Specialized Blasting Techniques DGMS Exam Notes 2025


Specialized Blasting Q&A – DGMS Exam Guide

Specialized Blasting Q&A

DGMS Exam Guide

1. Detailed Notes

Avalanche Control Methods

  • Hand Charges: Small, manually placed explosives for short-range cornice or slab control.
  • Avalauncher: A medium-range, portable compressed-gas cannon firing explosive projectiles.
  • Howitzer/Artillery: Long-range military guns for all-weather, remote avalanche triggering.
  • Helicopter Delivery: Dropping or firing charges from aircraft in inaccessible areas.

Fireline Blasting Procedure

  • Purpose: Rapid creation of firebreaks in difficult terrain using explosives like PETN detcord.
  • Procedure: Reconnaissance → Layout of charges → Non-electric initiation → Zone clearance & warnings → Firing → Mop-up of hotspots.
  • Safety: Use of DGMS-approved explosives and on-site fire control equipment is mandatory.

Expanding Grout (Non-Explosive)

  • What it is: A cementitious chemical that expands slowly in drilled holes to crack rock.
  • Advantages: No vibration, noise, or fly rock, making it ideal for use near sensitive structures.
  • DGMS View: Recognized as a safe and effective alternative to blasting in restricted zones.

Explosive Regulations in India

  • Approval: Explosives must be tested by CIMFR and approved by DGMS.
  • Transport: Use locked, approved containers and always keep detonators separate from main charges.
  • Storage: Store only in licensed magazines. Unused explosives must be returned the same day.

Misfire Safety Procedure

  • Wait Time: A mandatory waiting period of at least 30 minutes must be observed before anyone approaches the blast site.
  • Investigation: Only the competent shotfirer who laid the charge is authorized to investigate.
  • Handling: Follow strict SOPs for inspection and re-priming. If unsafe, the area must be secured and reported.

2. Quick One-Liners

  • Avalanche control methods: Hand Charges, Avalauncher, Artillery, Helicopter.
  • Fireline blasting uses PETN detcord to create firebreaks quickly.
  • Expanding grout is a non-explosive chemical for silent rock breaking.
  • Explosives in India require testing by CIMFR and approval from DGMS.
  • The standard waiting time for a misfire is a minimum of 30 minutes.
  • Avalaunchers are powered by compressed nitrogen or CO₂ gas.
  • Surplus explosives must be returned to the magazine on the same day.

3. Descriptive Q&A

Q1. Describe the different methods of avalanche control blasting used in specialized blasting techniques. ONLINEMININGEXAM

Avalanche control blasting is carried out using explosives to release unstable snow masses safely. The main methods are:
  • Hand charges: Small explosive charges placed manually on cornices or slab edges. Suitable for short range and localized control.
  • Avalauncher: A compressed-gas cannon (nitrogen or CO₂) that fires explosive projectiles into snow slopes. It is portable, medium range, and safer compared to artillery.
  • Howitzer/Artillery: Military guns used to fire explosive shells into avalanche start zones from long distances. Suitable in bad weather or inaccessible terrain, but requires trained crew and ordnance clearance.
  • Helicopter delivery: Explosives are dropped or fired from helicopters to trigger avalanches in remote areas.

Importance: These methods reduce avalanche hazards and protect mines, workers, and infrastructure. DGMS mandates use of permitted explosives and strict safety protocols.

Q2. Explain the procedure and safety precautions for fireline blasting. ONLINEMININGEXAM

Fireline blasting is used to create firebreaks by clearing vegetation rapidly where machinery cannot reach.
Procedure:
  • Reconnaissance: Select a safe, effective fireline location.
  • Layout: Lay PETN detonating cord or linear charges along the desired fireline.
  • Initiation: Use non-electric shock tube (Nonel) or EBW detonators to prevent stray current hazards.
  • Clearance: Evacuate the zone, inform local authorities, and issue standard warnings.
  • Blasting: Fire the charges and observe the clearing.
  • Mop-up: Check for hotspots and carry out fire suppression.
Safety Precautions:
  • Only DGMS-approved explosives must be used.
  • The hazard zone must be completely evacuated.
  • Fire control equipment must be on site.
  • Post-blast inspection to confirm no misfires or embers remain.

