PROCEDURES FOR BLASTING

GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING MANUAL

GEM-22
Revision #4

AUGUST 2015
 GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING MANUAL:
PROCEDURE FOR BLASTING

GEM-22
Revision #4

STATE OF NEW YORK

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING BUREAU

AUGUST 2015

EB 15-025 Page 1 of 17
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................3

A. Purpose ............................................................................................................................3
B. General ............................................................................................................................3
C. Definitions .......................................................................................................................6

2. PROCEDURES FOR BLASTING WITHIN NYSDOT ROW .................................................14

A. Submittal of Written Blast Plan ....................................................................................14

B. Scheduling Preblast Meetings .......................................................................................15
C. Conducting Preblast Meetings ......................................................................................15
D. Inspection and Documentation ......................................................................................16
E. Test Blasts .....................................................................................................................16
F. Blasting Progress Meetings ...........................................................................................16
G. Blasting Review ............................................................................................................16

APPENDICES ...............................................................................................................................17

A. Preblast Meeting Itinerary .......................................................................................... A-1

B. General Guidelines for Project Inspectors ...................................................................B-1
C. Blasting Report Form SM 469 (US Customary Units) ...............................................C-1
Blasting Report Form SM 469 (International System of Units) .................................C-2
D. Instructions for Filling out the Blasting Report Form ................................................ D-1
E. Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations ................................................ E-1
F. Geologic Evaluation of Test Section ........................................................................... F-1

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1. INTRODUCTION

A. Purpose
This document specifies the procedure that shall be followed when a Contractor or Permittee is
proposing to blast. By following this procedure, the Engineer-In-Charge or the Permit Engineer
can help ensure that the Contractor accomplishes the work in a safe and effective manner.
Engineering Geologists from the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau are trained and experienced
in blasting safety and blasting techniques, and are available to provide assistance during all
phases of the blasting operations. Prior to blasting the Contractor shall submit a written blast plan
to the Engineer for conditional approval. The Engineer will forward the blast plan to the
Engineering Geology Section, Geotechnical Engineering Bureau for review and written
comment. After approval of the blast plan, a preblast meeting will be held which shall be
attended by the Engineer, the Contractor, the Project Blaster(s), an Engineering Geologist from
the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau, and representatives of all interested Agencies to discuss
the proposed blasting operations. Final approval to blast will be granted based upon the results of
the meeting. Test blasts may be required and may result in modifications to the blast plan. All
blasts on Department contracts will be documented by the Engineer using the Blasting Report
Form SM 469 US Customary Units (GE 469 International System of Units) (See Appendix C).

B. General
Presplit blasting is required on State ROW when the design rock slope is one vertical on one
horizontal or steeper and the vertical height of the exposed rock slope exceeds 5 ft. (1.5 m). The
contract documents may also specify blasting. The Contractor may choose to use production
blasting in conjunction with required presplit blasting or for general rock excavation. The
Contractor may also elect to use blasting for trenching operations, structure excavations, and
structure demolitions. Permit jobs that involve blasting on State ROW are subject to the same
requirements as Department-let contracts. If the Permit Engineer is concerned or uncertain about
the effects of blasting adjacent to State ROW, the Engineering Geology Section should be
contacted for advice.

Blasters in New York State are required to posses a valid New York State Department of Labor
(NYSDOL) issued Blaster Certificate of Competence. The Blaster Certificate of Competence
permits the use of explosives specific to the following blasting operations. These are classified
as follows: A Class A (Above\Below Ground) Certificate or Class B (Aboveground) Certificate
is required for rock blasting. A Class D (Demolition) Certificate is required for demolition of
bridge superstructures or substructures. A Class E (Seismic) Certificate is required for seismic
surveys. In conjunction with a Blaster Certificate of Competence an Explosives License is also
needed for the licensee to purchase, own, posses or transport explosives.

The blaster will conduct all blasting operations in a skillful manner so as not to cause injury,
damage property, adversely affect traffic, or cause the migration/accumulation of noxious gases.
Blasting activities can have negative consequences which include the following:

1. Flyrock
Flyrock can cause serious injury or damage when it travels outside the blast zone. Flyrock
can be caused by: improper blast design; improper or insufficient stemming;

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 unanticipated geologic features such as voids, soft seams, and other planes of
weaknesses; borehole deviation; insufficient burden; and poorly distributed explosives.

The Blaster should inspect any free rock faces for irregularities and geologic conditions
that may affect the blast and adjust the drill hole locations accordingly. Profiling the rock
face using simple measuring tapes, conventional surveying techniques, or more advanced
laser profiling may be warranted. Driller’s notes and logs should be kept and used by the
Blaster to make adjustments to explosives loading to account for geologic conditions and
borehole deviation. The use of Borehole Deviation Surveys may be feasible to determine
boreholes that have wandered too close to each other or too close to the rock face.
Monitoring of drilling operations will also provide feedback to the drillers so that they
may make adjustments to their methods.

Flyrock can also be controlled by using blasting mats or soil cover to retain the exploded
rock. It’s important that the Blaster make sure that all personnel are outside the blasting
area where fly rock can be expected.

2. Vibrations
Blasting generated vibrations can damage underground and aboveground structures.
When the Contractor is using a seismograph to monitor vibrations on State ROW, the
Standard Specifications (§203-3.02.A.3.) provides the maximum particle velocity unless
directed otherwise by the Engineer or the Contract Documents. In the absence of seismic
monitoring equipment, the explosives loading limits shall be based upon the scaled
distance formula in the Standard Specifications. In certain circumstances, NYSDOT
contract documents may also require monitoring of adjacent structures that are off the
State ROW. NYSDOL regulations (12 NYCRR 61) restrict vibration levels at buildings
in the vicinity of blasting operations based upon distance or vibration frequency. Even
when vibrations are not at a level sufficient to cause damage, they can disturb individuals
and result in complaints. Proper placement and operation of the seismograph is critical for
obtaining accurate readings. Vibrations can be controlled by modifying the weight of
explosives per delay, the loading density, and the delay pattern. A preblast condition
survey of a structure may be required prior to blasting.

