053-2 Wyo. Code R. § 56.6306 - Loading and blasting

(a) Vehicles and equipment shall not be driven over explosive material or initiating systems in a manner which could contact the material or system, or create other hazards.

(b) Once loading begins, the only activities permitted within the blast site shall be those activities directly related to the blasting operation and the activities of surveying, stemming, sampling of geology, and reopening of holes provided that reasonable care is exercised. Haulage activity is permitted near the base of the highwall being loaded provided no other haulage access exists.

(c) Loading shall be continuous except where adverse circumstances such as unfavorable atmospheric conditions, large equipment failure, or circumstances beyond the operator's control necessitate an interruption in loading.

(d) In electric blasting prior to connecting to the power source and in nonelectric blasting prior to attaching an initiating device, all persons shall leave the blast area except persons in a blasting shelter or other location that protects them from concussion (shock wave), flying material, and gases.

(e) When loading is completed and circuits are connected, the blasts shall be fired without undue delay unless adverse circumstances such as unfavorable atmospheric conditions, large equipment failure, or circumstances beyond the operator's control necessitate delay. If the time between the connection of circuits and the firing of the blast will exceed 72 hours, the operator shall notify the appropriate MSHA District Office and the State Mine Inspector before the 72 hours have elapsed.

(f) Before firing a blast-

(1) Ample warning shall be given to allow all persons to be evacuated;

(2) Clear exit routes shall be provided for persons firing the round; and

(3) All access routes to the blast area shall be guarded or barricaded to prevent the passage of persons or vehicles.

(g) No work shall resume in the blast area until a post-blast examination addressing potential blast-related hazards has been conducted by a person with the ability and experience to perform the examination.

Notes

053-2 Wyo. Code R. § 56.6306