[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 29, Volume 5]
[Revised as of January 1, 2007]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 29CFR1910.109]
[Page 279-297]
TITLE 29--LABOR
CHAPTER XVII--OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT
OF LABOR
PART 1910_OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS--Table of Contents
Subpart H_Hazardous Materials
Sec. 1910.109 Explosives and blasting agents.
(a) Definitions applicable to this section--(1) Blasting agent.
Blasting agent--any material or mixture, consisting of a fuel and
oxidizer, intended for blasting, not otherwise classified as an
explosive and in which none of the ingredients are classified as an
explosive, provided that the finished product, as mixed and packaged for
use or shipment, cannot be detonated by means of a No. 8 test blasting
cap when unconfined.
(2) Explosive-actuated power devices. Explosive-actuated power
device--any tool or special mechanized device which is actuated by
explosives, but not including propellant-actuated power devices.
Examples of explosive-actuated power devices are jet tappers and jet
perforators.
(3) Explosive. Explosive--any chemical compound, mixture, or device,
the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion,
i.e., with substantially instantaneous release of gas and heat, unless
such compound, mixture, or device is otherwise specifically classified
by the U.S. Department of Transportation; see 49 CFR chapter I. The term
``explosives'' shall include all material which is classified as Class
A, Class B, and Class C explosives by the U.S. Department of
Transportation, and includes, but is not limited to dynamite, black
powder, pellet powders, initiating explosives, blasting caps, electric
blasting caps, safety fuse, fuse lighters, fuse igniters, squibs,
cordeau detonant fuse, instantaneous fuse, igniter cord, igniters, small
arms ammunition, small arms ammunition primers, smokeless propellant,
cartridges for propellant-actuated power devices, and cartridges for
industrial guns. Commercial explosives are those explosives which are
intended to be used in commercial or industrial operations.
Note 1: Classification of explosives is described by the U.S.
Department of Transportation as follows (see 49 CFR chapter I):
(i) Class A explosives. Possessing, detonating, or otherwise maximum
hazard; such as dynamite, nitroglycerin, picric acid, lead azide,
fulminate of mercury, black powder, blasting caps, and detonating
primers.
(ii) Class B explosives. Possessing flammable hazard, such as
propellant explosives (including some smokeless propellants),
photographic flash powders, and some special fireworks.
(iii) Class C explosives. Includes certain types of manufactured
articles which contain Class A or Class B explosives, or both, as
components but in restricted quantities.
(iv) Forbidden or not acceptable explosives. Explosives which are
forbidden or not acceptable for transportation by common carriers by
rail freight, rail express, highway, or water in accordance with the
regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation, 49 CFR chapter I.
(4) Highway. Highway--any public street, public alley, or public
road.
(5) [Reserved]
(6) Magazine. Magazine--any building or structure, other than an
explosives manufacturing building, used for the storage of explosives.
(7) Motor vehicle. Motor vehicle--any self-propelled vehicle, truck,
tractor, semitrailer, or truck-full trailers used
[[Page 280]]
for the transportation of freight over public highways.
(8) Propellant-actuated power devices. Propellant-actuated power
devices--any tool or special mechanized device or gas generator system
which is actuated by a smokeless propellant or which releases and
directs work through a smokeless propellant charge.
(9) [Reserved]
(10) Pyrotechnics. Pyrotechnics--any combustible or explosive
compositions or manufactured articles designed and prepared for the
purpose of producing audible or visible effects which are commonly
referred to as fireworks.
(11) [Reserved]
(12) Semiconductive hose. Semiconductive hose--a hose with an
electrical resistance high enough to limit flow of stray electric
currents to safe levels, yet not so high as to prevent drainage of
static electric charges to ground; hose of not more than 2 megohms
resistance over its entire length and of not less than 5,000 ohms per
foot meets the requirement.
(13) Small arms ammunition. Small arms ammunition--any shotgun,
rifle, pistol, or revolver cartridge, and cartridges for propellant-
actuated power devices and industrial guns. Military-type ammunition
containing explosive-bursting charges, incendiary, tracer, spotting, or
pyrotechnic projectiles is excluded from this definition.
(14) Small arms ammunition primers. Small arms ammunition primers--
small percussion-sensitive explosive charges, encased in a cup, used to
ignite propellant powder.
(15) Smokeless propellants. Smokeless propellants--solid
propellants, commonly called smokeless powders in the trade, used in
small arms ammunition, cannon, rockets, propellant-actuated power
devices, etc.
(16) Special industrial explosives devices. Special industrial
explosives devices--explosive-actuated power devices and propellant-
actuated power devices.
(17) Special industrial explosives materials. Special industrial
explosives materials--shaped materials and sheet forms and various other
extrusions, pellets, and packages of high explosives, which include
dynamite, trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN),
hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-s-triazine (RDX), and other similar compounds
used for high-energy-rate forming, expanding, and shaping in metal
fabrication, and for dismemberment and quick reduction of scrap metal.
(18) Water gels or slurry explosives. These comprise a wide variety
of materials used for blasting. They all contain substantial proportions
of water and high proportions of ammonium nitrate, some of which is in
solution in the water. Two broad classes of water gels are (i) those
which are sensitized by a material classed as an explosive, such as TNT
or smokeless powder, (ii) those which contain no ingredient classified
as an explosive; these are sensitized with metals such as aluminum or
with other fuels. Water gels may be premixed at an explosives plant or
mixed at the site immediately before delivery into the borehole.
(19) DOT specifications. Regulations of the Department of
Transportation published in 49 CFR chapter I.
(b) Miscellaneous provisions--(1) General hazard. No person shall
store, handle, or transport explosives or blasting agents when such
storage, handling, and transportation of explosives or blasting agents
constitutes an undue hazard to life.
(2) [Reserved]
(c) Storage of explosives--(1) General provisions. (i) All Class A,
Class B, Class C explosives, and special industrial explosives, and any
newly developed and unclassified explosives, shall be kept in magazines
which meet the requirements of this paragraph.
(ii) Blasting caps, electric blasting caps, detonating primers, and
primed cartridges shall not be stored in the same magazine with other
explosives.
(iii) Ground around magazines shall slope away for drainage. The
land surrounding magazines shall be kept clear of brush, dried grass,
leaves, and other materials for a distance of at least 25 feet.
(iv) Magazines as required by this paragraph shall be of two
classes; namely, Class I magazines, and Class II magazines.
(v) Class I magazines shall be required where the quantity of
explosives stored is more than 50 pounds. Class II
[[Page 281]]
magazines may be used where the quantity of explosives stored is 50
pounds or less.
(vi) Class I magazines shall be located away from other magazines in
conformity with Table H-21.
Table H-21--American Table of Distances for Storage of Explosives 1 5
[As revised and approved by the Institute of Makers of Explosives, June
5, 1964]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Explosives Distances in feet when
------------------------------------------------ storage is barricaded:
Pounds over Pounds not over Separation of magazines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 5 6
5 10 8
10 20 10
20 30 11
30 40 12
40 50 14
50 75 15
75 100 16
100 125 18
125 150 19
150 200 21
200 250 23
250 300 24
300 400 27
400 500 29
500 600 31
600 700 32
700 800 33
800 900 35
900 1,000 36
1,000 1,200 39
1,200 1,400 41
1,400 1,600 43
1,600 1,800 44
1,800 2,000 45
2,000 2,500 49
2,500 3,000 52
3,000 4,000 58
4,000 5,000 61
5,000 6,000 65
6,000 7,000 68
7,000 8,000 72
8,000 9,000 75
9,000 10,000 78
10,000 12,000 82
12,000 14,000 87
14,000 16,000 90
16,000 18,000 94
18,000 20,000 98
20,000 25,000 105
25,000 30,000 112
30,000 35,000 119
35,000 40,000 124
40,000 45,000 129
45,000 50,000 135
50,000 55,000 140
55,000 60,000 145
60,000 65,000 150
65,000 70,000 155
70,000 75,000 160
75,000 80,000 165
80,000 85,000 170
85,000 90,000 175
90,000 95,000 180
95,000 100,000 185
100,000 110,000 195
110,000 120,000 205
120,000 130,000 215
130,000 140,000 225
140,000 150,000 235
150,000 160,000 245
160,000 170,000 255
170,000 180,000 265
180,000 190,000 275
190,000 200,000 285
200,000 210,000 295
210,000 230,000 315
230,000 250,000 335
250,000 275,000 360
275,000 300,000 385
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ ``Natural barricade'' means natural features of the ground, such as
hills, or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding exposures
which require protection cannot be seen from the magazine when the
trees are bare of leaves.
