AT A GLANCE
- Drilling blast holes
- Loading explosives in blast holes by hand, or directing bulk explosives trucks to load holes
- Connecting electrical wires, detonating cords or fuses into series and connecting the series to blasting machines
- Detonating charges
- Conducting field tests to determine the type and quantity of explosives required
- Directing the drilling of blast holes and determining the depth and diameter of blast holes
- Handling, sorting and transporting explosives and accessories
- Reading and interpreting instructions or diagrams
Possible Career Path for a Blaster:
Source: Blasting in Training (BIT) Intro Module (MCSC)
WORK ENVIRONMENT
A Blaster may be employed in the following areas:
- Mining
- Quarrying
- Construction companies
- Drilling and blasting contractors
Source: found here
MINI SKILLS ASSESSMENT
If you answer YES to the questions below, then a career as a Blaster in Training may be right for you!
- Are you strong and fit?
- Are you a self-motivated learner?
- Are you ready for a challenge?
- Do you like working independently and as part of a team?
- Are you motivated, self-reliant, dependable and responsible?
- Do you like solving problems?
- Do you enjoy travel and working outdoors?
- Do you like working with machines?
- Are you computer literate?
Source: Blaster in Training (BIT) Intro Module (MCSC)
WAGES
| Low Wage | Average Wage | High Wage |
|---|---|---|
| $20.00/hour (average in MB) | $27.39/hour (average in MB) | $34.00/hour (average in MB) |
TRAINING
If you are still in high school, here are some suggested subject areas to study that could help prepare you for further training in this field. Please check if these courses are available at your school and/or whether they will meet your graduation requirements. Some examples may include the following:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science: Physics, Chemistry
- Computers, Electronics & Communications Technology
- Geography, Earth & Environmental Science
Source: www2.careercruising.com (Explosives Specialist)
In 2015, Austin Powder Ltd. and Hugh Munro Construction Ltd. (HMCL) approached Manitoba Construction Sector Council (MCSC) to develop a Blaster-in-Training Program. The 10 modules were designed as an independent study program for the blaster working in remote regions of the province.
Entrance requirements to become a Blaster-in-Training:
- Must be 18 years of age
-
Clear driver's abstract
- Clear criminal record
- Letter of "Authorization to Handle High Hazard Explosives"
- Must be able to pass a drug test
- Construction experience preferred
How does the program work?
As a Blaster in Training (BIT) , you will need to complete on-the-job/ training program to meet the requirements for a Blaster-in-Training. It is a mentorship program, designed:
- To teach on-the-job skills combined with theory and learning exercises to increase your knowledge of blasting fundamental
As the trainee:
- Ensure you learn from a Blaster-in-Charge, who will act as your mentor
- Complete 10 modules, each focusing on a particular aspect of blasting
- To prepare you complete and pass the Manitoba Blaster's Certificate Exam
10 MODULES
Module 1: Safety on the Shot
Module 2: Products and Loading Practices
Module 3: Initiation and Timing
Module 4: Blast Calculations
Module 5: Blast Design and Blast Layout (MIDPOINT PERFORMANCE REVIEW)
Module 6: “Environmental Effects”
Module 7: Blasting Regulations
Module 8: “Blast Report”
Module 9: “Blast Planning”
Module 10: “Special Applications”
FINAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW & TRAINING EVALUATION
Next Steps…
You are now ready to take the Manitoba Blaster’s Certificate Exam.
Source: Blaster in Training (BIT) Intro Module (MCSC)
ASSOCIATIONS
Click the links below for associations related to this career!
