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CSCS Shot Firing study materials
CSCS Shot Firing study resources

CSCS Shot Firing practice questions

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Question 1Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under UK explosives legislation, what is the maximum period for which a shotfirer's explosives certificate may be granted before it must be renewed?

  1. One year
  2. Three years Correct answer.
  3. Ten years
  4. Five years

Explanation

Explosives certificates issued under the Explosives Regulations 2014 are valid for a maximum of three years, after which the holder must apply for renewal. Shorter periods may be granted at the issuing authority's discretion.

Question 2Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which body is responsible for issuing explosives certificates to shotfirers in Great Britain?

  1. The Environment Agency
  2. The Health and Safety Executive
  3. The local police force Correct answer.
  4. The quarry operator

Explanation

Explosives certificates are issued by the police force for the area, following the licensing provisions of the Explosives Regulations 2014. The HSE enforces health and safety law but does not issue these certificates.

Question 3Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A shotfirer is asked to store a small quantity of detonators overnight on site. Under the Explosives Regulations 2014, which arrangement best meets the requirement for security?

  1. A vehicle glovebox with the keys held by the site manager
  2. A dedicated magazine complying with the relevant separation and construction standards Correct answer.
  3. A sealed container left in the welfare unit
  4. A locked wooden box in the site office

Explanation

Detonators must be kept in a suitable magazine that meets the construction, security and separation requirements of the regulations. Improvised containers do not provide the required standard of security or protection.

Question 4Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What does the term 'danger zone' mean in the context of a shotfiring operation?

  1. The zone where misfires are most likely to occur
  2. The area reserved for the blast designer only
  3. The area where explosives are loaded into the borehole
  4. The area within which people could be injured by the effects of the explosion Correct answer.

Explanation

The danger zone is the area around the shot in which persons could be injured by flyrock, airblast, vibration or other effects, and which must be cleared and guarded before firing. It is defined by the risk assessment for the shot.

Question 5Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Before firing a shot, which action is required to confirm that the danger zone is clear?

  1. A single audible warning followed by immediate firing
  2. Posting sentries and receiving confirmation from each that their sector is clear Correct answer.
  3. Relying on the loading crew to have walked the area
  4. Relying on signage alone to keep people out

Explanation

The shotfirer must ensure sentries or guards are posted at all approaches and that each confirms their sector is clear before firing. Signage or verbal assurance alone is insufficient without confirmation from posted guards.

Question 6Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which document sets out the legal duties of employers and others to manage risks from shotfiring under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974?

  1. The general duties in sections 2 to 7 of the Act Correct answer.
  2. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
  3. The Explosives Regulations 2014 only
  4. The Quarries Regulations 1999 only

Explanation

Sections 2 to 7 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 impose general duties on employers, the self-employed, employees and others to ensure health and safety so far as reasonably practicable. Specific regulations sit alongside these general duties.

Question 7Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Quarries Regulations 1999, who must be appointed to supervise shotfiring operations at a quarry?

  1. An external consultant
  2. The quarry manager personally
  3. Any competent operative over 18
  4. A suitably trained and competent shotfirer appointed in writing Correct answer.

Explanation

The regulations require shotfiring to be carried out under the control of a suitably trained and competent person appointed in writing. The appointment formalises responsibility and accountability for the operation.

Question 8Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the primary purpose of a blast specification or shotfiring plan?

  1. To list the names of the blasting crew
  2. To record the cost of explosives used
  3. To define the design, method and safety controls for the shot Correct answer.
  4. To satisfy insurance requirements only

Explanation

A blast specification documents the design parameters, loading details, firing method and safety controls so the shot can be carried out consistently and safely. It provides the basis for supervision and audit.

Question 9Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A shotfirer discovers a misfire. What is the correct immediate action under recognised industry guidance?

  1. Leave the site and return the next day
  2. Re-enter immediately and re-fire the circuit
  3. Cover the hole and continue firing the rest of the shot
  4. Wait the specified safe period, then investigate following the site procedure Correct answer.