\2\ ``Artificial barricade'' means an artificial mound or revetted wall
of earth of a minimum thickness of three feet.
\3\ ``Barricaded'' means that a building containing explosives is
effectually screened from a magazine, building, railway, or highway,
either by a natural barricade, or by an artificial barricade of such
height that a straight line from the top of any sidewall of the
building containing explosives to the eave line of any magazine, or
building, or to a point 12 feet above the center of a railway or
highway, will pass through such intervening natural or artificial
barricade.
\4\ When two or more storage magazines are located on the same property,
each magazine must comply with the minimum distances specified from
inhabited buildings, railways, and highways, and in addition, they
should be separated from each other by not less than the distances
shown for ``Separation of Magazines,'' except that the quantity of
explosives contained in cap magazines shall govern in regard to the
spacing of said cap magazines from magazines containing other
explosives. If any two or more magazines are separated from each other
by less than the specified ``Separation of Magazines'' distances, then
such two or more magazines, as a group, must be considered as one
magazine, and the total quantity of explosives stored in such group
must be treated as if stored in a single magazine located on the site
of any magazine of the group, and must comply with the minimum of
distances specified from other magazines, inhabited buildings,
railways, and highways.
\5\ This table applies only to the permanent storage of commercial
explosives. It is not applicable to transportation of explosives, or
any handling or temporary storage necessary or incident thereto. It is
not intended to apply to bombs, projectiles, or other heavily encased
explosives.
(vii) Except as provided in subdivision (viii) of this subparagraph,
class II magazines shall be located in conformity with Table H-21, but
may be permitted in warehouses and in wholesale and retail
establishments when located on a floor which has an entrance at outside
grade level and the magazine is located not more than 10 feet from such
an entrance. Two class II magazines may be located in the same building
when one is used only for blasting caps in quantities not in excess of
5,000 caps and a distance of 10 feet is maintained between magazines.
[[Page 282]]
(viii) When used for temporary storage at a site for blasting
operations, class II magazines shall be located away from other
magazines. A distance of at least one hundred and fifty (150) feet shall
be maintained between class II magazines and the work in progress when
the quantity of explosives kept therein is in excess of 25 pounds, and
at least 50 feet when the quantity of explosives is 25 pounds, or less.
(ix) This paragraph (c) does not apply to:
(a) Stocks of small arms ammunition, propellant-actuated power
cartridges, small arms ammunition primers in quantities of less than
750,000, or of smokeless propellants in quantities less than 750 pounds;
(b) Explosive-actuated power devices when in quantities less than 50
pounds net weight of explosives;
(c) Fuse lighters and fuse igniters;
(d) Safety fuses other than cordeau detonant fuses.
(2) Construction of magazines--general. (i) Magazines shall be
constructed in conformity with the provisions of this paragraph.
(ii) Magazines for the storage of explosives, other than black
powder, Class B and Class C explosives shall be bullet resistant,
weather resistant, fire resistant, and ventilated sufficiently to
protect the explosive in the specific locality. Magazines used only for
storage of black powder, Class B and Class C explosives shall be weather
resistant, fire-resistant, and have ventilation. Magazines for storage
of blasting and electric blasting caps shall be weather resistant, fire-
resistant, and ventilated.
(iii) Property upon which Class I magazines are located and property
where Class II magazines are located outside of buildings shall be
posted with signs reading ``Explosives--Keep Off.''
(iv) Magazines requiring heat shall be heated by either hot-water
radiant heating with the magazine building; or air directed into the
magazine building over either hot water or low pressure steam (15
p.s.i.g.) coils located outside the magazine building.
(v) The magazine heating systems shall meet the following
requirements:
(a) The radiant heating coils within the building shall be installed
in such a manner that the explosives or explosives containers cannot
contact the coils and air is free to circulate between the coils and the
explosives or explosives containers.
(b) The heating ducts shall be installed in such a manner that the
hot-air discharge from the duct is not directed against the explosives
or explosives containers.
(c) The heating device used in connection with a magazine shall have
controls which prevent the ambient building temperature from exceeding
130 [deg]F.
(d) The electric fan or pump used in the heating system for a
magazine shall be mounted outside and separate from the wall of the
magazine and shall be grounded.
(e) The electric fan motor and the controls for electrical heating
devices used in heating water or steam shall have overloads and
disconnects, which comply with subpart S of this part. All electrical
switch gear shall be located a minimum distance of 25 feet from the
magazine.
(f) The heating source for water or steam shall be separated from
the magazine by a distance of not less than 25 feet when electrical and
50 feet when fuel fired. The area between the heating unit and the
magazine shall be cleared of all combustible materials.
(g) The storage of explosives and explosives containers in the
magazine shall allow uniform air circulation so product temperature
uniformity can be maintained.
(vi) When lights are necessary inside the magazine, electric safety
flashlight, or electric safety lanterns shall be used.
(3) Construction of Class I magazines. (i) Class I magazines shall
be of masonry construction or of wood or of metal construction, or a
combination of these types. Thickness of masonry units shall not be less
than 8 inches. Hollow masonry units used in construction required to be
bullet resistant shall have all hollow spaces filled with weak cement or
well-tamped sand. Wood constructed walls, required to be bullet
resistant, shall have at least a 6-
[[Page 283]]
inch space between interior and exterior sheathing and the space between
sheathing shall be filled with well-tamped sand. Metal wall
construction, when required to be bullet resistant, shall be lined with
brick at least 4 inches in thickness or shall have at least a 6-inch
sandfill between interior and exterior walls.
(ii) Floors and roofs of masonry magazines may be of wood
construction. Wood floors shall be tongue and grooved lumber having a
nominal thickness of 1 inch.
(iii) Roofs required to be bullet resistant shall be protected by a
sand tray located at the line of eaves and covering the entire area
except that necessary for ventilation. Sand in the sand tray shall be
maintained at a depth of not less than 4 inches.
(iv) All wood at the exterior of magazines, including eaves, shall
be protected by being covered with black or galvanized steel or aluminum
metal of thickness of not less than No. 26 gage. All nails exposed to
the interior of magazines shall be well countersunk.
(v) Foundations for magazines shall be of substantial construction
and arranged to provide good cross ventilation.
(vi) Magazines shall be ventilated sufficiently to prevent dampness
and heating of stored explosives. Ventilating openings shall be screened
to prevent the entrance of sparks.
(vii) Openings to magazines shall be restricted to that necessary
for the placement and removal of stocks of explosives. Doors for
openings in magazines for Class A explosives shall be bullet resistant.
Doors for magazines not required to be bullet resistant shall be
designed to prevent unauthorized entrance to the magazine.
(viii) [Reserved]
(ix) Provisions shall be made to prevent the piling of stocks of
explosives directly against masonry walls, brick-lined or sand-filled
metal walls and single-thickness metal walls; such protection, however,
shall not interfere with proper ventilation at the interior of side and
end walls.
(4) Construction of Class II magazines. (i) Class II magazines shall
be of wood or metal construction, or a combination thereof.
(ii) Wood magazines of this class shall have sides, bottom, and
cover constructed of 2-inch hardwood boards well braced at corners and
protected by being entirely covered with sheet metal of not less than
No. 20 gage. All nails exposed to the interior of the magazine shall be
well countersunk. All metal magazines of this class shall have sides,
bottom, and cover constructed of sheet metal, and shall be lined with
three-eighths-inch plywood or equivalent. Edges of metal covers shall
overlap sides at least 1 inch.
(iii) Covers for both wood- and metal-constructed magazines of this
class shall be provided with substantial strap hinges and shall be
provided with substantial means for locking.
(iv) Magazines of this class shall be painted red and shall bear
lettering in white, on all sides and top, at least 3 inches high,
``Explosives--Keep Fire Away.'' Class II magazines when located in
warehouses, and in wholesale and retail establishments shall be provided
with substantial wheels or casters to facilitate easy removal in the
case of fire. Where necessary due to climatic conditions, Class II
magazines shall be ventilated.
(5) Storage within magazines. (i) Packages of explosives shall be
laid flat with top side up. Black powder when stored in magazines with
other explosives shall be stored separately. Black powder stored in kegs
shall be stored on ends, bungs down, or on side, seams down.
Corresponding grades and brands shall be stored together in such a
manner that brands and grade marks show. All stocks shall be stored so
as to be easily counted and checked. Packages of explosives shall be
piled in a stable manner. When any kind of explosive is removed from a
magazine for use, the oldest explosive of that particular kind shall
always be taken first.
