined field verification. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Image-based or other measurement tools estimate the distribution of rock fragment sizes after blasting. Repeated observations help relate design changes to mucking and processing outcomes. Measurements should use representative sampling and account for obscured material, lighting, and differences between surface and underground conditions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Personnel tracking systems can show which mine zones contain workers and whether assigned crews have moved to designated safe areas. This visibility helps controllers identify unresolved clearances before a planned blast. The system must distinguish recent confirmed detections from stale or inferred positions and must complement formal clearance procedures. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Underground communication networks connect blast controllers, supervisors, sentries, and operating crews through voice and data services. They can carry warnings, acknowledgments, occupancy information, and access restrictions. Coverage gaps, power loss, or damaged infrastructure require defined fallback procedures and conservative clearance decisions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Location information identifies occupied zones and supports coordination of restricted access, while ventilation instruments measure atmospheric recovery after firing. Together they can improve visibility of work readiness without substituting for competent inspection. Re-entry must still follow approved gas testing, airflow verification, ground examination, and formal authorization. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Maintain visibility of all your staff members at all times during operations. Built according to strict industry guidelines and drawing on best practices, Crew Companion enables effective and reliable operations without needing any human interaction in day-to-day situations, as well as emergencies.
Crew Companion by Identec Solutions
Major hazards include accidental initiation, flyrock, fumes, misfires, unstable ground, noise, dust, and mobile equipment interactions. The consequences can extend beyond the immediate blast area through connected workings or access routes. A risk assessment must integrate blast engineering with personnel accountability, ventilation, emergency response, and site-specific rules. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Explosives must be handled by personnel with the qualifications, training, and authorization required by the relevant jurisdiction and mine procedures. Responsibilities for storage, charging, initiation, supervision, and inspection should be explicit. Written appointments, competency assessments, and clear handovers help prevent confusion over who may make critical decisions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Underground explosives transport requires approved vehicles or containers, secure handling, separation where required, and routes suitable for the material. Operators must control ignition sources and unauthorized access. Transport plans should consider congestion, communications, emergency arrangements, and compatibility with local explosives regulations. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Explosives storage requires authorized magazines, inventory control, security, suitable environmental conditions, and segregation according to applicable rules. Access must be restricted to competent designated personnel. Routine inspections and accurate issue-and-return records help identify deterioration, discrepancies, and unsafe conditions early. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Charging must follow the approved blast plan and be performed by authorized workers using suitable equipment and compatible products. Crews verify hole conditions and manage changes through a defined authorization process. Charging areas require access control, communication, and protection against unintended energy sources or equipment interference. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Premature initiation can result from inappropriate equipment, stray electrical energy, procedural failures, or incompatible components. Mines apply system-specific controls, approved testing, separation, and trained supervision. No single initiation technology removes every hazard, so procedures must reflect the equipment and local operating conditions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
The blast exclusion zone must cover areas potentially affected by rock movement, pressure, fumes, or other blast hazards. Boundaries are determined through site-specific engineering and documented in the firing procedure. Barriers, sentries, warnings, and positive clearance confirmation prevent unauthorized entry before firing. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blast clearance combines defined exclusion boundaries, personnel accounting, warning communications, and confirmation by the authorized responsible person. Electronic tracking can help identify people remaining in or near affected zones. Unknown identities, missed detections, or contradictory reports must be resolved rather than interpreted as proof of clearance. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