Explanation

After a misfire the shotfirer must wait the safe period specified in the procedure before approaching, then investigate and deal with it under controlled conditions. Immediate re-entry or abandoning control is unsafe.

Question 10Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following best describes the legal status of industry guidance such as that published by the Institute of Quarrying or trade bodies?

  1. It has no relevance to legal duties
  2. It overrides the requirements of regulations
  3. It is advisory and represents good practice, which may be used as evidence of standards Correct answer.
  4. It is statute law and must be complied with exactly

Explanation

Industry guidance is not statute but sets out recognised good practice; courts and regulators may treat departure from it as evidence of failing to meet the required standard. It supports rather than replaces legal duties.

Question 11Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the minimum age at which a person may generally be employed to handle explosives in a shotfiring operation under UK law?

  1. 18 Correct answer.
  2. 25
  3. 16
  4. 21

Explanation

Persons under 18 are generally prohibited from handling explosives in these operations, reflecting the serious risks involved. Shotfirers must also be competent and appointed in writing.

Question 12Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following is a key requirement when transporting explosives on a site road?

  1. Allowing passengers to ride with the explosives
  2. Transporting explosives in an open trailer with no securing
  3. Carrying detonators loose in the cab for quick access
  4. Using a suitable vehicle with segregation of detonators and explosives Correct answer.

Explanation

Explosives must be carried in a suitable vehicle with detonators kept separate from other explosives and the load secured. This reduces the risk of initiation and loss during transport.

Question 13Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A contractor proposes to use a new type of electronic detonator system on site. What should the shotfirer confirm before use?

  1. That it is approved for use and covered by the site's risk assessment and procedures Correct answer.
  2. That other sites have used it
  3. That the system is the cheapest available
  4. That the supplier has provided a discount

Explanation

New equipment must be assessed for suitability, covered by risk assessment and compatible with site procedures before use. Approval and assessment ensure the system can be used safely.

Question 14Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the purpose of a 'permit to work' in relation to shotfiring?

  1. To replace the need for a shotfirer
  2. To transfer legal responsibility to the client
  3. To record the quantity of stone produced
  4. To formally authorise the shot under defined conditions and controls Correct answer.

Explanation

A permit to work formally authorises a specific activity under stated conditions and controls, confirming that prerequisites such as clearance and checks are met. It does not transfer legal duties.

Question 15Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), which shotfiring event is reportable?

  1. An uncontrolled explosion or projection of material that could have caused injury Correct answer.
  2. A shot that produces more vibration than expected
  3. A routine shot that fires as designed
  4. A misfire that is safely dealt with and causes no injury

Explanation

RIDDOR requires reporting of dangerous occurrences such as uncontrolled explosions or projections of material that could have caused injury. Routine shots and safely managed misfires are not reportable events.

Question 16Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What does 'reasonably practicable' mean when judging the safety measures required for a shotfiring operation?

  1. Doing nothing until an accident occurs
  2. Weighing the risk against the cost, time and effort of controlling it Correct answer.
  3. Doing whatever is cheapest
  4. Following only written instructions

Explanation

Reasonably practicable requires weighing the magnitude of risk against the sacrifice in money, time and trouble needed to control it. Grossly disproportionate cost can justify lesser measures, but risk must be properly assessed.

Question 17Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following best describes the shotfirer's duty regarding records of explosives used?

  1. Records are the supplier's responsibility alone
  2. Records may be kept verbally
  3. Records need only be kept if an incident occurs
  4. Accurate records of receipt, use and disposal must be maintained Correct answer.

Explanation

Accurate records of explosives received, used and disposed of are required for stock control, security and traceability. They support legal compliance and investigation of losses or incidents.

Question 18Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A shot is to be fired near a public footpath. What is the most appropriate control under the danger zone requirements?

  1. Fire quickly to minimise disruption
  2. Ask walkers to stand behind a fence
  3. Rely on walkers to hear the warning
  4. Close and guard the path for the duration of the shot and clear the zone Correct answer.