(ii) Packages of explosives shall not be unpacked or repacked in a
magazine nor within 50 feet of a magazine or in close proximity to other
explosives. Tools used for opening packages of explosives shall be
constructed of nonsparking materials, except that metal slitters may be
used for opening fiberboard boxes. A wood wedge and a fiber, rubber, or
wood mallet shall be used for opening or closing wood packages of
[[Page 284]]
explosives. Opened packages of explosives shall be securely closed
before being returned to a magazine.
(iii) Magazines shall not be used for the storage of any metal tools
nor any commodity except explosives, but this restriction shall not
apply to the storage of blasting agents and blasting supplies.
(iv) Magazine floors shall be regularly swept, kept clean, dry, free
of grit, paper, empty used packages, and rubbish. Brooms and other
cleaning utensils shall not have any spark-producing metal parts.
Sweepings from floors of magazines shall be properly disposed of.
Magazine floors stained with nitroglycerin shall be cleaned according to
instructions by the manufacturer.
(v) When any explosive has deteriorated to an extent that it is in
an unstable or dangerous condition, or if nitroglycerin leaks from any
explosives, then the person in possession of such explosive shall
immediately proceed to destroy such explosive in accordance with the
instructions of the manufacturer. Only experienced persons shall be
allowed to do the work of destroying explosives.
(vi) When magazines need inside repairs, all explosives shall be
removed therefrom and the floors cleaned. In making outside repairs, if
there is a possibility of causing sparks or fire the explosives shall be
removed from the magazine. Explosives removed from a magazine under
repair shall either be placed in another magazine or placed a safe
distance from the magazine where they shall be properly guarded and
protected until repairs have been completed, when they shall be returned
to the magazine.
(vii) Smoking, matches, open flames, spark-producing devices, and
firearms (except firearms carried by guards) shall not be permitted
inside of or within 50 feet of magazines. The land surrounding a
magazine shall be kept clear of all combustible materials for a distance
of at least 25 feet. Combustible materials shall not be stored within 50
feet of magazines.
(viii) Magazines shall be in the charge of a competent person at all
times and who shall be held responsible for the enforcement of all
safety precautions.
(ix) Explosives recovered from blasting misfires shall be placed in
a separate magazine until competent personnel has determined from the
manufacturer the method of disposal. Caps recovered from blasting
misfires shall not be reused. Such explosives and caps shall then be
disposed of in the manner recommended by the manufacturer.
(d) Transportation of explosives--(1) General provisions. (i) No
employee shall be allowed to smoke, carry matches or any other flame-
producing device, or carry any firearms or loaded cartridges while in or
near a motor vehicle transporting explosives; or drive, load, or unload
such vehicle in a careless or reckless manner.
(ii) [Reserved]
(iii) Explosives shall not be transferred from one vehicle to
another within the confines of any jurisdiction (city, county, State, or
other area) without informing the fire and police departments thereof.
In the event of breakdown or collision the local fire and police
departments shall be promptly notified to help safeguard such
emergencies. Explosives shall be transferred from the disabled vehicle
to another only, when proper and qualified supervision is provided.
(iv) Blasting caps or electric blasting caps shall not be
transported over the highways on the same vehicles with other
explosives, unless packaged, segregated, and transported in accordance
with the Department of Transportation's Hazardous Materials Regulations
(49 CFR parts 177-180).
(2) Transportation vehicles. (i) Vehicles used for transporting
explosives shall be strong enough to carry the load without difficulty
and be in good mechanical condition. If vehicles do not have a closed
body, the body shall be covered with a flameproof and moistureproof
tarpaulin or other effective protection against moisture and sparks. All
vehicles used for the transportation of explosives shall have tight
floors and any exposed spark-producing metal on the inside of the body
shall be covered with wood or other nonsparking materials to prevent
contact with packages of explosives. Packages
[[Page 285]]
of explosives shall not be loaded above the sides of an open-body
vehicle.
(ii) Every vehicle used for transporting explosives and oxidizing
materials listed in paragraph (d)(2)(ii)(a) of this section shall be
marked as follows:
(a) Exterior markings or placards required on applicable vehicles
shall be as follows for the various classes of commodities:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commodity Type of marking or placard
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Explosives, Class A, any quantity or a Explosives A (Red letters on
combination of Class A and Class B white background).
explosives.
Explosives, Class B, and quantity......... Explosives B (Red letters on
white background).
Oxidizing material (blasting agents, Oxidizers (Yellow letters on
ammonium nitrate, etc.), 1,000 pounds or black background).
more gross weight.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(b) [Reserved]
(c) Such markings or placards shall be displayed at the front, rear,
and on each side of the motor vehicle or trailer, or other cargo
carrying body while it contains explosives or other dangerous articles
of such type and in such quantity as specified in paragraph
(d)(1)(ii)(a) of this subdivision. The front marking or placard may be
displayed on the front of either the truck, truck body, truck tractor or
the trailer.
(d) Any motor vehicle, trailer, or other cargo-carrying body
containing more than one kind of explosive as well as an oxidizing
material requiring a placard under the provisions of paragraph
(d)(2)(ii)(a), the aggregate gross weight of which totals 1,000 pounds
or more, shall be marked or placarded ``Dangerous'' as well as
``Explosive A'' or ``Explosive B'' as appropriate. If explosives Class A
and explosives Class B are loaded on the same vehicle, the ``Explosives
B'' marking need not be displayed.
(e) In any combination of two or more vehicles containing explosives
or other dangerous articles each vehicle shall be marked or placarded as
to its contents and in accordance with paragraphs (d)(2)(ii) (a) and (c)
of this subdivision.
(iii) Each motor vehicle used for transporting explosives shall be
equipped with a minimum of two extinguishers, each having a rating of at
least 10-BC.
(a) Only extinguishers listed or approved by a nationally recognized
testing laboratory shall be deemed suitable for use on explosives-
carrying vehicles. Refer to Sec. 1910.155(c)(3)(iv)(A) for definition
of listed, and Sec. 1910.7 for nationally recognized testing
laboratory.
(b) Extinguishers shall be filled and ready for immediate use and
located near the driver's seat. Extinguishers shall be examined
periodically by a competent person.
(iv) A motor vehicle used for transporting explosives shall be given
the following inspection to determine that it is in proper condition for
safe transportation of explosives:
(a) Fire extinguishers shall be filled and in working order.
(b) All electrical wiring shall be completely protected and securely
fastened to prevent short-circuiting.
(c) Chassis, motor, pan, and underside of body shall be reasonably
clean and free of excess oil and grease.
(d) Fuel tank and feedline shall be secure and have no leaks.
(e) Brakes, lights, horn, windshield wipers, and steering apparatus
shall function properly.
(f) Tires shall be checked for proper inflation and defects.
(g) The vehicle shall be in proper condition in every other respect
and acceptable for handling explosives.
(3) Operation of transportation vehicles. (i) Vehicles transporting
explosives shall only be driven by and be in the charge of a driver who
is familiar with the traffic regulations, State laws, and the provisions
of this section.
(ii) Except under emergency conditions, no vehicle transporting
explosives shall be parked before reaching its destination, even though
attended, on any public street adjacent to or in proximity to any place
where people work.
(iii) Every motor vehicle transporting any quantity of Class A or
Class B explosives shall, at all times, be attended by a driver or other
attendant of the motor carrier. This attendant shall have been made
aware of the class of the explosive material in the vehicle and of its
inherent dangers, and shall have been instructed in the
[[Page 286]]
measures and procedures to be followed in order to protect the public
from those dangers. He shall have been made familiar with the vehicle he
is assigned, and shall be trained, supplied with the necessary means,
and authorized to move the vehicle when required.
(a) For the purpose of this subdivision, a motor vehicle shall be
deemed ``attended'' only when the driver or other attendant is
physically on or in the vehicle, or has the vehicle within his field of
vision and can reach it quickly and without any kind of interference
``attended'' also means that the driver or attendant is awake, alert,
and not engaged in other duties or activities which may divert his
attention from the vehicle, except for necessary communication with
public officers, or representatives of the carrier shipper, or
consignee, or except for necessary absence from the vehicle to obtain
food or to provide for his physical comfort.
(b) However, an explosive-laden vehicle may be left unattended if
parked within a securely fenced or walled area with all gates or
entrances locked where parking of such vehicle is otherwise permissible,
or at a magazine site established solely for the purpose of storing
explosives.
