This unit is likely to be carried out unsupervised. Responsibility for the safety of others is an important part of the application of this standard.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Identify explosives applications

1.1. The job application requiring the use of explosives is identified in consultation with the field manager or supervisor.

1.2. The site for blasting is accurately identified and the surrounding area checked to confirm that all aspects of safety have been considered and actioned.

1.3. Potential side effects of the blast are identified in consideration of all site characteristics and are used in the planning of blasting operations.

1.4. Environmental implications of the intended explosives usage are considered in the planning of blasting activities.

1.5. Alternatives to the use of explosives are considered in the planning of the application and are utilised as appropriate.

2. Select explosives components

2.1. Explosives are selected to match the application, site and identified hazards at the blasting site.

2.2. The quantity of explosive energy required is established in line with the site characteristics and the designated application.

2.3. Initiator device selection reflects industry best practice and is matched to explosives selection.

2.4. Safety fuses are utilised as required to suit the application.

Required skills

examine explosives and determine their classification

select explosives for particular tasks

estimate the likely effect of explosives on structures, personnel and livestock in the site vicinity

select appropriate fly-rock control devices, e.g., blasting mats as required

use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks

use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required

use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures

use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

identification of the components of various explosive products

indications for the uses of various explosive products

performance of various explosive products, the behaviour of the substrate material (e.g., sand, soil, rock, etc.) when subject to blasting

jobs requiring the use of explosives (e.g., blowing stumps, rabbit warrens, excavating a dam site and excavation requirements, fence post holes, tree or vine holes, rock floaters, etc.)

particular properties of explosives/blasting agents and their suitability for particular purposes

Australian Standards - A218

7.1 1998: Storage and land transport

Australian Standards - A2187.2 1993: Explosives - storage, transport and use

Australian Standards - A2187.0 1998: Explosives - Glossary of terms

other State and Territory legislation.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

establish the need to use explosives

identify the risks and environmental implications of using explosives

select explosives and initiator devices to match the application, site and identified hazards at the blasting site

utilise safety fuses as required

select appropriate fly-rock control devices.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Types of explosive charges may include:

bulk charges that are commercially procured such as:

explosives/blasting agents or ammonium nitrate/Fuel Oil (ANFO)

compounds mixed on site.

explosive compounds such as:

water gels

slurries

emulsions

ammonium nitrate explosives (ANFO)

black powder

special purpose explosives.

Relevant legislation may include:

Australian Standards and legislation that relate to this standard are Australian Standards - A2187.1 1998: Storage and land transport. Australian Standards - A2187.2 1993: Explosives storage, transport and use. Australian Standards - A2187.0 1998: Explosives Glossary of terms, and other State and Territory legislation.

Unit sector

Explosives

This unit contains employability skills.