3. Displacement of Bedrock
Blasting, primarily trench and ditch blasting, can displace rock and damage adjacent
pavement and underground utilities.

4. Noxious Fumes
Blasting generates carbon monoxide and other noxious fumes. The fumes generated
during blasting operations, especially during trenching operations, can migrate and collect
in excavations, manholes and D.I.’s, and nearby buildings. The build up of significant
concentrations of gases can occur 12 hours or more after the blast. All blasting shall be
conducted so that the noxious gases generated by the blast do not affect the health and
safety of individuals.

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 When site conditions and blasting procedures indicate that there is the potential for the
migration and accumulation of gases, the Contractor should specify information
collection activities, modification of blasting procedures, and an action plan in the event
of a high reading or alarm. Such site conditions could include but are not limited to: open
jointed bedrock (i.e. karstic limestone); an impermeable soil layer overlying the bedrock
(i.e. clay or saturated soil); and proximity to buildings. Blasting procedures that may
increase the risk include confined (i.e. trenching), large, and frequent blasts. Information
collection activities should include preblast surveys of all buildings within a minimum of
300 ft. (100 m) of the blast, which would identify potential sources of entry and potential
pathways to the buildings such as buried utility trenches. Information collection activities
should also include monitoring of carbon monoxide levels before, during, and after the
blast. Modification of blasting procedures should include limiting the size and frequency
of blasts to limit the production of noxious fumes, and stripping of the overburden prior
to blasting and excavating the shot rock immediately after blasting to allow the venting of
gases. The use of vent holes or vent pits may also be necessary. The action plan should
cover both building occupants and monitoring personnel.

5. Airblast Overpressure
Although unusual, blasting generated air waves can reach a level where they can damage
buildings. NYSDOL (12 NYCRR 61) specifies limits for airblast levels at buildings in
the vicinity of blasting operations. Air waves not at a level sufficient to cause damage
can disturb individuals, resulting in complaints. Factors that affect air blast overpressure
include topography, blast design, and atmospheric conditions. Blasts may have to be
redesigned or rescheduled for more favorable atmospheric conditions to minimize air
waves.

6. Misfires
Misfires happen when a loaded hole, portion of a loaded hole, or several loaded holes fail
to detonate during a blast. Misfires can be caused by failure of the detonation system or
by explosive column cutoffs. Sometimes it is apparent immediately after a blast that a
misfire has occurred. Other times it’s not discovered until the blasted rock is being
excavated and unexploded explosives are discovered within the shot rock pile. The
Blaster-in-Charge is responsible for checking the shot immediately after the blast for
misfired holes and, if discovered, re-detonating the loaded holes. If re-firing a misfired
hole presents a hazard, the explosive may be removed by washing out with water or, if
underwater, blown out with air. No drilling or digging shall be permitted until all missed
holes have been addressed. When unexploded explosives are discovered mixed in with
the shot rock, excavation will cease until a Project Blaster is notified and he is able to
supervise the continued rock excavation and proper disposal of the unexploded
explosives. All personnel involved with excavating shot rock should be vigilant for the
presence of unexploded explosives.

Each Certified Blaster is required to report to the NYSDOL any unusual incident or event that
occurs during the blasting operations. They are also required to report any instances of premature
detonation, damage from air blast, damage from excessive ground vibration, or instances of fly
rock. Damage must be reported even when it is alleged and/or the complaint is made after a

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substantial lapse of time.

C. Definitions

Airblast - The airborne shock wave generated by an explosion.

ANFO – A blasting agent composed primarily of ammonium nitrate and fuel oil.

Authorized Blasting Assistant – An individual who has been authorized by the certified blaster-
in-charge to work on a blasting operation after such blaster-in-charge has confirmed that the
individual is either a certified blaster, or otherwise meets the following qualifications:
(1) Is at least eighteen years old;
(2) Has been properly trained in the performance of the tasks to be assigned; and
(3) Has been made aware of and understands the blasting hazards and risks.

Backbreak – Rock broken beyond the limits of the last row of holes in a blast, synonymous with
overbreak.

Base Charge – The main explosive charge in the base of a detonator or a heavy charge at the
base of a column of presplit powder.

Battered Production Holes – The row of production holes closest to presplit line, drilled at the
same angle as the presplit holes.

Bench – A horizontal ledge from which holes are drilled downward into the material to be
blasted.

Binary Explosive – A blasting explosive formed by the mixing of two plosophoric materials, for
example, ammonium nitrate and nitromethane.

Blast Pattern – The plan view of the drill holes as laid out for blasting.

Blast Plan – A written procedure that details the methods and manner by which a Project blaster
will comply with pertinent laws, rules, regulations, and contract documents. The plan shall
include all information, as detailed in Section 2A, necessary to evaluate the effectiveness and
safety of the proposed blasting operations. Individual blasts on a project are rarely identical. The
plan should show the details for a typical blast with the understanding that minor modifications
in the field will be allowed. Significant changes to the blasting operations will require that a new
blast plan be submitted for approval. When deemed necessary by the Engineer, approved blast
plans will be required for each individual shot.

Blaster-in-Charge – The Project Blaster in charge of a specific blast. Responsibilities include

delivery of explosives, storage, loading, and detonation of the blast. A project may have several
Project Blasters, but only one blaster is in charge of each blast.

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Blasting Agent – An explosive material, consisting of fuel and oxidizer that can’t be detonated
with only a No. 8 blasting cap.

Blast Area – An area near any blasting operation in which concussion, flying material or debris,
or gases resulting from a detonation of explosives can reasonably be expected to cause injury or
property damage.

Blasting Galvanometer – An electrical resistance instrument designed specifically for testing

electrical continuity of electric detonators and circuits containing them. Other acceptable
instruments for this purpose are Blasting Ohmmeters and Blaster’s Multimeters.

Blasting Mat – A Mat of woven steel wire, scrap tires, or other suitable material to cover
blastholes for the purpose of preventing flyrock.

Blasting Site – The specific place defined by the Blaster-in-Charge where explosives are used in
blasting operations. A blast site is part of the blast area.