Explanation

Where a public right of way crosses or nears the danger zone, the path must be closed and guarded, and the zone confirmed clear before firing. Reliance on walkers' awareness is not a reliable control.

Question 19Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which regulation specifically requires that explosives are kept secure against unauthorised access?

  1. The Noise at Work Regulations 2005
  2. The Explosives Regulations 2014 Correct answer.
  3. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
  4. The Work at Height Regulations 2005

Explanation

The Explosives Regulations 2014 include requirements for the secure storage of explosives to prevent unauthorised access. The other regulations address unrelated hazards.

Question 20Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the role of a 'competent person' in the context of shotfiring legislation?

  1. Anyone who has watched a shot before
  2. A person with sufficient training, experience and knowledge to perform the task safely Correct answer.
  3. A person appointed by the client only
  4. A person who holds a driving licence

Explanation

Competence means having sufficient training, experience and knowledge to carry out the task safely and recognise hazards. It is assessed against the demands of the specific role.

Question 21Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A shotfirer notices that the blast specification calls for a type of explosive not held on site. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Proceed and note the change afterwards
  2. Refer back to the designer and amend the specification before proceeding Correct answer.
  3. Substitute any available explosive without reference
  4. Halve the quantity of a different explosive and fire

Explanation

Changes to the design or materials must be referred back to the designer so the specification can be amended and re-assessed. Unauthorised substitution can alter performance and safety.

Question 22Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following is a recognised duty of employees under health and safety law in relation to shotfiring?

  1. To purchase their own protective equipment
  2. To authorise the danger zone
  3. To design the blast specification
  4. To take reasonable care of themselves and others affected by their acts Correct answer.

Explanation

Employees must take reasonable care of themselves and others affected by their acts or omissions, and cooperate with their employer on health and safety. Designing and authorising are functions of appointed competent persons.

Question 23Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the main purpose of establishing exclusion zones and sentries during a shot?

  1. To protect the public and workers from the effects of the blast Correct answer.
  2. To reduce noise complaints
  3. To mark the boundary of the quarry lease
  4. To keep unauthorised vehicles off site roads

Explanation

Exclusion zones and sentries prevent people entering the danger zone and being harmed by flyrock, airblast or other effects. They are a primary control for protecting persons.

Question 24Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Quarries Regulations 1999, what must happen to the shotfiring operation if the appointed shotfirer is absent?

  1. Firing may proceed under verbal instruction
  2. An unappointed operative may take over
  3. The shot is abandoned permanently
  4. A suitably competent person must be appointed in writing before firing Correct answer.

Explanation

Shotfiring must be controlled by a suitably competent person appointed in writing; if the appointed shotfirer is absent, a replacement must be formally appointed. Informal takeover is not permitted.

Question 25Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following best describes the requirement for warning signals before firing?

  1. A single signal is always sufficient
  2. Signals are optional if sentries are posted
  3. Distinct signals should be defined for warning, firing and all-clear Correct answer.
  4. Signals should only be given at night

Explanation

A recognised system of distinct signals for warning, firing and all-clear ensures everyone knows the sequence and when it is safe to return. The system should be defined in site procedures.

Question 26Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which piece of UK legislation provides the primary framework for the control of explosives, including their acquisition, keeping, and use?

  1. The Quarries Regulations 1999
  2. The Control of Explosives Regulations 1991 Correct answer.
  3. The Explosives Act 1875
  4. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

Explanation

The Control of Explosives Regulations 1991 set out the main requirements for the acquisition, keeping, and use of explosives, including licensing and record-keeping. The Explosives Act 1875 is older and largely superseded, while the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 is a broad enabling statute and the Quarries Regulations 1999 are sector-specific.

Question 27Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, what must employers ensure regarding shotfiring equipment such as exploders?