(iv) No spark-producing metal, spark-producing metal tools, oils,
matches, firearms, electric storage batteries, flammable substances,
acids, oxidizing materials, or corrosive compounds shall be carried in
the body of any motor truck and/or vehicle transporting explosives,
unless the loading of such dangerous articles and the explosives comply
with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.
(v) Vehicles transporting explosives shall avoid congested areas and
heavy traffic. Where routes through congested areas have been designated
by local authorities such routes shall be followed.
(vi) Delivery shall only be made to authorized persons and into
authorized magazines or authorized temporary storage or handling areas.
(e) Use of explosives and blasting agents--(1) General provisions.
(i) While explosives are being handled or used, smoking shall not be
permitted and no one near the explosives shall possess matches, open
light or other fire or flame. No person shall be allowed to handle
explosives while under the influence of intoxicating liquors, narcotics,
or other dangerous drugs.
(ii) Original containers or Class II magazines shall be used for
taking detonators and other explosives from storage magazines to the
blasting area.
(iii) When blasting is done in congested areas or in close proximity
to a structure, or any other installation that may be damaged, the blast
shall be covered before firing with a mat constructed so that it is
capable of preventing fragments from being thrown.
(iv) Persons authorized to prepare explosive charges or conduct
blasting operations shall use every reasonable precaution, including but
not limited to warning signals, flags, barricades, or woven wire mats to
insure the safety of the general public and workmen.
(v) Blasting operations shall be conducted during daylight hours.
(vi) Whenever blasting is being conducted in the vicinity of gas,
electric, water, fire alarm, telephone, telegraph, and steam utilities,
the blaster shall notify the appropriate representatives of such
utilities at least 24 hours in advance of blasting, specifying the
location and intended time of such blasting. Verbal notice shall be
confirmed with written notice.
(vii) Due precautions shall be taken to prevent accidental discharge
of electric blasting caps from current induced by radar, radio
transmitters, lightning, adjacent powerlines, dust storms, or other
sources of extraneous electricity. These precautions shall include:
(a) The suspension of all blasting operations and removal of persons
from the blasting area during the approach and progress of an electric
storm.
(b) The posting of signs warning against the use of mobile radio
transmitters on all roads within 350 feet of the blasting operations.
(2) Storage at use sites. (i) Empty containers and paper and fiber
packing materials which have previously contained explosive materials
shall be disposed of in a safe manner, or reused in accordance with the
Department of Transportation's Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR
parts 177-180).
(ii) Containers of explosives shall not be opened in any magazine or
within 50
[[Page 287]]
feet of any magazine. In opening kegs or wooden cases, no sparking metal
tools shall be used; wooden wedges and either wood, fiber or rubber
mallets shall be used. Nonsparking metallic slitters may be used for
opening fiberboard cases.
(iii) Explosives or blasting equipment that are obviously
deteriorated or damaged shall not be used.
(iv) No explosives shall be abandoned.
(3) Loading of explosives in blast holes. (i) All drill holes shall
be sufficiently large to admit freely the insertion of the cartridges of
explosives.
(ii) Tamping shall be done only with wood rods without exposed metal
parts, but nonsparking metal connectors may be used for jointed poles.
Violent tamping shall be avoided. Primed cartridges shall not be tamped.
(iii) When loading blasting agents pneumatically over electric
blasting caps, semiconductive delivery hose shall be used and the
equipment shall be bonded and grounded.
(iv) No holes shall be loaded except those to be fired in the next
round of blasting. After loading, all remaining explosives shall be
immediately returned to an authorized magazine.
(v) Drilling shall not be started until all remaining butts of old
holes are examined with a wooden stick for unexploded charges, and if
any are found, they shall be refired before work proceeds.
(vi) No person shall be allowed to deepen drill holes which have
contained explosives.
(vii) After loading for a blast is completed, all excess blasting
caps or electric blasting caps and other explosives shall immediately be
returned to their separate storage magazines.
(4) Initiation of explosive charges.
(i) [Reserved]
(ii) When fuse is used, the blasting cap shall be securely attached
to the safety fuse with a standard-ring type cap crimper. All primers
shall be assembled at least 50 feet from any magazine.
(iii) Primers shall be made up only as required for each round of
blasting.
(iv) No blasting cap shall be inserted in the explosives without
first making a hole in the cartridge for the cap with a wooden punch of
proper size or standard cap crimper.
(v) Explosives shall not be extracted from a hole that has once been
charged or has misfired unless it is impossible to detonate the
unexploded charge by insertion of a fresh additional primer.
(vi) If there are any misfires while using cap and fuse, all persons
shall be required to remain away from the charge for at least 1 hour. If
electric blasting caps are used and a misfire occurs, this waiting
period may be reduced to 30 minutes. Misfires shall be handled under the
direction of the person in charge of the blasting and all wires shall be
carefully traced and search made for unexploded charges.
(vii) Blasters, when testing circuits to charged holes, shall use
only blasting galvanometers designed for this purpose.
(viii) Only the employee making leading wire connections in
electrical firing shall be allowed to fire the shot. Leading wires shall
remain shorted and not be connected to the blasting machine or other
source of current until the charge is to be fired.
(5) Warning required. Before a blast is fired, the employer shall
require that a loud warning signal be given by the person in charge, who
has made certain that all surplus explosives are in a safe place, all
persons and vehicles are at a safe distance or under sufficient cover,
and that an adequate warning has been given.
(f) Explosives at piers, railway stations, and cars or vessels not
otherwise specified in this standard--(1) Railway cars. Except in an
emergency and with permission of the local authority, no person shall
have or keep explosives in a railway car unless said car and contents
and methods of loading are in accordance with the U.S. Department of
Transportation Regulations for the Transportation of Explosives, 49 CFR
chapter I.
(2) Packing and marking. No person shall deliver any explosive to
any carrier unless such explosive conforms in all respects, including
marking and packing, to the U.S. Department of Transportation
Regulations for the Transportation of Explosives.
(3) Marking cars. Every railway car containing explosives which has
[[Page 288]]
reached its designation, or is stopped in transit so as no longer to be
in interstate commerce, shall have attached to both sides and ends of
the car, cards with the words ``Explosives--Handle Carefully--Keep Fire
Away'' in red letters at least 1\1/2\ inches high on a white background.
(4) Storage. Any explosives at a railway facility, truck terminal,
pier, wharf harbor facility, or airport terminal whether for delivery to
a consignee, or forwarded to some other destination shall be kept in a
safe place, isolated as far as practicable and in such manner that they
can be easily and quickly removed.
(5) Hours of transfer. Explosives shall not be delivered to or
received from any railway station, truck terminal, pier, wharf, harbor
facility, or airport terminal between the hours of sunset and sunrise.
(g) Blasting agents--(1) General. Unless otherwise set forth in this
paragraph, blasting agents, excluding water gels, shall be transported,
stored, and used in the same manner as explosives. Water gels are
covered in paragraph (h) of this section.
(2) Fixed location mixing. (i) [Reserved]
(ii) Buildings used for the mixing of blasting agents shall conform
to the requirements of this section.
(a) Buildings shall be of noncombustible construction or sheet metal
on wood studs.
(b) Floors in a mixing plant shall be of concrete or of other
nonabsorbent materials.
(c) All fuel oil storage facilities shall be separated from the
mixing plant and located in such a manner that in case of tank rupture,
the oil will drain away from the mixing plant building.
(d) The building shall be well ventilated.
(e) Heating units which do not depend on combustion processes, when
properly designed and located, may be used in the building. All direct
sources of heat shall be provided exclusively from units located outside
the mixing building.
(f) All internal-combustion engines used for electric power
generation shall be located outside the mixing plant building, or shall
be properly ventilated and isolated by a firewall. The exhaust systems
on all such engines shall be located so any spark emission cannot be a
hazard to any materials in or adjacent to the plant.
(iii) Equipment used for mixing blasting agents shall conform to the
requirements of this subdivision.
(a) The design of the mixer shall minimize the possibility of
frictional heating, compaction, and especially confinement. All bearings
and drive assemblies shall be mounted outside the mixer and protected
against the accumulation of dust. All surfaces shall be accessible for
cleaning.
(b) Mixing and packaging equipment shall be constructed of materials
compatible with the fuel-ammonium nitrate composition.
(c) Suitable means shall be provided to prevent the flow of fuel oil
to the mixer in case of fire. In gravity flow systems an automatic
spring-loaded shutoff valve with fusible link shall be installed.