The responsible blaster must verify that the firing procedure, communications, exclusion controls, and required personnel clearances have been completed. Firing authority should not be transferred informally or assumed from a schedule. A documented stop-work process is necessary whenever conditions differ from the approved plan or communications fail. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Re-entry depends on completion of required waiting, ventilation, atmospheric testing, and competent inspection. Blasting fumes and loose ground can remain hazardous even when the initial explosion has ended. The affected area stays restricted until the authorized person confirms that applicable conditions have been met and communicates the all-clear. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
A suspected misfire must be treated as a potentially live explosive hazard and the affected area secured immediately. Only qualified personnel following the mine-specific approved procedure may investigate or manage it. Workers must not improvise recovery methods or resume normal excavation until the condition has been formally resolved. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blasting can generate carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, dust, and other harmful contaminants that travel through connected workings. Ventilation design, airflow verification, and appropriate gas testing are central controls. Personnel should not infer safety from elapsed time alone, because actual clearance depends on the ventilation network and local conditions. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Blasting can loosen rock around a face, roof, or wall and change the stability of nearby ground. Authorized inspection, scaling, ground support, and controlled access are necessary before routine work resumes. Face observations should inform future blast designs and geotechnical controls, especially where excavation damage repeatedly occurs. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Emergency planning addresses missing personnel, unexpected initiation, misfires, ventilation failure, blocked routes, and loss of communications. Training should define responsibilities, muster points, reporting arrangements, and safe refuge options. Exercises should test both manual headcounts and electronic tracking so failures or data gaps do not undermine response. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Post-blast reviews compare actual results with the approved plan and examine deviations, near misses, delays, atmospheric conditions, and ground damage. The objective is to identify recurring weaknesses before they lead to incidents. Actions should have named owners, verification dates, and feedback to training, engineering standards, and subsequent blast plans. The approved site procedure remains the controlling document, and changes should be reviewed by competent personnel before work proceeds. Records of actual conditions are valuable because geological variability and changing mine geometry can make an otherwise familiar method perform differently from one location to another. Good practice includes defining measurable acceptance criteria, documenting exceptions, and reviewing the results with the people responsible for planning and execution. This creates a practical feedback loop rather than relying on assumptions or production targets alone. ref
Where difficult conditions exist and your nearest exit is kilometres away, Crew Companion is the answer for the safety of your staff: a scalable and customisable personnel monitoring solution specifically designed to meet your organisation’s safety needs in the mining industry. Ensure your underground and open-pit operations are visible and therefore manageable – all in line with the most advanced HSE and business requirements.
Crew Companion by Identec Solutions
Mining Industry:
Underground Mining | Surface and Open-Pit Mining | Hard-Rock Mining | Coal Mining | Metal and Non-Metal Mining | The Mining Lifecycle | Mining Companies and Stakeholders | Mining Jobs and Roles | Digital Mining and Mine Automation | Sustainable and Responsible Mining
Production Process:
Mineral Exploration and Resource Definition | Mine Planning and Design | Underground Mine Development | Drilling and Blasting | Underground Mining Methods | Loading, Hauling and Transportation | Material Handling and Conveying | Crushing, Grinding and Mineral Processing | Waste Rock and Tailings Management | Mine Closure and Rehabilitation
Safety:
Mine Safety Management | Workforce Accountability | Underground Access and Qualification Control | Emergency Preparedness and Response | Mine Evacuation and Mustering | Mine Rescue Operations | Blast Clearance and Re-Entry | Vehicle Collision Avoidance | Ventilation and Gas Monitoring | Ground Control and Rock-Fall Prevention
Geographical Areas and Regions:
Mining in Australia | Mining in Canada | Mining in Sweden and the Nordic Region | Mining in Chile | Mining in Peru and the Andes | Mining in Southern Africa | Mining in the United States | Mining in Central and Western Europe | Mining in West Africa | Mining in Arctic and High-Altitude Regions
Mining Equipment and Technology:
Drilling Rigs and Mining Jumbos | Load–Haul–Dump Machines | Underground and Surface Haul Trucks | Continuous Miners and Roadheaders | Crushers, Conveyors and Hoisting Systems | Mine Ventilation and Dewatering Equipment | Personal Protective and Self-Rescue Equipment | Underground Communication Networks | Personnel Positioning and Proximity Detection | Autonomous and Remote-Controlled Mining Equipment | Underground Network