Q3. What is expanding grout and where is it used as an alternative to blasting? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Expanding grout is a non-explosive demolition agent made from cementitious chemicals. When poured into drilled holes in rock, it expands slowly over several hours, generating pressure that cracks and splits the rock.
Uses:
  • In sensitive environments where explosives are banned.
  • Near structures, dams, tunnels, or residential areas.
  • For small-scale controlled rock breaking in quarries.
Advantages:
  • No vibration, noise, or fly rock.
  • Safe to handle compared to explosives.
  • Environmentally friendly.

Exam Point: Expanding grout is not considered an explosive, but DGMS recognizes it as a safe alternative for rock breaking in restricted zones.

Q4. Discuss the statutory requirements for approval, handling, and storage of explosives used in specialized blasting techniques in India. ONLINEMININGEXAM

In India, explosives used for specialized blasting must comply with statutory requirements under DGMS and the Explosives Act.
Approval:
  • All explosives must be tested by CIMFR (Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research).
  • Approval for field use is granted by DGMS.
Handling & Transport:
  • Transport in approved, locked containers.
  • Detonators must be transported separately from main explosives.
  • Smoking, open flames, or radios are prohibited near handling zones.
Storage:
  • Explosives must be stored in licensed magazines at safe distances.
  • Only the required quantity should be issued daily.
  • Surplus explosives must be returned to the magazine the same day.

Importance: Strict compliance ensures worker safety, prevents accidents, and meets legal obligations under DGMS.

Q5. Write a note on misfire procedure in specialized blasting operations. ONLINEMININGEXAM

A misfire occurs when an explosive charge fails to detonate as planned.
Procedure:
  • Wait Time: Do not approach the blast site for at least 30 minutes (a typical standard).
  • Marking: Mark the suspected misfire zone clearly and withdraw all personnel to a safe location.
  • Investigation: Only the shotfirer who placed the charge is permitted to investigate.
  • Inspection: Use safe, non-sparking tools. Check for faulty detonators or damaged connections without disturbing the main charge.
  • Action: If possible, safely remove the detonator and re-prime. If removal is unsafe, tag the location, secure the area, and report to authorities to render it safe as per SOP.

Importance: Misfire management is critical because handling duds or unexploded shells poses extreme danger. DGMS emphasizes strict adherence to misfire SOPs in all statutory blasting records.

4. Multiple-Choice Quiz

Score: 0 / 20

Q1. Which avalanche control method is best suited for short-range, localized tasks like cornice removal? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q2. The propellant used in an Avalauncher is typically: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q3. The primary explosive used for creating firebreaks in fireline blasting is: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q4. What is the main advantage of using expanding grout over traditional explosives? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q5. In India, which two bodies are responsible for the testing and approval of explosives? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q6. What is the mandatory minimum waiting time before approaching a suspected misfire? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q7. Who is authorized to investigate and handle a misfired charge? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q8. Which of these is a critical safety step in fireline blasting? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q9. Transporting detonators and main explosives together is: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q10. Surplus explosives not used during a shift must be: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q11. Which avalanche control method offers the longest range and all-weather capability? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q12. The term 'mop-up' in the context of fireline blasting refers to: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q13. Which initiation system is preferred for fireline blasting to avoid hazards from static electricity or stray currents? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q14. The slow, cracking pressure of expanding grout is generated by: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q15. The first step in any specialized blasting operation, before handling explosives, is to: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q16. Storing explosives in a licensed magazine ensures: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q17. A 'dud' in the context of artillery blasting refers to: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q18. What is a key safety measure when transporting explosives? ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q19. Helicopter delivery for avalanche control is primarily used for: ONLINEMININGEXAM

Q20. The overall legal responsibility for all blasting operations in a mine rests with the: ONLINEMININGEXAM

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Describe the different methods of avalanche control blasting used in specialized blasting techniques.