Blasting Superintendent – The Contractor may use a Blasting Superintendant to provide

general oversight for drilling and blasting operations. However, the Blaster-in-Charge is
responsible for each blast.

Blasting Vibrations – The energy from a blast that manifests itself in the form of vibrations
which are transmitted through the earth away from the immediate blast area.

Booster – An explosive charge, usually of high detonation velocity and detonation pressure,
designed to be used in the explosive initiation sequence between an initiator or primer and the
main charge.

Bulk Strength – The strength per unit volume of an explosive calculated from its weight
strength and density.

Burden – The distance from the borehole to the nearest free face or the distance between
boreholes measured perpendicular to the spacing.

Certified Blaster – An individual who has been issued a “Blaster Certificate of Competence” by
the NYSDOL for using explosives.

Collar – The mouth or opening of a borehole.

Column Charge – A long, continuous, unbroken column of explosives in a blasthole.

Continuity Check (Circuit) – A determination that an initiation system is continuous and

contains no breaks or improper connections that could cause stoppage or failure of an ignition
system. For an electric initiation system, the check is performed both visually and by using a
blasting galvanometer or other device. For a non-electric initiation system, the check can only be
done visually.

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Deck Loading (Decking) – A method of loading blastholes in which the explosive charges,
called decks or deck charges, in the same hole are separated by stemming or an air cushion. The
separate decks may or may not be fired on the same delay.

Deflagration – An explosive reaction such as a rapid combustion that moves through an

explosive material at a velocity less than the speed of sound in the material.

Delay Blasting – The practice of initiating individual explosive decks, boreholes, or rows of
boreholes at predetermined time intervals using delay detonators, or other delaying methods, as
compared to instantaneous blasting where all holes are fired essentially at the same time.

Delay Detonator – An electric or nonelectric detonator used to introduce a predetermined lapse

of time between the application of a firing signal and the detonation of a charge.

Departmental Engineering Geologist – An Engineering Geologist of the Geotechnical

Engineering Bureau authorized by the Director of the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau to
perform the duties required under the NYS DOT Standard Specifications. Engineering
Geologists are trained and experienced in blasting safety and blasting techniques, and are
available to provide assistance during all phases of the blasting operations.

Design Rock Slope – A cut slope in rock constructed at the angle and location specified in the
contract plans. Presplit blasting is usually used to construct the slope so that the finished slope is
stable and free from significant rock hazards.

Detonating Cord – A flexible cord containing a center core of high explosives which may be
used to initiate other high explosives.

Detonating Cord Trunkline – The line of detonating cord that is used to connect and initiate
other lines of detonating cord.

Detonation – An explosive reaction that moves through an explosive material at a velocity

greater than the speed of sound in the material.

Detonator – Any device containing an initiating or primary explosive that is used for initiating
detonation in another explosive material.

Drilling Pattern – The location of blast holes in relation to each other and the free face.

Dynamite – A high explosive used for blasting, consisting essentially of a mixture of, but not
limited to nitroglycerin, nitrocellulose, ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, and carbonaceous
materials.

Electric Blasting Circuit – An electric circuit containing electric detonators and associated
wiring.

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Electric Detonators – A detonator designed for, and capable of, initiation by means of an
electric current.

Emulsion – An explosive material containing substantial amounts of oxidizer dissolved in water

droplets, surrounded by an immiscible fuel; or droplets of an immiscible fuel surrounded by
water containing substantial amounts of oxidizer.

Explosion – A chemical reaction involving an extremely rapid expansion of gases usually

associated with the liberation of heat.

Explosive – Any chemical compound, mixture, or device, the primary or common purpose of
which is to function by explosion.

Explosives License – Own & Possess – A license issued by NYS Department of Labor for the
purpose of purchasing, owning, possessing, or transporting explosives.

Explosive Loading Factor – The amount of explosive used per unit volume of rock. Also called
Powder Factor.

Explosive Materials – These include explosives, blasting agents, and detonators. The term
includes, but is not limited to, dynamite and other high explosives; slurries, emulsions, and water
gels; black powder and pellet powder; initiating explosives; detonators (blasting caps); and
detonating cord.

Extra (Ammonia) Dynamite – A dynamite in which part of the nitroglycerin is replaced by

ammonium nitrate in sufficient quantity to result in the same weight strength.

Extraneous Electricity – Electrical energy, other than actual firing current or the test current
from a blasting galvanometer, that is present at a blast site and that could enter an electric
blasting circuit. It includes stray current, static electricity, RF (electromagnetic) waves, and time-
varying electric and magnetic fields.

Flyrock – Rocks propelled from the blast area by the force of an explosion.

Fragmentation – The breaking of a solid mass into pieces by blasting.

Free Face – A rock surface exposed to air or water which provides room for expansion upon
fragmentation. Sometimes called open face.

Fuel – A substance which may react with oxygen to produce combustion.

Fumes – The gaseous products of an explosion. For the purpose of determining the fume
classification of explosive material, only poisonous or toxic gases are considered.

Gelatin Dynamite – A type of highly water resistant dynamite characterized by its gelatinous or
plastic consistency.

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Geology – A description of the types and arrangement of rock in an area; the description usually
includes the bedding dip and strike, the type and extent of pre-existing breaks in the rock, and the
hardness and massiveness of the rock, as these affect blast design.

Grains – A weight measurement where 7000 grains are equivalent to 1 lb. (0.45 kg).

Ground Vibration – Shaking the ground by elastic waves emanating from a blast. Usually
measured in in/s (mm/s) of particle velocity.

High Explosives – Explosives which are characterized by a very high rate of reaction, high
pressure development, and the presence of a detonation wave in the explosive.

Initiator – A detonator, detonating cord or similar device used to start detonation or deflagration
in an explosive material.

Lift – The vertical thickness of rock fragmented from a single blast.

Loading – Placing explosive material in a blast hole or against the material to be blasted.

Loading Density – The weight of explosive loaded per unit length of borehole occupied by the
explosive, expressed as lbs/ft (kg/m) of borehole.