(iv) The provisions of this subdivision shall be considered when
determining blasting agent compositions.
(a) The sensitivity of the blasting agent shall be determined by
means of a No. 8 test blasting cap at regular intervals and after every
change in formulation.
(b) Oxidizers of small particle size, such as crushed ammonium
nitrate prills or fines, may be more sensitive than coarser products and
shall, therefore, be handled with greater care.
(c) No hydrocarbon liquid fuel with flashpoint lower than that of
No. 2 diesel fuel oil 125 [deg]F. minimum shall be used.
(d) Crude oil and crankcase oil shall not be used.
(e) Metal powders such as aluminum shall be kept dry and shall be
stored in containers or bins which are moisture-resistant or
weathertight. Solid fuels shall be used in such manner as to minimize
dust explosion hazards.
(f) Peroxides and chlorates shall not be used.
(v) All electrical switches, controls, motors, and lights located in
the mixing room shall conform to the requirements in subpart S of this
part for Class II, Division 2 locations; otherwise
[[Page 289]]
they shall be located outside the mixing room. The frame of the mixer
and all other equipment that may be used shall be electrically bonded
and be provided with a continuous path to the ground.
(vi) Safety precautions at mixing plants shall include the
requirements of this subdivision.
(a) Floors shall be constructed so as to eliminate floor drains and
piping into which molten materials could flow and be confined in case of
fire.
(b) The floors and equipment of the mixing and packaging room shall
be cleaned regularly and thoroughly to prevent accumulation of oxidizers
or fuels and other sensitizers.
(c) The entire mixing and packaging plant shall be cleaned regularly
and thoroughly to prevent excessive accumulation of dust.
(d) Smoking, matches, open flames, spark-producing devices, and
firearms (except firearms carried by guards) shall not be permitted
inside of or within 50 feet of any building or facility used for the
mixing of blasting agents.
(e) The land surrounding the mixing plant shall be kept clear of
brush, dried grass, leaves, and other materials for a distance of at
least 25 feet.
(f) Empty ammonium nitrate bags shall be disposed of daily in a safe
manner.
(g) No welding shall be permitted or open flames used in or around
the mixing or storage area of the plant unless the equipment or area has
been completely washed down and all oxidizer material removed.
(h) Before welding or repairs to hollow shafts, all oxidizer
material shall be removed from the outside and inside of the shaft and
the shaft vented with a minimum one-half inch diameter opening.
(i) Explosives shall not be permitted inside of or within 50 feet of
any building or facility used for the mixing of blasting agents.
(3) Bulk delivery and mixing vehicles. (i) The provisions of this
paragraph shall apply to off-highway private operations as well as to
all public highway movements.
(ii) A bulk vehicle body for delivering and mixing blasting agents
shall conform with the requirements of this paragraph (ii).
(a) The body shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.
(b) Vehicles used to transport bulk premixed blasting agents on
public highways shall have closed bodies.
(c) All moving parts of the mixing system shall be designed as to
prevent a heat buildup. Shafts or axles which contact the product shall
have outboard bearings with 1-inch minimum clearance between the
bearings and the outside of the product container. Particular attention
shall be given to the clearances on all moving parts.
(d) A bulk delivery vehicle shall be strong enough to carry the load
without difficulty and be in good mechanical condition.
(iii) Operation of bulk delivery vehicles shall conform to the
requirements of this subdivision. These include the placarding
requirements as specified by Department of Transportation.
(a) The operator shall be trained in the safe operation of the
vehicle together with its mixing, conveying, and related equipment. The
employer shall assure that the operator is familiar with the commodities
being delivered and the general procedure for handling emergency
situations.
(b) The hauling of either blasting caps or other explosives but not
both, shall be permitted on bulk trucks provided that a special wood or
nonferrous-lined container is installed for the explosives. Such
blasting caps or other explosives shall be in DOT-specified shipping
containers: see 49 CFR chapter I.
(c) No person shall smoke, carry matches or any flame-producing
device, or carry any firearms while in or about bulk vehicles effecting
the mixing transfer or down-the-hole loading of blasting agents at or
near the blasting site.
(d) Caution shall be exercised in the movement of the vehicle in the
blasting area to avoid driving the vehicle over or dragging hoses over
firing lines, cap wires, or explosive materials. The employer shall
assure that the driver, in moving the vehicle, has assistance of a
second person to guide his movements.
[[Page 290]]
(e) No intransit mixing of materials shall be performed.
(iv) Pneumatic loading from bulk delivery vehicles into blastholes
primed with electric blasting caps or other static-sensitive systems
shall conform to the requirements of this subdivision.
(a) A positive grounding device shall be used to prevent the
accumulation of static electricity.
(b) A discharge hose shall be used that has a resistance range that
will prevent conducting stray currents, but that is conductive enough to
bleed off static buildup.
(c) A qualified person shall evaluate all systems to determine if
they will adequately dissipate static under potential field conditions.
(v) Repairs to bulk delivery vehicles shall conform to the
requirements of this section.
(a) No welding or open flames shall be used on or around any part of
the delivery equipment unless it has been completely washed down and all
oxidizer material removed.
(b) Before welding or making repairs to hollow shafts, the shaft
shall be thoroughly cleaned inside and out and vented with a minimum
one-half-inch diameter opening.
(4) Bulk storage bins. (i) The bin, including supports, shall be
constructed of compatible materials, waterproof, and adequately
supported and braced to withstand the combination of all loads including
impact forces arising from product movement within the bin and
accidental vehicle contact with the support legs.
(ii) The bin discharge gate shall be designed to provide a closure
tight enough to prevent leakage of the stored product. Provision shall
also be made so that the gate can be locked.
(iii) Bin loading manways or access hatches shall be hinged or
otherwise attached to the bin and be designed to permit locking.
(iv) Any electrically driven conveyors for loading or unloading bins
shall conform to the requirements of subpart S of this part. They shall
be designed to minimize damage from corrosion.
(v) Bins containing blasting agent shall be located, with respect to
inhabited buildings, passenger railroads, and public highways, in
accordance with Table-21 and separation from other blasting agent
storage and explosives storage shall be in conformity with Table H-22.
(vi) Bins containing ammonium nitrate shall be separated from
blasting agent storage and explosives storage in conformity with Table
H-22.
Table H-22--Table of Recommended Separation Distances of Ammonium
Nitrate and Blasting Agents From Explosives or Blasting Agents 1 6
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donor weight Minimum separation distance
-------------------------- of receptor when barricaded Minimum
\2\ (ft.) thickness of
Pounds not ------------------------------ artificial
Pounds over over Ammonium Blasting barricades \5\
nitrate \3\ agent \4\ (in.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 3 11 12
100 300 4 14 12
300 600 5 18 12
600 1,000 6 22 12
1,000 1,600 7 25 12
1,600 2,000 8 29 12
2,000 3,000 9 32 15
3,000 4,000 10 36 15
4,000 6,000 11 40 15
6,000 8,000 12 43 20
8,000 10,000 13 47 20
10,000 12,000 14 50 20
12,000 16,000 15 54 25
16,000 20,000 16 58 25
20,000 25,000 18 65 25
25,000 30,000 19 68 30
30,000 35,000 20 72 30
35,000 40,000 21 76 30
40,000 45,000 22 79 35
45,000 50,000 23 83 35
50,000 55,000 24 86 35
55,000 60,000 25 90 35
60,000 70,000 26 94 40
70,000 80,000 28 101 40
80,000 90,000 30 108 40
90,000 100,000 32 115 40
100,000 120,000 34 122 50
120,000 140,000 37 133 50
140,000 160,000 40 144 50
160,000 180,000 44 158 50
180,000 200,000 48 173 50
200,000 220,000 52 187 60
220,000 250,000 56 202 60
250,000 275,000 60 216 60
275,000 300,000 64 230 60
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ These distances apply to the separation of stores only. Table H-21
shall be used in determining separation distances from inhabited
buildings, passenger railways, and public highways.
\2\ When the ammonium nitrate and/or blasting agent is not barricaded,
the distances shown in the table shall be multiplied by six. These
distances allow for the possibility of high velocity metal fragments
from mixers, hoppers, truck bodies, sheet metal structures, metal
container, and the like which may enclose the ``donor''. Where storage
is in bullet-resistant magazines recommended for explosives or where
the storage is protected by a bullet-resistant wall, distances, and
barricade thicknesses in excess of those prescribed in Table H-21 are
not required.