Avalanche control blasting is carried out using explosives to release unstable snow masses safely. The main methods are: Hand charges: Small explosive charges placed manually on cornices or slab edges. Suitable for short range and localized control. Avalauncher: A compressed-gas cannon (nitrogen or CO₂) that fires explosive projectiles into snow slopes. It is portable, medium range, and safer compared to artillery. Howitzer/Artillery: Military guns used to fire explosive shells into avalanche start zones from long distances. Suitable in bad weather or inaccessible terrain, but requires trained crew and ordnance clearance. Helicopter delivery: Explosives are dropped or fired from helicopters to trigger avalanches in remote areas. Importance: These methods reduce avalanche hazards and protect mines, workers, and infrastructure. DGMS mandates use of permitted explosives and strict safety protocols.

Explain the procedure and safety precautions for fireline blasting.

Fireline blasting is used to create firebreaks by clearing vegetation rapidly where machinery cannot reach. Procedure: Reconnaissance: Select a safe, effective fireline location. Layout: Lay PETN detonating cord or linear charges along the desired fireline. Initiation: Use non-electric shock tube (Nonel) or EBW detonators to prevent stray current hazards. Clearance: Evacuate the zone, inform local authorities, and issue standard warnings. Blasting: Fire the charges and observe the clearing. Mop-up: Check for hotspots and carry out fire suppression. Safety Precautions: Only DGMS-approved explosives must be used. The hazard zone must be completely evacuated. Fire control equipment must be on site. Post-blast inspection to confirm no misfires or embers remain.

What is expanding grout and where is it used as an alternative to blasting?

Expanding grout is a non-explosive demolition agent made from cementitious chemicals. When poured into drilled holes in rock, it expands slowly over several hours, generating pressure that cracks and splits the rock. Uses: In sensitive environments where explosives are banned. Near structures, dams, tunnels, or residential areas. For small-scale controlled rock breaking in quarries. Advantages: No vibration, noise, or fly rock. Safe to handle compared to explosives. Environmentally friendly. Exam Point: Expanding grout is not considered an explosive, but DGMS recognizes it as a safe alternative for rock breaking in restricted zones.

Discuss the statutory requirements for approval, handling, and storage of explosives used in specialized blasting techniques in India.

In India, explosives used for specialized blasting must comply with statutory requirements under DGMS and the Explosives Act. Approval: All explosives must be tested by CIMFR (Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research). Approval for field use is granted by DGMS . Handling & Transport: Transport in approved, locked containers. Detonators must be transported separately from main explosives. Smoking, open flames, or radios are prohibited near handling zones. Storage: Explosives must be stored in licensed magazines at safe distances. Only the required quantity should be issued daily. Surplus explosives must be returned to the magazine the same day. Importance: Strict compliance ensures worker safety, prevents accidents, and meets legal obligations under DGMS.

Write a note on misfire procedure in specialized blasting operations.

A misfire occurs when an explosive charge fails to detonate as planned. Procedure: Wait Time: Do not approach the blast site for at least 30 minutes (a typical standard). Marking: Mark the suspected misfire zone clearly and withdraw all personnel to a safe location. Investigation: Only the shotfirer who placed the charge is permitted to investigate. Inspection: Use safe, non-sparking tools. Check for faulty detonators or damaged connections without disturbing the main charge. Action: If possible, safely remove the detonator and re-prime. If removal is unsafe, tag the location, secure the area, and report to authorities to render it safe as per SOP. Importance: Misfire management is critical because handling duds or unexploded shells poses extreme danger. DGMS emphasizes strict adherence to misfire SOPs in all statutory blasting records.

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