S-2.1, r. 4 - Safety Code for the construction industry

Section 4.1.9 Disposition versions

2015-02-26

4.1.9. When there is a risk of accidental blasting by electric induction, caused notably by a radio frequency transmitter or a power line, the employer must favour a non-electrical priming method.

If the employer nonetheless carries out blasting using an electrical priming method, the employer must take all the safety measures required, including the following:

(a)  inform the Commission, before the work begins, of the safety measures agreed upon with public utilities where the blasting is near a power line of 125,000 V or more;

(b)  place, 300 m around the loading area, signs requiring drivers to turn off the radio transmitter of their vehicle;

(c)  isolate electrical circuits and make sure that the detonator leg wires are twisted together when the detonator is inserted in the firing point;

(d)  make sure that all equipment emitting radio, electric or magnetic waves

i.  are turned off within 15 m around the loading area before the electric detonator is assembled with the lead wires

ii.  comply with the distances recommended in the Safety Guide for the Prevention of Radio Frequency Radiation Hazards in the Use of Commercial Electric Detonators, published by the Institute of Makers of Explosives (Safety Library).

O.C. 1959-86, s. 32; O.C. 57-2015, s. 10.

2012-09-01

4.1.9. When blasting is done in the vicinity of power lines with a voltage higher than 750 V:

(1)  It is forbidden to use an electrical system to fire a blast in the magnetic field of power lines which induce currents higher than 60 mA.

(2)  Despite subsection 1, an electric detonator may be used to fire a non-electrical system on the condition that the detonator leg wires be twisted together when the detonator is inserted in the firing point.

(3)  Before work begins, the employer must notify the Commission of the measures taken with the public utilities concerned, where blasting is done in the vicinity of a power line.

(4)  All joints of the electrical system must be raised and covered.

O.C. 1959-86, s. 32.