Loading Limits – The maximum quantity of explosives allowed per delay period as specified by
the Standard Specifications.

Loading Pole – A nonmetallic pole used to assist in placing and compacting explosives charges
in boreholes.

Low Explosives – Explosives which are characterized by deflagration or low rate of reaction and
the development of low pressure.

Magazine – Any building, structure, or container approved for the storage of explosives
materials.

Mass Explosion – An explosion which affects almost the entire load or quantity of explosives
virtually instantaneously.

Maximum Particle Velocity (Peak Particle Velocity) – The maximum velocity at which the
ground surface moves as a wave passes under it. The customary practice is to apply vibration
limits to the peak particle velocity of the largest single component on the seismograph.

Millisecond (ms) – One thousand part of a second (.001 or 1/1000 sec.).

Misfire – A blast or specific borehole that failed to detonate as planned. Also the explosive
materials that failed to detonate as planned.

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Muckpile – The pile of broken material resulting from a blast.

Nitroglycerin – An explosive chemical compound used as a sensitizer in dynamite.

Nonelectric Detonator – A detonator that does not require the use of electric energy to function.

Nonsparking Metal – A metal that will not produce a spark when struck with other tools, rock,
or hard surface.

Overbreak – See backbreak.

Overburden – Material of any nature laying on top of the rock that is to be blasted.

Oxidizer – A substance, such as nitrate, that readily yields oxygen or other oxidizing substances
to promote the combustion of organic matter or other fuel.

Particle Velocity - The velocity at which the ground surface moves as a wave passes under it.

PETN – An abbreviation for the name of the high explosive pentaerythritol tetranitrate.

Placards – signs placed on vehicles transporting hazardous materials (including explosive

materials) indicating the nature of the cargo.

Plosophoric Materials – Two or more unmixed, commercially manufactured, prepackaged

chemical materials which are not classified as explosives but which, when mixed or combined,
form a blasting explosive.

Powder Factor – The amount of explosive used per unit volume of rock. Also called Explosive
Loading Factor.

Preblast Survey – A documentation of the preexisting condition of structures near an area where
blasting is to be conducted.

Premature Firing – The detonation of an explosive charge before the intended time.

Presplitting – A blasting method in which cracks for the final contour or payline are created by
firing a single row of holes containing light, well distributed charges, prior to the initiation of the
remaining holes in the blast pattern.

Prilled Ammonium Nitrate – Ammonium nitrate in a pelleted or prilled form.

Primer – An explosive charge used to initiate other explosives or blasting agents. The primer is
initiated by a detonator or detonating cord to which is attached a detonator.

Production Blasting – A blasting method whose sole purpose is to fragment the rock.

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Propagation – The detonation of an explosive charge by an impulse received from an adjacent
or nearby explosive charge.

Project Blaster(s) – A certified blaster who has been approved to blast on State ROW (see
Blaster-in-Charge).

Relief – The effective distance from a blast hole to the nearest free face (synonymous with
burden).

Round – A group of boreholes fired or intended to be fired in a continuous sequence.

Scaled Distance – A factor relating expected vibration levels from various weight charges of
explosive materials at various distances.

Secondary Blasting – Blasting to reduce the size of boulders resulting from a primary blast.

Seismograph – An instrument which records ground vibrations generated by blasting operations.

Particle velocity displacement is generally measured and recorded in three mutually
perpendicular directions.

Sensitivity – A physical characteristic of an explosive material classifying its ability to be

initiated upon receiving an external impulse such as impact, shock, flame, friction, or other
influence which can cause detonation.

Shaped Charges – An explosive with a shaped cavity specifically designed to produce a high
velocity cutting or piercing jet of product reaction; usually lined with metal to create a jet of
molten liner material. They are generally used to cut steel members during superstructure
demolition.

Shock Tube – A small diameter plastic tube used for initiating detonators. It contains only a
limited amount of reactive material so that the energy that is transmitted through the tube by
means of a detonation wave is guided through and confined within the walls of the tube.

Short Delay Blasting – The practice of detonating blastholes in successive intervals where the
time distance between any two successive detonations is measured in milliseconds.

Slurry – An explosive material containing substantial portion of a liquid, oxidizers, and fuel,
plus a thickener.

Stemming – Inert material placed in a borehole on top of or between separate charges. Used for
the purpose of confining explosive gases or to physically separate charges of explosive material
in the same borehole.

Subdrilling – The practice of drilling boreholes below floor level or working elevation to insure
breakage of rock to working elevation.

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Sympathetic Detonation – The detonation of an explosive material as the result of receiving an
impulse from another detonation through air, earth, or water. Synonymous with sympathetic
propagation.

Tamping – The action of compacting the explosive charge or the stemming in a blasthole.
Sometimes refers to the stemming material itself.

Warning Signal – An audible signal which is used for warning personnel in the vicinity of the
blast area of the impending explosion.

Water Gel – An explosive material containing substantial portions of water, oxidizers, and fuel,
plus a cross-linking agent.

Water Resistance – The ability of an explosive to withstand the desensitizing effect of water
penetration.

Weight Strength – The energy of an explosive material per unit of weight.

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2. PROCEDURE FOR BLASTING WITHIN NYSDOT ROW

A. Submittal of Written Blast Plan

A written blast plan prepared by a Project Blaster shall be submitted by the Contractor to the
Engineer a minimum 10 working days prior to scheduling a preblast meeting. The Engineer shall
send a copy of the Blast Plan to the Regional Geotechnical Engineer who shall forward a copy to
the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau, Engineering Geology Section for review. The Blast Plan
may be returned to the blaster for revision or clarification prior to scheduling the preblast
meeting. The blast plan shall detail the methods and manner by which the Project Blaster will
comply with pertinent laws, rules, regulations, and contract documents. The plan shall include all
information necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed blasting operations. The blast
plan shall included all steps necessary to ensure that the proposed blasting activity does not cause
injury, damage property, adversely affect traffic, or cause the migration/accumulation of noxious
gases. Individual blasts on a project are rarely identical. The plan should show the details for a
typical blast with the understanding that minor modifications in the field will be allowed.
Significant changes to the blasting operations will require that a new blast plan be submitted for
approval. When deemed necessary by the Engineer, approved blast plans will be required for
each individual shot. The blast plan shall include the following items:

1. Project Designations
 Name of Project Blaster(s).
 Photocopy of the Project Blaster’s Explosives License (Own & Possess) and
Certificate of Competence.
 Employer of the Project Blaster (Contractor or subcontractor).
 Scheduled start date and length of blasting operations and blast monitoring
operations.
 Limits of blasting work.
 Requirements for local permits.
 Location of any State owned structures in proximity to the blasting.
 Location of any utilities in proximity to the blasting.
 Location of any contaminants or flammable liquids or vapors in the area to be
blasted.