  1. That it is suitable for its intended use and maintained in an efficient state Correct answer.
  2. That it is replaced annually regardless of condition
  3. That it is stored in a locked magazine at all times
  4. That it is only used by the site manager

Explanation

PUWER requires work equipment to be suitable for the intended use and maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. Annual replacement is not a legal requirement, use is not restricted to the site manager, and storage requirements come from other regulations.

Question 28Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the main purpose of the Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) requirement when explosives are transported by road?

  1. To supervise the loading of explosives at the quarry face
  2. To conduct the blast risk assessment
  3. To provide advice on compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations Correct answer.
  4. To drive the vehicle carrying explosives

Explanation

A DGSA is appointed to advise the carrier on compliance with the dangerous goods transport regulations, including classification, packaging, and documentation. They do not drive, supervise loading, or conduct blast risk assessments.

Question 29Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Which of the following is a key requirement of the Explosives Regulations 2014 regarding the keeping of explosives?

  1. Explosives must be kept in the shotfirer's vehicle overnight
  2. Explosives must be kept in a secure store to prevent unauthorised access Correct answer.
  3. Explosives must be stored in the open air to allow ventilation
  4. Explosives must be stored with detonators to save space

Explanation

The Explosives Regulations 2014 require explosives to be kept securely to prevent unauthorised access, often in an approved magazine. Keeping them in a vehicle overnight, in the open air, or with detonators are unsafe and non-compliant practices.

Question 30Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Quarries Regulations 1999, what must be included in the shotfiring rules for a quarry?

  1. The maximum number of visitors allowed on site
  2. The colour of the warning flags used
  3. The name of the quarry manager's deputy
  4. The procedures for dealing with misfires and abnormal conditions Correct answer.

Explanation

The Quarries Regulations 1999 require shotfiring rules to include procedures for dealing with misfires and other abnormal conditions, as these are critical safety events. The other options are not specific requirements of the shotfiring rules.

Question 31Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the legal status of an industry code of practice, such as those published by the Institute of Quarrying, in relation to shotfiring?

  1. It is only applicable to non-quarry sites
  2. It is advisory and provides guidance on good practice Correct answer.
  3. It replaces the need for a site-specific risk assessment
  4. It is legally binding and enforceable in court

Explanation

Industry codes of practice are advisory and offer guidance on good practice; they do not have the force of law. They support compliance with legal duties but do not replace site-specific risk assessments or regulations.

Question 32Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

When a new shotfirer is appointed at a quarry, what must the quarry manager ensure under the Quarries Regulations 1999?

  1. That the shotfirer has at least five years of experience
  2. That the shotfirer holds a driving licence
  3. That the shotfirer is a member of a trade union
  4. That the shotfirer is provided with a copy of the shotfiring rules and is competent Correct answer.

Explanation

The Quarries Regulations 1999 require the quarry manager to ensure that shotfirers are competent and are provided with a copy of the shotfiring rules. Experience length, union membership, and driving licence are not legal requirements for the role.

Question 33Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What must a shotfirer do if they identify that the blast specification is not suitable for the actual site conditions?

  1. Modify the specification without informing anyone
  2. Proceed with the shot as specified to avoid delays
  3. Abandon the shot indefinitely
  4. Stop and report the discrepancy to the person in charge so the specification can be reviewed Correct answer.

Explanation

The shotfirer must not proceed if the specification is unsuitable; they should stop and report the issue so that a competent person can review and revise the specification. Unauthorised modification or proceeding regardless would be unsafe and non-compliant.

Question 34Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under RIDDOR, which of the following shotfiring-related incidents must be reported as a dangerous occurrence?

  1. A minor injury requiring first aid only
  2. The unintentional detonation of explosives Correct answer.
  3. A misfire that is safely dealt with according to procedures
  4. Damage to a vehicle windscreen from flyrock

Explanation

RIDDOR requires the reporting of certain dangerous occurrences, including the unintentional detonation of explosives. A safely managed misfire, a minor first-aid injury, and minor property damage are not reportable dangerous occurrences.

