Section 300.235  Training

a)         Training required in this Section, for those persons not previously trained in the subjects required in this Section, shall be conducted by the Department.  The training must meet the requirements of this Section.

b)         The training for blaster's licensure shall include instruction in:

1)         The design and layout of blasts, including geology, topography and the proper use of delays.

2)         Control of ground vibration.

3)         Control of flyrock and airblast.

4)         Design and loading of boreholes.

5)         Priming and boosting.

6)         Tamping and stemming, including methods and materials.

7)         Blast initiation systems.

8)         The use of blasting machines.

9)         The use of circuit testing equipment.

10)       The general properties of explosives, including blasting agents and selection criteria.

11)       Ground vibration, airblast and monitoring.

12)       The use of ground vibration and airblast records as blast design factors.

13)       The need for accurate reports and blasting logs and their proper preparation.

14)       Current Illinois and Federal laws and regulations pertaining to blasting at the operation.

15)       Planning for unpredictable blasting hazards to the public and mine personnel. Illustrative examples are adverse weather, stray electrical currents, flyrock, radio frequency energy and misfires.

16)       Signs, warning signals and control of the potential flyrock area.

17)       Site security and safety.

18)       Handling, transportation and storage of explosives.

19)       New technology as it develops and is implemented in the field.

20)       Training and licensure requirements.

c)         The licensed blaster shall provide direction and on-the-job training to all non-licensed blasting personnel under his supervision.

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 9650, effective June 24, 2024)