2. Safety and Health Requirements

 Type of audible warning signals and signal sequence.
 Name of company that will deliver explosives to the project site.
 Location of any preblast surveys.
 Location of any vibration monitoring at State owned structures, utilities on or off
State ROW, or privately owned structures off State ROW.
 Location of any air blast overpressure monitoring.
 If seismographs will be used, provide the manufacturer’s name, model number,
and documentation of calibration performed within the last 12 months. Also
provide name(s) of seismograph operators and relevant training and experience.
 List steps that will be taken to control flyrock (i.e. blasting mats).

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  Are carbon monoxide or other noxious fumes likely to migrate from the blast
location or accumulate within nearby structures and, if so, what will be done to
detect and prevent their migration.

3. Methods and Procedures

 Type of drilling equipment.
 Method of collaring and aligning presplit drill holes.
 Hole diameter.
 Drilling pattern.
 Use of sequential timer.
 Types of explosives, primers, initiators, and other blasting devices. Include
manufacturer’s technical data sheets and material safety data sheets for all
products.
 Loading parameters:
A. Maximum and/or average weight of explosives per volume of rock.
B. Maximum weight of explosives per delay.
 Blasting cap delay patterns.

B. Scheduling Preblast Meetings

After approval is granted to schedule the meeting, the Engineer should contact the Engineering
Geology Section via the Regional Geotechnical Engineer, and the Contractor, to schedule the
meeting. The Contractor is responsible for inviting the Blaster (all Blasters whom the Contractor
wants to be designated as Project Blasters must attend the meeting) and all interested parties
(including but not limited to utilities, railroads, local political jurisdictions, local law
enforcement agencies, and local emergency services) a minimum of 3 work days in advance of
the meeting. Representatives for all utilities located within 200 ft. (60 m) of the blasting (300 ft.
(90 m) for gas transmission lines) shall be invited.

C. Conducting Preblast Meetings

A preblast meeting shall be held at the site to discuss the proposed blasting operations. In
attendance will be the Engineer, the Contractor, the Project Blaster(s) an Engineering Geologist
from the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau, and other interested parties. Final approval to blast
will be granted based upon the results of the meeting.

A preblast meeting is intended to initiate open communications with the Project Blaster(s)
relating to the requirements for rock drilling and blasting, and demolition by blasting work on
Departmental projects. An Engineering Geologist from the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau
conducts the preblast meeting, which includes discussions on the blast plan and other pertinent
information (see Appendix A).

A new preblast meeting will be required to designate new Project Blasters.

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D. Inspection and Documentation

An Engineering Geologist will be available to train construction inspection staff in the proper
method of inspecting blasting operations including ensuring that the blasting is carried out in a
safe manner and documenting each blast using the Blasting Report Form SM 469 US Customary
Units (GE 469 International System of Units) (see Appendix B, C, and D).

The State requires that, when seismographs are used to monitor vibrations, the Contractor will
maintain seismograph records and make them available to the State if requested.

E. Test Blasts

Test sections are required for presplit slopes and test blasts may be required for other types of
blasting situations. An Engineering Geologist will evaluate the test blast/section and determine if
adjustments to the rock slope design and/or blasting operations are necessary (see Appendix F).

F. Blasting Progress Meetings

At the request of the Engineer, meetings may be held at any time during the project to review the
progress of the blasting operations, discuss modifications to the methods and procedures of the
written blast plan and/or discuss issues with upcoming blasts. In attendance will be the Engineer,
the Contractor, the Project Blaster(s), an Engineering Geologist from the Geotechnical
Engineering Bureau, and other interested parties.

As indicated previously, a new preblast meeting is required to designate new Project Blasters.

G. Blasting Review

If a blast causes injury, damage to property, adversely affects traffic, or causes gases to migrate
and/or accumulate in a potentially harmful manner, all blasting operations shall cease by order of
the Engineer for a review of the procedures. The review will be conducted by the Engineer in
conjunction with an Engineering Geologist from the Geotechnical Engineering Bureau to ensure
proper procedures and practices were used and to determine if the approved procedures need to
be revised. Should the findings of the review indicate the injury, damage, traffic delay, or
migration/accumulation of gases was attributed to improper blasting operations, the Blaster-in-
Charge may be removed at the State’s option.

EB 15-025 Page 16 of 17
 APPENDICES

EB 15-025 Page 17 of 17
APPENDIX A Preblast Meeting Itinerary

1. Opening Remarks
a. Verification of Attendance of Concerned Parties
b. Statement of DOT Standard Specifications
c. Description of Project by Engineer (Scope of Work, Stationing, etc.)
d. Start Date for Blasting Operations
e. Estimated Time to Complete Blasting
2. Project Designations
a. Identify Prime Contractor
b. Identify Project Blaster(s)
c. Insurance Details
3. Safety and Health Requirements
a. State and Federal Laws
b. Local Permits/Laws
c. Signage and Traffic Control (per MUTCD)
d. Audible Warning Signal System
e. Proper Delivery and Storage of Explosive Material
f. Pre-Blast Survey
g. Vibration and Airblast Monitoring (NYSDOL limits and qualified seismograph
operators)
h. Flyrock Control
i. Control of Blast Generated Fumes
j. Other concerns (Utilities, Municipalities, etc.)
k. Duty to Report Unusual Incidents (12 NYCRR 61)
4. Blasting Specifics/Review of Blast Plan
a. Verification of License/Certificate of Competence
b. Methods/Procedures
1. Type of Drilling Equipment
2. Hole Size
3. Drilling Pattern
4. Timing of Blast/Type of System (Electric/Non-Electric)
5. Explosives (Brand, Size, etc.)
6. Blasting Caps (Type, Delay, etc.)
7. Loading of Holes
5. Presplitting
a. General Rules/Regulations/Specifications regarding presplit rock slopes
b. Test Section
c. Rules/Regulations regarding multiple lifts
d. Scaling
6. Conclusion