Question 35Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the purpose of a 'danger zone' in shotfiring operations?

  1. To indicate the route for emergency vehicles
  2. To define the area where only the shotfirer may stand
  3. To mark the area where explosives are stored
  4. To identify the area within which persons could be injured by the effects of the blast Correct answer.

Explanation

The danger zone is the area around a shot within which persons could be injured by the effects of the blast, such as flyrock, airblast, or vibration. It is used to determine exclusion and sentry placement, not for storage or emergency routes.

Question 36Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

When must a shotfirer consult the local police before firing a shot?

  1. Whenever the shot involves more than 10 kg of explosives
  2. Only when firing during the hours of darkness
  3. Whenever a new shotfirer is appointed
  4. Only when firing near a public road or footpath Correct answer.

Explanation

Police must be consulted when a shot may affect a public road or footpath, so that appropriate traffic control or closures can be arranged. The other conditions do not automatically trigger a requirement to consult the police.

Question 37Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What is the shotfirer's responsibility regarding the security of explosives on site?

  1. To ensure explosives are kept secure and accounted for at all times Correct answer.
  2. To store explosives in a vehicle overnight
  3. To allow untrained personnel to access explosives for training purposes
  4. To leave explosives unattended if the area is fenced

Explanation

The shotfirer must ensure explosives are kept secure and accounted for at all times to prevent unauthorised access. Leaving them unattended, allowing untrained access, or storing in a vehicle overnight are breaches of security requirements.

Question 38Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, what is the duty of employees regarding shotfiring operations?

  1. To provide their own personal protective equipment
  2. To take reasonable care of themselves and others affected by their actions Correct answer.
  3. To conduct the risk assessment for the shot
  4. To design the blast specification

Explanation

Employees have a duty to take reasonable care of themselves and others who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work. Providing PPE, designing specifications, and conducting risk assessments are primarily employer duties.

Question 39Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

What does the concept of 'so far as is reasonably practicable' require in the context of shotfiring risk control?

  1. That all risks must be eliminated regardless of cost
  2. That only the cheapest control measures are used
  3. That risks are ignored if they are unlikely to occur
  4. That measures are taken unless the cost is grossly disproportionate to the risk reduction achieved Correct answer.

Explanation

The test of reasonably practicable requires employers to weigh the risk against the cost (in time, money, and effort) of controlling it; measures are required unless the cost is grossly disproportionate to the benefit. It does not demand absolute elimination or the cheapest option, nor does it allow ignoring unlikely risks.

Question 40Legislation, Regulation and Industry Standards for Shot Firing

A shotfirer is planning a blast near a site boundary. Which combination of controls best demonstrates compliance with the legal duty to protect non-employees?

  1. Informing the local residents and using sentries and exclusion zones Correct answer.
  2. Relying on natural barriers and posting a warning sign
  3. Firing at a time when few people are around
  4. Using smaller quantities of explosives without notifying anyone

Explanation

The legal duty to protect non-employees requires effective controls such as informing those who may be affected, establishing exclusion zones, and posting sentries. Relying on natural barriers, timing, or reducing explosives without communication does not adequately address the risk.

Question 41Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Which legislation in Great Britain governs the licensing and storage of explosives, including those used for shot firing?

  1. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
  2. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
  3. The Explosives Regulations 2014 Correct answer.
  4. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

Explanation

The Explosives Regulations 2014 consolidate the licensing, storage and safety requirements for explosives in Great Britain. COSHH, PUWER and HSWA provide general duties but do not set the specific explosives storage and licensing regime.

Question 42Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Under the Explosives Regulations 2014, what is the maximum quantity of explosives that may generally be kept without a licence or registration under the exemption for private use?

  1. 50 kg
  2. 5 kg
  3. 30 kg
  4. 15 kg Correct answer.

Explanation

The 2014 Regulations permit up to 15 kg of explosives to be kept without a licence or registration in certain circumstances, subject to conditions. Quantities above that threshold require the appropriate licence or registration.

