Explanation of State and Local Blasting Rules & Regulations
Massachusetts law 527 CMR 13.00 regulates the manufacture, mixing, transportation, storage, sale and use of explosives and explosive material. All blasters are licensed by the State Fire Marshall’s Office and are issued a “Use and Handling Permit “ or permit to blast.
Prior to blasting the blasting company must apply for a permit through the local fire department. To obtain a blasting permit the blasting company must provide copies of the following documents;
Explosives User Certificate
Certificate of Competency for each blaster
Certificate of Insurance
Blast Analysis
Blast Design Plan
The Blast Analysis which shall consider adjacent area structures, buildings, building foundations, utilities, including gas and water supply lines, septic systems, swimming pools and area geology within 250 feet of the closest blasting point. All structures within 250 feet of blasting shall have a pre-blast survey. During the pre-blast survey owners of property within the defined area shall be notified by the survey company that they have 30 days to file a complaint after the blasting incident.
The Blast Design Plan establishes the relationships between current industry standards and acceptable limits of the effects of blasting. When blasting is done in a congested area and within 250’ of a structure, roadway or any other installation precautions shall be taken by the blaster in the design of the blast plan to prevent damage and minimize adverse effects including ground vibrations, air blast and fly rock.
A blaster shall use every reasonable precaution, including but not limited to audible signals, warning signs, flags, barricades or other equally effective means to ensure the safety of the general public and workers.
Audible Signals;
Warning Signal - three long blasts five minutes prior to blast signal.
Blast Signal - two blasts one minute prior to the blast.
All Clear Signal - prolonged blast following the inspection of the blast area.
Warning signs shall be posted within 500 feet and not less than 100 feet of blasting operations. Seismic instruments capable of reading and recording the acceptable limits and maintained and calibrated in accordance with manufactures instructions shall be used to record the blast.
In Manchester a firefighter is required on site to monitor blasting operations. If you have any concerns or questions regarding these rules and regulations please contact the fire department. Stop by or call the fire station at 526-4040.
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