EB 15-025 A-1
APPENDIX B General Guidelines for Project Inspectors

1. Drilling
Establish that:
a. Prior to blasting, no rock excavation is allowed within 10 ft. (3 m) of the presplit
line.
b. Overburden is stripped from bedrock along the top of the presplit line. Ensure
that the bedrock surface is not overexcavated as in the case of weak shale.
c. The drill steel is straight and in satisfactory condition.
d. The plumb line for orienting the drill steel alignment is correctly located on a line
parallel to the presplit line.
e. The slope inclination template is the proper dimension and that a minimum 2 ft.
(0.6 m) carpenter’s level is attached to the template. (Preblast meeting
agreement).
f. The driller or the driller’s assistant has achieved the proper drill steel alignment as
the drill bit is collared by the bedrock surface. (The alignment can only be
assured at this time since once the drill is progressed into the rock, it is very
difficult to reconfigure alignment).
g. The drill hole is of the proper depth (including sub-drilling) for each hole
h. The pre-split drill holes are on 3 ft. (1 m) centers
i. The driller is using carbide insert cross bits (preferable to button bits) and solid
drill steel (preferable to spiral drill steel).
j. The closest row of production (fragmentation) holes to the presplit line is drilled
no closer than 4 ft. (1.2 m) to and on the same angle as the presplit holes.
k. Driller’s notes and logs should be kept.

2. Blasting
Check:
a. The depth of each presplit hole and clear any obstructions immediately prior to
loading any explosives.
b. The presplit explosive weight to insure that it is not heavier than the specified
maximum weight of 0.35 pound per linear foot (0.5 kg per meter). It is
recommended that the inspector count the number of sticks of explosive in a new
box, multiply by the standard length of each cartridge to obtain the total cartridge
length of each box and divide the box weight by the total cartridge length of box.
c. That the presplit line is loaded first, and a minimum distance of burden + 3 ft. (1
m) in advance of the closest loaded production hole in the section
d. That the earliest sequenced delay detonator is affixed to the presplit trunk line
detonating cord, ensuring that the presplit slope is blasted prior to any adjacent
production hole by a minimum of 25 milliseconds.
e. That no free flowing explosives (ANFO, prills or water gels) be used in any
production holes located within 10 ft. (3 m) of the presplit slope.
f. That the stemming material to be used for presplit holes is #1A crushed stone
rather than crushed gravel. (Crushed gravel has rounded edges and shotguns out of
the hole rather than locking together to keep the presplit explosive gasses in the
hole to split the bedrock).
g. Driller’s notes and logs should be used by the Project Blaster to make adjustments
to explosives loading to account for geologic conditions and borehole deviation.

EB 15-025 B-1
APPENDIX C Blasting Report Form SM 469 (US Customary Units)

EB 15-025 C-1
APPENDIX C Blasting Report Form GE 469 (International System of Units)

EB 15-025 C-2
APPENDIX D Instructions for Filling Out the Blasting Report Form (SM 469 and
GE 469)

Heading Data
Job Stamp - Imprint job stamp under "Job Stamp'.

E.I.C. - Enter the name of the Engineer-in-Charge.

Inspector - Enter the name of the state or consultant blast inspector.

Blaster - Enter the name of the Blaster-in-Charge.

Report No. - Sequentially number from 1, beginning with the first blast detonated.

Date - Enter the date of the blast. If the shot is loaded one day and detonated the
next, enter the date of the detonation.

Time - Enter the actual time and date (if different from loading) the blast is
detonated (Hr. & Min).

Shot Hole Data

Station Limits - Enter the stations of the beginning and end of the presplit holes to be
detonated if presplit is involved. Do the same for production holes, if
production only is loaded.

No. & Diameter - Enter total number of presplit holes & diameter. Do the same for production
holes.

Spacing/Pattern - Maximum 3 ft. (1 m) on center for presplit holes. For production pattern
enter average distance between holes in rows and average distance between
rows (Spacing X Burden) in feet (meters).

Depth - Enter range of depth to grade next to "To Grade", enter depth of overdrilling
next to 'Overdrilling' (feet) (meters).

Total Depth - The sum of 'To Grade' & 'Overdrilling' = total depth. Because ‘to grade’ and
‘overdrilling’ are usually ranges, ‘total depth’ will usually be a range also.

Stemming - Depth in feet (meters), from top of drill hole to top of explosives. For
presplit holes it’s required that the presplit powder be within 3 ft. (1 m) of
the ground surface and the entire hole stemmed.

Type - It’s required that No. 1-A crushed stone be used for stemming presplit holes.
Production holes can be stemmed with drill cuttings or soil as long as it’s
effective.

EB 15-025 D-1
APPENDIX D Instructions for Filling Out the Blasting Report Form (SM 469 and
GE 469)

Explosive and Detonation Data

Producer - Enter the manufacturer of each explosive (base charge, column charge,
production explosive & blasting agent). Examples are Dyno Nobel and
Austin.

Type - Enter the manufacturer's product name of each in the appropriate column.
Also enter the strength percentage (40%, 60%, etc.) as on the container.
Examples are Dynosplit and Unimax.

Dimension - Enter diameter and length of the individual cartridges in the appropriate
columns.

Weight - Enter weight per stick of base charge, weight/foot (weight/meter) of presplit
powder, weight per stick of production charges & weight of column for
blasting agent. All weight is in pounds (kilograms).

Total weight - Enter the sum total for each type of explosive, base charge, column charge,
production explosive & blasting agent.