[[Page 291]]
\3\ The distances in the table apply to ammonium nitrate that passes the
insensitivity test prescribed in the definition of ammonium nitrate
fertilizer promulgated by the National Plant Food Institute*; and
ammonium nitrate failing to pass said test shall be stored at
separation distances determined by competent persons. (*Definition and
Test Procedures for Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer, National Plant Food
Institute, November 1964.)
\4\ These distances apply to nitro-carbo-nitrates and blasting agents
which pass the insensitivity test prescribed in the U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) regulations.
\5\ Earth, or sand dikes, or enclosures filled with the prescribed
minimum thickness of earth or sand are acceptable artificial
barricades. Natural barricades, such as hills or timber of sufficient
density that the surrounding exposures which require protection cannot
be seen from the ``donor'' when the trees are bare of leaves, are also
acceptable.
\6\ When the ammonium nitrate must be counted in determining the
distances to be maintained from inhabited buildings, passenger
railways and public highways, it may be counted at one-half its actual
weight because its blast effect is lower.
Note 7: Guide to use of table of recommended separation distances of
ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting
agents.
(a) Sketch location of all potential donor and acceptor materials
together with the maximum mass of material to be allowed in that
vicinity. (Potential donors are high explosives, blasting agents, and
combination of masses of detonating materials. Potential acceptors are
high explosives, blasting agents, and ammonium nitrate.)
(b) Consider separately each donor mass in combination with each
acceptor mass. If the masses are closer than table allowance
(distances measured between nearest edges), the combination of masses
becomes a new potential donor of weight equal to the total mass. When
individual masses are considered as donors, distances to potential
acceptors shall be measured between edges. When combined masses within
propagating distance of each other are considered as a donor, the
appropriate distance to the edge of potential acceptors shall be
computed as a weighted distance from the combined masses.
Calculation of weighted distance from combined masses:
Let M2, M3 . . . Mn be donor masses to be combined.
M1 is a potential acceptor mass.
D12 is distance from M1 to M2 (edge to edge).
D13 is distance from M1 to M3 (edge to edge), etc.
To find weighted distance [D1(2,3 . . . n)] from combined masses to M1,
add the products of the individual masses and distances and divide the
total by the sum of the masses thus:
D1(2, 3 . . . n)=M2xD12+M3xD12 . . . +MnxD12M2+M3 . . . +Mn
Propagation is possible if either an individual donor mass is less than
the tabulated distance from an acceptor or a combined mass is less
than the weighted distance from an acceptor.
(c) In determining the distances separating highways, railroads, and
inhabited buildings from potential explosions (as prescribed in Table
H-21), the sum of all masses which may propagate (i.e., lie at
distances less than prescribed in the Table) from either individual or
combined donor masses are included. However, when the ammonium nitrate
must be included, only 50 percent of its weight shall be used because
of its reduced blast effects. In applying Table H-21 to distances from
highways, railroads, and inhabited buildings, distances are measured
from the nearest edge of potentially explodable material as prescribed
in Table H-21, Note 5.
(d) When all or part of a potential acceptor comprises Explosives Class
A as defined in DOT regulations, storage in bullet-resistant magazines
is required. Safe distances to stores in bullet-resistant magazines
may be obtained from the intermagazine distances prescribed in Table H-
21.
(e) Barricades must not have line-of-sight openings between potential
donors and acceptors which permit blast or missiles to move directly
between masses.
(f) Good housekeeping practices shall be maintained around any bin
containing ammonium nitrate or blasting agent. This includes keeping
weeds and other combustible materials cleared within 25 feet of such
bin. Accumulation of spilled product on the ground shall be prevented.
(5) Storage of blasting agents and supplies. (i) Blasting agents and
oxidizers used for mixing of blasting agents shall be stored in the
manner set forth in this subdivision.
(a) Blasting agents or ammonium nitrate, when stored in conjunction
with explosives, shall be stored in the manner set forth in paragraph
(c) of this section for explosives. The mass of blasting agents and one-
half the mass of ammonium nitrate shall be included when computing the
total quantity of explosives for determining distance requirements.
(b) Blasting agents, when stored entirely separate from explosives,
may be stored in the manner set forth in paragraph (c) of this section
or in one-story warehouses (without basements) which shall be:
(1) Noncombustible or fire resistive;
(2) Constructed so as to eliminate open floor drains and piping into
which molten materials could flow and be confined in case of fire;
(3) Weather resistant;
(4) Well ventilated; and
(5) Equipped with a strong door kept securely locked except when
open for business.
(c) Semitrailer or full-trailer vans used for highway or onsite
transportation of the blasting agents are satisfactory for temporarily
storing these materials, provided they are located in accordance with
Table H-22 with respect to one another. Trailers shall be provided with
substantial means for locking, and the trailer doors shall be kept
locked, except during the time of placement and removal of stocks of
blasting agents.
(ii) Warehouses used for the storage of blasting agents separate
from explosives shall be located as set forth in this subdivision.
(a) Warehouses used for the storage of blasting agents shall be
located in Table H-22 with respect to one another.
(b) If both blasting agents and ammonium nitrate are handled or
stored within the distance limitations prescribed through paragraph
(g)(2) of this section, one-half the mass of the ammonium nitrate shall
be added to the mass of the blasting agent when computing the total
quantity of explosives for determining the proper distance for
compliance with Table H-21.
(iii) Smoking, matches, open flames, spark producing devices, and
firearms
[[Page 292]]
are prohibited inside of or within 50 feet of any warehouse used for the
storage of blasting agents. Combustible materials shall not be stored
within 50 feet of warehouses used for the storage of blasting agents.
(iv) The interior of warehouses used for the storage of blasting
agents shall be kept clean and free from debris and empty containers.
Spilled materials shall be cleaned up promptly and safely removed.
Combustible materials, flammable liquids, corrosive acids, chlorates, or
nitrates shall not be stored in any warehouse used for blasting agents
unless separated therefrom by a fire resistive separation of not less
than 1 hour resistance. The provisions of this subdivision shall not
prohibit the storage of blasting agents together with nonexplosive
blasting supplies.
(v) Piles of ammonium nitrate and warehouses containing ammonium
nitrate shall be adequately separated from readily combustible fuels.
(vi) Caked oxidizers, either in bags or in bulk, shall not be
loosened by blasting.
(vii) Every warehouse used for the storage of blasting agents shall
be under the supervision of a competent person.
(6) Transportation of packaged blasting agents. (i) When blasting
agents are transported in the same vehicle with explosives, all of the
requirements of paragraph (d) of this section shall be complied with.
(ii) Vehicles transporting blasting agents shall only be driven by
and be in charge of a driver in possession of a valid motor vehicle
operator's license. Such a person shall also be familiar with the
State's vehicle and traffic laws.
(iii) No matches, firearms, acids, or other corrosive liquids shall
be carried in the bed or body of any vehicle containing blasting agents.
(iv) No person shall be permitted to ride upon, drive, load, or
unload a vehicle containing blasting agents while smoking or under the
influence of intoxicants, narcotics, or other dangerous drugs.
(v) [Reserved]
(vi) Vehicles transporting blasting agents shall be in safe
operating condition at all times.
(7) Use of blasting agents. Persons using blasting agents shall
comply with all of the applicable provisions of paragraph (e) of this
section.
(h) Water gel (Slurry) explosives and blasting agents--(1) General
provisions. Unless otherwise set forth in this paragraph, water gels
shall be transported, stored and used in the same manner as explosives
or blasting agents in accordance with the classification of the product.
(2) Types and classifications. (i) Water gels containing a substance
in itself classified as an explosive shall be classified as an explosive
and manufactured, transported, stored, and used as specified for
``explosives'' in this section, except as noted in subdivision (iv) of
this subparagraph.
(ii) Water gels containing no substance in itself classified as an
explosive and which are cap-sensitive as defined in paragraph (a) of
this section under Blasting Agent shall be classified as an explosive
and manufactured, transported, stored and used as specified for
``explosives'' in this section.
(iii) Water gels containing no substance in itself classified as an
explosive and which are not cap-sensitive as defined in paragraph (a) of
this section under Blasting Agent shall be classified as blasting agents
and manufactured, transported, stored, and used as specified for
``blasting agents'' in this section.
(iv) When tests on specific formulations of water gels result in
Department of Transportation classification as a Class B explosive,
bullet-resistant magazines are not required, see paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of
this section.
(3) Fixed location mixing.
(i) [Reserved]
(ii) Buildings used for the mixing of water gels shall conform to
the requirements of this subdivision.