Question 43Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Which of the following best describes a permitted explosive as used in coal mines?

  1. An explosive that can only be initiated by a detonating cord
  2. An explosive formulated to reduce the risk of igniting flammable mine gas or coal dust Correct answer.
  3. An explosive approved solely for use in quarry blasting
  4. An explosive with a shelf life exceeding five years

Explanation

Permitted explosives are specially formulated and tested to reduce the likelihood of igniting methane or coal dust in underground coal workings. Their composition and use are controlled by mining regulations.

Question 44Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

What is the principal hazard associated with ANFO that dictates how it must be stored and handled?

  1. It is a gas that must be stored under pressure
  2. It is highly sensitive to friction and impact
  3. It is a primary explosive liable to detonate from static discharge
  4. It readily absorbs moisture and can become a sensitive explosive in contact with some metals Correct answer.

Explanation

ANFO is a blasting agent that is relatively insensitive in normal use, but it can absorb moisture and, in contact with certain metals such as copper or brass, form sensitive compounds. Storage and handling must account for this.

Question 45Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Which class and division under the UN classification system applies to explosives that have a mass explosion hazard?

  1. Class 3, Division 3.1
  2. Class 2, Division 2.1
  3. Class 1, Division 1.1 Correct answer.
  4. Class 1, Division 1.4

Explanation

Division 1.1 covers substances and articles with a mass explosion hazard. Division 1.4 covers minor explosion hazard, and Classes 2 and 3 cover gases and flammable liquids respectively.

Question 46Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

A magazine is being sited for storing detonators. Which principle most directly governs the separation distance from occupied buildings?

  1. The quantity and hazard division of the explosives stored Correct answer.
  2. The number of employees on site
  3. The age of the magazine structure
  4. The colour of the magazine exterior

Explanation

Separation distances are determined by the quantity and hazard division of the explosives, reflecting the potential blast and debris effects. Other factors such as site layout may apply but the governing basis is quantity and hazard division.

Question 47Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

What is the purpose of a blast warning signal sequence before firing a shot?

  1. To measure the vibration level at nearby properties
  2. To alert persons in the danger zone and allow them to reach safety Correct answer.
  3. To test the continuity of the detonator circuit
  4. To confirm the explosive has been correctly primed

Explanation

The warning signal sequence gives audible notice that a shot is about to be fired so that persons can withdraw to a safe location. It does not test circuits, confirm priming or measure vibration.

Question 48Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Which of the following is the correct action if a misfire is suspected after the firing signal?

  1. Immediately approach the face and inspect the charge
  2. Re-fire the shot immediately without delay
  3. Leave the site and take no further action
  4. Wait the specified safe period, then follow the site misfire procedure under supervision Correct answer.

Explanation

After a suspected misfire, the specified safe waiting period must elapse before approaching, and the site misfire procedure must be followed. Approaching immediately or re-firing without procedure risks detonation.

Question 49Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

What does the term 'sensitiveness' of an explosive refer to?

  1. The ease with which the explosive can be initiated by a given stimulus Correct answer.
  2. The total energy released on detonation
  3. The velocity at which the detonation front travels
  4. The resistance of the explosive to water ingress

Explanation

Sensitiveness describes how readily an explosive responds to initiation stimuli such as impact, friction or heat. Energy output, detonation velocity and water resistance are separate characteristics.

Question 50Explosives: Types, Characteristics, Storage and Transport

Which statement correctly distinguishes detonating cord from safety fuse?

  1. Detonating cord burns slowly, while safety fuse detonates at high velocity
  2. Detonating cord transmits a detonation at high velocity, while safety fuse transmits a burning flame at a controlled rate Correct answer.
  3. Both transmit a detonation at the same velocity
  4. Both transmit only a burning flame

Explanation

Detonating cord carries a high-velocity detonation to initiate charges, whereas safety fuse carries a burning flame at a controlled rate to a detonator. They are fundamentally different in function and speed.