Initiation (Type) - Enter 'electric blasting (EB) caps' or 'non electric blast (NEB) caps' or other
method as used. List cap manufacturer brand and series.

Delays - Enter the number of different delay periods used. Period(s): enter the delay
periods used. Examples are: electric – 25,75,100 ms; nonelectric – 25/350,
25/500 ms.

Max. lbs/Delay
Max. kg/Delay - Add the weight of explosives on each different delay per blast. The greatest
weight of explosives detonated per delay is the max. pounds/delay
(kilograms/delay) at 25 ms or 75 ms or 250 ms, etc.

EB 15-025 D-2
APPENDIX D Instructions for Filling Out the Blasting Report Form (SM 469 and
GE 469)

Presplit Check List

Before Loading any holes with explosives
1. The blaster must designate P-S holes in the section to be loaded.
2. Back up from end and designate the production section to be loaded.
3. Check all P-S holes for obstruction and clear all P-S holes before loading
any P-S or production powder.

Holes Tested for Obstructions □ - check the box only after all presplit holes have been tested
for clearance immediately before loading any explosives.
Use either loading poles, measuring tape or some other
device which can assure that the holes are clear to the full
drilled length. All obstructed holes must be cleared before
any explosives loading can begin.
Burden +3 ft. (or ______)
(Burden +1 m (or ___)) Loaded Ahead □ - check the box only after it has been
determined that the presplit line is loaded with explosives a
length which equals the burden + 3 ft. (+ 1 m) past the
closest production hole to the end of the presplt line.
Usually this works out to 3 presplit holes. No production
holes can be loaded past a perpendicular line to the presplit
line from the third hole back.

Fired 25 MS ahead □ - Presplit holes must be detonated a minimum of 25 MS

ahead of the production holes in that section.

Only Cartridges within 10 ft. of Slope □ -

(Only Cartridges within 3 m of Slope □)- No uncontained or poured explosives are allowed
in holes within 10 ft. (3 m) of the presplit plane.

Remarks - Utilized this area to report on the results of the blast, i.e. damage/no damage, cutoffs,
flyrock, road closed, traffic delay, seismograph locations and readings, carbon
monoxide monitor locations and readings, etc.

EB 15-025 D-3
APPENDIX D Instructions for Filling Out the Blasting Report Form (SM 469 and
GE 469)

Ignition Pattern- Utilize this area to draw an accurate plan view of drill holes, including:
a. edge of rock
b. north arrow
c. station and offset of beginning and end of presplit line
d. hole numbers
e. spacing
f. burden
g. timing of initiation of each hole (adjusted to sequential timer if one
is used. Diagram wiring connections).
h. important geologic features, i.e., seams, boulders, etc.
i. hole depths and lbs. (kg) of explosives per hole & per deck, if used
j. show detonation cord type & location

EB 15-025 D-4
APPENDIX E Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations

Transportation of explosives (12 NYCRR 39; 49 CFR 177; 29 CFR 1926 Subpart U)

• A vehicle carrying explosives shall not be left unattended or unguarded. Someone able to
move the vehicle, familiar with the hazards of the material being transported and who
knows what to do in an emergency must be awake in the vehicle or within 100 ft. (30 m)
of the vehicle and have it in clear view.

• It is prohibited to park within 300 ft. (90 m) of a bridge, tunnel, building, a place where
people gather, or an open fire unless absolutely necessary to perform their work.

• The vehicle shall not be parked within 5 ft. (1.5 m) of a traveled roadway.

• The vehicle shall make no unnecessary stops.

• Explosives shall be loaded/unloaded only when engine is off and parking brake is set.

• Do not travel through congested areas or heavy traffic unless it is a designated route.

• No device or material capable of producing spark, flame or heat shall be placed or carried
on a vehicle containing explosives.

• Proper placards are required on both sides and the front and back of the vehicle.

• Fire extinguishers required with a rating of at least 10: ABC. If carrying 200 lbs. (90 kg)
or more of explosives, two 10 to 12 lbs. (4.5 to 5.5 kg) carbon dioxide fire extinguishers
or two 4 to 7 lbs. (1.8 to 3 kg) dry chemical fire extinguishers are required.

• Explosives shall not be transported on a trailer and a vehicle carrying explosives shall not
have a trailer in tow.

• The sides and ends of an open-ended vehicle shall be high enough to prevent packages of
explosives from falling off the vehicle and the explosives shall not be stacked higher than
the sides of the vehicle.

• Up to 50 detonators may be carried on a vehicle containing explosives provided that: the

detonators are in their original shipping containers, or a box constructed of 1 in. (25 mm)
lumber lined with padding not less than ½ in. (13 mm) thick or wrapped in cloth with
cloth separating each detonator, and the detonators must be in a place remote from the
explosives that is easily accessible for quick removal.

• Exposed ferrous metal on the vehicle body that may come in contact with the explosive
packages must be covered with wood or other non-ferrous material.

EB 15-025 E-1
APPENDIX E Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations

Explosive safety and handling (29 CFR 1926 Subpart U)

• Smoking, firearms, matches, open flames lamps, flames, heat producing devices and
sparks are prohibited in or near magazines or while explosives are being handled,
transported or used.

• All explosives must be accounted for at all times. Explosives not in use shall be in a
locked magazine.

• Explosives or blasting agents shall not be abandoned.

• Original containers or class II magazines shall be used for the transport of detonators and
explosives from storage to the blasting area.

• Blasting operations above ground shall be conducted between sunup and sundown.

• Electric detonators shall be short-circuited and shunted in holes which have been primed
until wired into the blasting circuit.

• Blasting operations shall be suspended and personnel shall leave the blasting area upon
the approach and progress of an electrical storm.

• Blasting zone signs and signs warning against the use of mobile radio transmitters must
be posted on all roads within 1000 ft. (300 m) of the blasting area.

• Mobile radio transmitters which are less than 100 ft. (30 m) from electric blasting caps
shall be deenergized and effectively locked.

• Empty boxes and paper and fiber packing materials, which have previously held
explosives, shall not be used for any purpose and shall be destroyed by burning.