(a) Buildings shall be of noncombustible construction or sheet metal
on wood studs.
(b) Floors in a mixing plant shall be of concrete or of other
nonabsorbent materials.
(c) Where fuel oil is used all fuel oil storage facilities shall be
separated from the mixing plant and located in
[[Page 293]]
such a manner that in case of tank rupture, the oil will drain away from
the mixing plant building.
(d) The building shall be well ventilated.
(e) Heating units that do not depend on combustion processes, when
properly designed and located, may be used in the building. All direct
sources of heat shall be provided exclusively from units located outside
of the mixing building.
(f) All internal-combustion engines used for electric power
generation shall be located outside the mixing plant building, or shall
be properly ventilated and isolated by a firewall. The exhaust systems
on all such engines shall be located so any spark emission cannot be a
hazard to any materials in or adjacent to the plant.
(iii) Ingredients of water gels shall conform to the requirements of
this subdivision.
(a) Ingredients in themselves classified as Class A or Class B
explosives shall be stored in conformity with paragraph (c) of this
section.
(b) Nitrate-water solutions may be stored in tank cars, tank trucks,
or fixed tanks without quantity or distance limitations. Spills or leaks
which may contaminate combustible materials shall be cleaned up
immediately.
(c) Metal powders such as aluminum shall be kept dry and shall be
stored in containers or bins which are moisture-resistant or
weathertight. Solid fuels shall be used in such manner as to minimize
dust explosion hazards.
(d) Ingredients shall not be stored with incompatible materials.
(e) Peroxides and chlorates shall not be used.
(iv) Mixing equipment shall comply with the requirements of this
subdivision.
(a) The design of the processing equipment, including mixing and
conveying equipment, shall be compatible with the relative sensitivity
of the materials being handled. Equipment shall be designed to minimize
the possibility of frictional heating, compaction, overloading, and
confinement.
(b) Both equipment and handling procedures shall be designed to
prevent the introduction of foreign objects or materials.
(c) Mixers, pumps, valves, and related equipment shall be designed
to permit regular and periodic flushing, cleaning, dismantling, and
inspection.
(d) All electrical equipment including wiring, switches, controls,
motors, and lights, shall conform to the requirements of subpart S of
this part.
(e) All electric motors and generators shall be provided with
suitable overload protection devices. Electrical generators, motors,
proportioning devices, and all other electrical enclosures shall be
electrically bonded. The grounding conductor to all such electrical
equipment shall be effectively bonded to the service-entrance ground
connection and to all equipment ground connections in a manner so as to
provide a continuous path to ground.
(v) Mixing facilities shall comply with the fire prevention
requirements of this subdivision.
(a) The mixing, loading, and ingredient transfer areas where
residues or spilled materials may accumulate shall be cleaned
periodically. A cleaning and collection system for dangerous residues
shall be provided. ,
(b) A daily visual inspection shall be made of mixing, conveying,
and electrical equipment to establish that such equipment is in good
operating condition. A program of systematic maintenance shall be
conducted on regular schedule.
(c) Heaters which are not dependent on the combustion process within
the heating unit may be used within the confines of processing
buildings, or compartments, if provided with temperature and safety
controls and located away from combustible materials and the finished
product.
(4) Bulk delivery and mixing vehicles. (i) The design of vehicles
shall comply with the requirements of this subdivision.
(a) Vehicles used over public highways for the bulk transportation
of water gels or of ingredients classified as dangerous commodities,
shall meet the requirements of the Department of Transportation and
shall meet the requirements of paragraphs (d) and (g)(6) of this
section.
(b) When electric power is supplied by a self-contained motor
generator located on the vehicle the generator
[[Page 294]]
shall be at a point separate from where the water gel is discharged.
(c) The design of processing equipment and general requirements
shall conform to subparagraphs (3) (iii) and (iv) of this paragraph.
(d) A positive action parking brake, which will set the wheel brakes
on at least one axle shall be provided on vehicles when equipped with
air brakes and shall be used during bulk delivery operations. Wheel
chocks shall supplement parking brakes whenever conditions may require.
(ii) Operation of bulk delivery and mixing vehicles shall comply
with the requirements of this subdivision.
(a) The placarding requirements contained in DOT regulations apply
to vehicles carrying water gel explosives or blasting agents.
(b) The operator shall be trained in the safe operation of the
vehicle together with its mixing, conveying, and related equipment. He
shall be familiar with the commodities being delivered and the general
procedure for handling emergency situations.
(c) The hauling of either blasting caps or other explosives, but not
both, shall be permitted on bulk trucks provided that a special wood or
nonferrous-lined container is installed for the explosives. Such
blasting caps or other explosives shall be in DOT-specified shipping
containers; see 49 CFR chapter I.
(d) No person shall be allowed to smoke, carry matches or any flame-
producing device, or carry any firearms while in or about bulk vehicles
effecting the mixing, transfer, or down-the-hole loading of water gels
at or near the blasting site.
(e) Caution shall be exercised in the movement of the vehicle in the
blasting area to avoid driving the vehicle over or dragging hoses over
firing lines, cap wires, or explosive materials. The employer shall
furnish the driver the assistance of a second person to guide the
driver's movements.
(f) No intransit mixing of materials shall be performed.
(g) The location chosen for water gel or ingredient transfer from a
support vehicle into the borehole loading vehicle shall be away from the
blasthole site when the boreholes are loaded or in the process of being
loaded.
(i) Storage of ammonium nitrate--(1) Scope and definitions. (i)(a)
Except as provided in paragraph (i)(1)(i)(d) of this paragraph applies
to the storage of ammonium nitrate in the form of crystals, flakes,
grains, or prills including fertilizer grade, dynamite grade, nitrous
oxide grade, technical grade, and other mixtures containing 60 percent
or more ammonium nitrate by weight but does not apply to blasting
agents.
(b) This paragraph does not apply to the transportation of ammonium
nitrate.
(c) This paragraph does not apply to storage under the jurisdiction
of and in compliance with the regulations of the U.S. Coast Guard (see
46 CFR parts 146-149).
(d) The storage of ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures
that are more sensitive than allowed by the ``Definition of Test
Procedures for Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer'' is prohibited.
(ii)(a) [Reserved]
(b) The standards for ammonium nitrate (nitrous oxide grade) are
those found in the ``Specifications, Properties, and Recommendations for
Packaging, Transportation, Storage, and Use of Ammonium Nitrate'',
available from the Compressed Gas Association, Inc., which is
incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6.
(2) General provisions. (i) This paragraph applies to all persons
storing, having, or keeping ammonium nitrate, and to the owner or lessee
of any building, premises, or structure in which ammonium nitrate is
stored in quantities of 1,000 pounds or more.
(ii) Approval of large quantity storage shall be subject to due
consideration of the fire and explosion hazards, including exposure to
toxic vapors from burning or decomposing ammonium nitrate.
(iii)(a) Storage buildings shall not have basements unless the
basements are open on at least one side. Storage buildings shall not be
over one story in height.
(b) Storage buildings shall have adequate ventilation or be of a
construction that will be self-ventilating in the event of fire.
[[Page 295]]
(c) The wall on the exposed side of a storage building within 50
feet of a combustible building, forest, piles of combustible materials
and similar exposure hazards shall be of fire-resistive construction. In
lieu of the fire-resistive wall, other suitable means of exposure
protection such as a free standing wall may be used. The roof coverings
shall be Class C or better, as defined in the Manual on Roof Coverings,
NFPA 203M-1970, which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec.
1910.6.
(d) All flooring in storage and handling areas, shall be of
noncombustible material or protected against impregnation by ammonium
nitrate and shall be without open drains, traps, tunnels, pits, or
pockets into which any molten ammonium nitrate could flow and be
confined in the event of fire.
(e) The continued use of an existing storage building or structure
not in strict conformity with this paragraph may be approved in cases
where such continued use will not constitute a hazard to life.
(f) Buildings and structures shall be dry and free from water
seepage through the roof, walls, and floors.
(3) Storage of ammonium nitrate in bags, drums, or other containers.
(i)(a) Bags and containers used for ammonium nitrate must comply with
specifications and standards required for use in interstate commerce
(see 49 CFR chapter I).
(b) Containers used on the premises in the actual manufacturing or
processing need not comply with provisions of paragraph (i)(3)(i)(a) of
this paragraph.
(ii)(a) Containers of ammonium nitrate shall not be accepted for
storage when the temperature of the ammonium nitrate exceeds 130 [deg]F.