• Blasting operations in the vicinity of overhead power lines, communication lines, utilities,
or other services and structures will not be carried out until the Utilities are notified and
measures for safe control have been taken.

• Use of black powder is prohibited.

• Smoking and open flames are not permitted within 50 ft. (15 m) of explosives and
detonator storage magazines.

• Tamping will be done with wood rods or plastic tamping poles without exposed metal
parts. No violent tamping is allowed.

• After loading holes, all unused explosives and detonators must be returned to an
authorized magazine.

EB 15-025 E-2
APPENDIX E Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations

• No person will be allowed to deepen drill holes which have previously contained
explosives or blasting agents.

• Equipment will not be operated within 50 ft. (15 m) of loaded holes (no drilling, digging,
etc.).

• Electric cables in the proximity of the blast area shall be deenergized and locked out.

• Holes will be checked prior to loading to determine depth and conditions of the hole.

• No drilling is allowed within 50 ft. (15 m) of a hole that has been loaded with explosives
and has failed to detonate.

• All blast holes will be stemmed to the collar or a point that will confine the charge.

• Blasting cap leg wires will be kept short-circuited (shunted) until they are connected into
the circuit for firing.

• A code of blasting warning signals (29 CFR 1926) shall be posted conspicuously at the
operation and all employees shall be familiar with the signals.

• A loud signal must be given by the blaster of record prior to firing the blast.

• Flaggers must be safely positioned on roadways passing through the danger zone to stop
traffic during the blasting operations.

• Following the blast, the blasting machine or other initiation devices shall be disconnected
from the firing line or turned off in the case of power switches.

• The blaster shall check the surrounding rubble and blasting area to determine that all
charges have been exploded.

• If a misfire occurs, only those employees necessary to do the work shall remain in the
blast zone.

• No attempt will be made to extract explosives from any charged or misfired hole. A new
primer shall be installed and the hole reblasted. If refiring the hole is a hazard, the
explosives may be removed by washing out with water.

• No drilling, digging, or picking will be permitted until all missed holes have been
detonated.

EB 15-025 E-3
APPENDIX E Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations

Explosive licensing (12 NYCRR 39, 12 NYCRR 61)

• To purchase, transport, own and possess explosives, an explosives license is required.

• The handling and placing of explosives in preparation of a blast shall be performed by a

certified blaster or by persons under the supervision of a certified blaster.

• Only a certified blaster may detonate explosives. The Blaster must be certified in the
specific Department of Labor category in order to perform the work.

Explosive storage (12 NYCRR 39, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart U)

• Magazines and all enclosures used for storage of explosives shall be kept locked.

• Inventory of explosives shall be taken at the end of the day after blasting operations or
whenever the magazine is opened.

• Magazines shall be inspected at least every 3 days.

• No smoking or flames are allowed within 50 ft. (15 m) of any explosive or magazine.

• No blasting equipment shall be stored in a magazine.

• Separate magazines shall be provided for explosives and detonators.

• No lights in magazine except battery activated electric flashlights or electric lanterns

enclosed in rubber or other insulating cover.

• Ground around the magazine for a distance of 25 ft. (7.5 m) must be kept clean of
flammable debris such as dry leaves and grass.

• No discharge of firearms at or within 500 ft. (150 m) of a magazine.

• Magazines must be located certain distances from buildings, railways, highways and other
magazines based on the quantity of explosives stored in the magazine.

• The distances of separation can be decreased by 50% if the magazine or other structure
containing explosives if protected by an efficient barricade.

• Explosive quantity conversion of detonators and detonating cord.

- Cap size up to and including #8: 1000 caps are rated equivalent to 1.5 lbs. (0.7 kg)
of explosives.

- Cap size larger than #8: 1000 caps are rated equivalent to 3 lbs. (1.4 kg) of
explosives.

EB 15-025 E-4
APPENDIX E Highlights from State and Federal Safety Regulations

- Detonating cord up to and including 60 grains/foot: 1000 ft. (300 m) is rated

equivalent to 9 lbs. (4 kg) of explosive.

- Detonating cord above 60 grains/foot: 1000 ft. (300 m) is rated equivalent to 15

lbs. (6.8 kg) of explosives.

Underground utilities (12 NYCRR 53)

• Underground facilities within 15 ft. (4.5 m) of a proposed excavation or demolition must

be staked, marked or otherwise designated.

• Verification shall be accomplished by exposing the underground facility or its

encasement to view or by other means mutually agreed to by the excavator and operator.

• Powered equipment shall not be used within 4 in. (100 mm) of the verified location of an
underground facility.

EB 15-025 E-5
APPENDIX F Geologic Evaluation of Test Section

A test section is required on all newly constructed (or reconfigured) presplit slopes. The test
section should be cleared and scaled in such a manner that its appearance and attitude be
identical to that of the finished rock cut.

The test section exposes all discontinuities present in the bedrock. Since even the most advanced
design exploration methods cannot reveal every feature present, the test section will enable the
Engineering Geologist to determine if the slope will be stable as designed. If it is determined
upon evaluation of the test section that the slope is unstable, the Engineering Geologist can
change the slope design to one which will be stable.

The Engineering Geologist will inspect the test section, paying specific attention to drill butt
traces. The geologist will examine:

1. Initial alignment of drill steel

2. Divergence, convergence or oversteepening of drilled holes
Possible causes:
a. Drill Bits (Cross Bits are preferable to Button Bits)
b. Drill Steel (Solid Steel is preferable to Spiral Steel)
c. Geology
1. Alternating Beds (e.g. shale/sandstone/shale)
2. Jointing/Fractures/Voids
3. Soft Rock (leading to gravity caused oversteepening)
d. Excessive down pressure
3. Final Appearance of Finished Slope
a. Dimensions of Finished Product
b. Rock Condition
c. Unconformities/Significant Facies Changes
4. Concerns/Issues as the slope weathers

If the Engineering Geologist is not satisfied with the final appearance of the test section, or more
information is needed, an additional test section may be required to fully address all concerns.

EB 15-025 F-1