(b) Bags of ammonium nitrate shall not be stored within 30 inches of
the storage building walls and partitions.
(c) The height of piles shall not exceed 20 feet. The width of piles
shall not exceed 20 feet and the length 50 feet except that where the
building is of noncombustible construction or is protected by automatic
sprinklers the length of piles shall not be limited. In no case shall
the ammonium nitrate be stacked closer than 36 inches below the roof or
supporting and spreader beams overhead.
(d) Aisles shall be provided to separate piles by a clear space of
not less than 3 feet in width. At least one service or main aisle in the
storage area shall be not less than 4 feet in width.
(4) Storage of bulk ammonium nitrate. (i)(a) Warehouses shall have
adequate ventilation or be capable of adequate ventilation in case of
fire.
(b) Unless constructed of noncombustible material or unless adequate
facilities for fighting a roof fire are available, bulk storage
structures shall not exceed a height of 40 feet.
(ii)(a) Bins shall be clean and free of materials which may
contaminate ammonium nitrate.
(b) Due to the corrosive and reactive properties of ammonium
nitrate, and to avoid contamination, galvanized iron, copper, lead, and
zinc shall not be used in a bin construction unless suitably protected.
Aluminum bins and wooden bins protected against impregnation by ammonium
nitrate are permissible. The partitions dividing the ammonium nitrate
storage from other products which would contaminate the ammonium nitrate
shall be of tight construction.
(c) The ammonium nitrate storage bins or piles shall be clearly
identified by signs reading ``Ammonium Nitrate'' with letters at least 2
inches high.
(iii)(a) Piles or bins shall be so sized and arranged that all
material in the pile is moved out periodically in order to minimize
possible caking of the stored ammonium nitrate.
(b) Height or depth of piles shall be limited by the pressure-
setting tendency of the product. However, in no case shall the ammonium
nitrate be piled higher at any point than 36 inches below the roof or
supporting and spreader beams overhead.
(c) Ammonium nitrate shall not be accepted for storage when the
temperature of the product exceeds 130 [deg]F.
(d) Dynamite, other explosives, and blasting agents shall not be
used to break up or loosen caked ammonium nitrate.
(5) Contaminants. (i)(a) Ammonium nitrate shall be in a separate
building or shall be separated by approved type
[[Page 296]]
firewalls of not less than 1 hour fire-resistance rating from storage of
organic chemicals, acids, or other corrosive materials, materials that
may require blasting during processing or handling, compressed flammable
gases, flammable and combustible materials or other contaminating
substances, including but not limited to animal fats, baled cotton,
baled rags, baled scrap paper, bleaching powder, burlap or cotton bags,
caustic soda, coal, coke, charcoal, cork, camphor, excelsior, fibers of
any kind, fish oils, fish meal, foam rubber, hay, lubricating oil,
linseed oil, or other oxidizable or drying oils, naphthalene, oakum,
oiled clothing, oiled paper, oiled textiles, paint, straw, sawdust, wood
shavings, or vegetable oils. Walls referred to in this subdivision need
extend only to the underside of the roof.
(b) In lieu of separation walls, ammonium nitrate may be separated
from the materials referred to in paragraph (a) of this section by a
space of at least 30 feet.
(c) Flammable liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, solvents, and
light fuel oils shall not be stored on the premises except when such
storage conforms to Sec. 1910.106, and when walls and sills or curbs
are provided in accordance with paragraphs (i)(5)(i) (a) or (b) of this
section.
(d) LP-Gas shall not be stored on the premises except when such
storage conforms to Sec. 1910.110.
(ii)(a) Sulfur and finely divided metals shall not be stored in the
same building with ammonium nitrate except when such storage conforms to
paragraphs (a) through (h) of this section.
(b) Explosives and blasting agents shall not be stored in the same
building with ammonium nitrate except on the premises of makers,
distributors, and user-compounders of explosives or blasting agents.
(c) Where explosives or blasting agents are stored in separate
buildings, other than on the premises of makers, distributors, and user-
compounders of explosives or blasting agents, they shall be separated
from the ammonium nitrate by the distances and/or barricades specified
in Table H-22 of this subpart, but by not less than 50 feet.
(d) Storage and/or operations on the premises of makers,
distributors, and user-compounders of explosives or blasting agents
shall be in conformity with paragraphs (a) through (h) of this section.
(6) General precautions. (i) Electrical installations shall conform
to the requirements of subpart S of this part, for ordinary locations.
They shall be designed to minimize damage from corrosion.
(ii) In areas where lightning storms are prevalent, lightning
protection shall be provided. (See the Lightning Protection Code, NFPA
78-1968, which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec.
1910.6.)
(iii) Provisions shall be made to prevent unauthorized personnel
from entering the ammonium nitrate storage area.
(7) Fire protection. (i) Not more than 2,500 tons (2270 tonnes) of
bagged ammonium nitrate shall be stored in a building or structure not
equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. Sprinkler systems shall be
of the approved type and installed in accordance with Sec. 1910.159.
(ii)(a) Suitable fire control devices such as small hose or portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided throughout the warehouse and in the
loading and unloading areas. Suitable fire control devices shall comply
with the requirements of Sec. Sec. 1910.157 and 1910.158.
(b) Water supplies and fire hydrants shall be available in
accordance with recognized good practices.
(j) Small arms ammunition, small arms primers, and small arms
propellants--(1) Scope. This paragraph does not apply to in-process
storage and intraplant transportation during manufacture of small arms
ammunition, small arms primers, and smokeless propellants.
(2) Small arms ammunition. (i) No quantity limitations are imposed
on the storage of small arms ammunition in warehouses, retail stores,
and other general occupancy facilities, except those imposed by
limitations of storage facilities.
(ii) Small arms ammunition shall be separated from flammable
liquids, flammable solids as classified in 49
[[Page 297]]
CFR part 172, and from oxidizing materials, by a fire-resistive wall of
1-hour rating or by a distance of 25 feet.
(iii) Small arms ammunition shall not be stored together with Class
A or Class B explosives unless the storage facility is adequate for this
latter storage.
(3) Smokeless propellants. (i) All smokeless propellants shall be
stored in shipping containers specified in 49 CFR 173.93 for smokeless
propellants.
(ii) [Reserved]
(iii) Commercial stocks of smokeless propellants over 20 pounds and
not more than 100 pounds shall be stored in portable wooden boxes having
walls of at least 1 inch nominal thickness.
(iv) Commercial stocks in quantities not to exceed 750 pounds shall
be stored in nonportable storage cabinets having wooden walls of at
least 1 inch nominal thickness. Not more than 400 pounds shall be
permitted in any one cabinet.
(v) Quantities in excess of 750 pounds shall be stored in magazines
in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(4) Small arms ammunition primers. (i) Small arms ammunition primers
shall not be stored except in the original shipping container in
accordance with the requirements of 49 CFR 173.107 for small arms
ammunition primers.
(ii) [Reserved]
(iii) Small arms ammunition primers shall be separated from
flammable liquids, flammable solids as classified in 49 CFR part 172,
and oxidizing materials by a fire-resistive wall of 1-hour rating or by
a distance of 25 feet.
(iv) Not more than 750,000 small arms ammunition primers shall be
stored in any one building, except as provided in paragraph (j)(4)(v) of
this paragraph. Not more than 100,000 shall be stored in any one pile.
Piles shall be at least 15 feet apart.
(v) Quantities of small arms ammunition primers in excess of 750,000
shall be stored in magazines in accordance with paragraph (c) of this
section.
(k) Scope. (1) This section applies to the manufacture, keeping,
having, storage, sale, transportation, and use of explosives, blasting
agents, and pyrotechnics. The section does not apply to the sale and use
(public display) of pyrotechnics, commonly known as fireworks, nor the
use of explosives in the form prescribed by the official U.S.
Pharmacopeia.
(2) The manufacture of explosives as defined in paragraph (a)(3) of
this section shall also meet the requirements contained in Sec.
1910.119.
(3) The manufacture of pyrotechnics as defined in paragraph (a)(10)
of this section shall also meet the requirements contained in Sec.
1910.119.
[39 FR 23502, June 27, 1974, as amended at 43 FR 49747, Oct. 24, 1978;
45 FR 60704, Sept. 12, 1980; 53 FR 12122, Apr. 12, 1988; 57 FR 6403,
Feb. 24, 1992; 58 FR 35309, June 30, 1993; 61 FR 9237, Mar. 7, 1996; 63
FR 33466, June 18, 1998]
