APPENDIX I 

BLASTING PLAN 
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BLASTING PLAN 

1. PURPOSE 

The purpose of this Blasting Plan is to provide guidelines for the safe use and storage of 

blasting materials on the Project. This Blasting Plan is intended to protect the safety of 

personnel and nearby facilities. This Blasting Plan does not relieve the Pipeline Contractor of 

the responsibility for developing site-specific blasting plans. A site-specific blasting plan must 

be prepared by the Contractor and submitted to Kern River for review prior to any blasting. 

2. GENERAL 

Blasting-related operations, including obtaining, transporting, storing, handling, loading, 

detonating and disposing of blasting material, drilling and ground-motion monitoring, shall 

comply with applicable federal, state and local regulations, permit conditions and the 

construction Contract. Blasting for grade or trench excavation shall be utilized only after all 

other reasonable means of excavation have been used and are unsuccessful in achieving the 

required results. Kern River may specify locations (foreign line crossings, near-by structures, 

etc.) where consolidated rock shall be removed by approved mechanical equipment such as 

rock-trenching machines, rock saws, hydraulic rams, or jackhammers in lieu of blasting. Before 

blasting, a site-specific blasting plan must be submitted to the Kern River district manager or his 

designee for approval. The site-specific blasting plan must be reviewed by the appropriate Kern 

River engineer. The Kern River engineering department will analyze the data to determine the 

combined stress level of each affected pipeline and will make recommendations and/or forward 

approval to Kern River before blasting may commence. Drilling and blasting shall be done with 

a safety or other designated Kern River inspector present who has been determined to be 

qualified to oversee and direct the handling or use of the explosive materials for these 

applications during construction. The Kern River representative’s approval is required to 

proceed prior to each blast. Approval does not relieve Contractor from responsibility or liability. 

3. QUALIFICATIONS OF BLASTING CONTRACTOR 

Blasting operations shall be conducted by or under the direct and constant supervision 

of experienced personnel legally licensed and certified to perform such activity in the jurisdiction 

where blasting occurs. Contractor shall provide Kern River with evidence of experience and 

such licenses and permits prior to any blasting activities. 
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4. PRE-BLASTING REQUIREMENTS 

Contractor shall place all necessary "one calls" 72 hours prior to construction or as 

required by one-call system(s). Any costs incurred resulting from failure to comply with this 

Specification shall be at Contractor’s expense. Contractor shall be responsible for protection of 

existing underground facilities. Before performing any ROW work, Contractor shall verify with 

Kern River that all property owners have been notified of impending construction in accordance 

with landowner agreements, as applicable. Contractor shall acquire all required federal, state 

and local permits relating to transportation, storage, handling, loading and detonation of 

explosives. Contractor shall furnish a site-specific blasting plan (including completion of the 

Kern River Pre-Blasting Data Sheet Form – KRGT 0142) to Kern River at least five working 

days prior to any proposed blasting-related activity and shall obtain Kern River approval in 

writing prior to drilling. Any changes to the Blasting Plan that could increase the particle velocity 

or ground movement shall require prior written approval by Kern River. 

Prior to blasting near existing pipelines, the blasting contractor shall simulate their 

Blasting Plan to verify peak particle velocity and frequency of the blast. 

5. SITE-SPECIFIC BLASTING PLANS 

The site-specific blasting plan provided by Contractor shall include the following: 

 name, address and telephone number of the blasting contractor; 

 blaster's name, company, copy of license and statement of qualifications; 

 explosive type, product name and size, weight per unit and density (g/cc); 

 method of detonation; 

 delay type, sequence and delay (milliseconds [ms]- not less than 25 ms); 

 initiation method (detonating cord, blasting cap or safety fuse); 

 stemming material and tamping method; 

 blast location map; 

 hole spacing; 

 hole depth, diameter and pattern; 

 explosive depth, distribution and maximum weight per delay; 
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 number of holes per detonation and interval time; 

 date and time of proposed blasts; 

 distance from pipeline to the center of the explosive pattern; 

 angle between pipeline and explosive line; 

 distance from pipeline to nearest explosive line; 

 distance from nearest facility aboveground structure, if applicable; 

 distance and orientation to nearest aboveground structure; 

 distance and orientation to nearest underground structure, including pipeline; 

 procedures for storing, handling, transporting, loading and firing explosives, fire prevention, 

inspections after each blast, misfires, flyrock and noise prevention, stray current accidentaldetonation prevention, signs and flagmen, warning signals prior to each blast, notification 

prior to blasting and disposal of waste blasting material; 

 seismograph company, names, equipment and sensor location; 

 copies of all required federal, state and local permits; 

 magazine type and locations for explosives and detonating caps; 

 typical rock type and geology structure (solid, layered or fractured); 

 pipeline location (MP and Stationing); 

 applicable construction alignment sheet numbers; 

 type of rock being blasted (if known); and 

 is the explosive to be detonated under standing water or groundwater. 

Approval of the Blasting Plan by Kern River does not limit or reduce the Contractor’s 

responsibility for safety, damages, compliance with permits and regulations and the accuracy 

and adequacy of the Blasting Plan for obtaining adequate rock breakage. 

Restrictions on Blasting Methods/Techniques (to be considered when developing the 

Blasting Plan): 

 The blasting agent Ammonium Nitrate and Fuel Oil (ANFO) shall not be allowed. 
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 The frequency caused by the detonation of the explosive charge shall not drop below a 

frequency of 25 Hz. 

 The minimum time delay between the detonation of charges shall not be less than 25 ms. 

 There will be no more than one shot/delay. 

 Explosive cords shall not be used without written permission of the land management 

agency. The agency may specify conditions under which such explosives may be used, 

precautions to be taken and similar measures. 

 Contractor may select and use any commercial explosives and explosive agents available 

consistent with the conditions of the Blasting Plan except as noted above (i.e., ANFO). 

6. MONITORING OF BLASTING 

Contractor shall provide seismograph equipment to measure the peak particle velocity 

(PPV) of all blasts in the vertical, horizontal and longitudinal directions. Seismic monitoring can 

only be discontinued if: (a) the blasting schedule and blasting performance consistently produce 

PPVs at the pipeline that are lower than the maximum allowable limit; and (b) as the designated 

Kern River representative authorizes. Contractor shall measure the peak particle velocity at the 

adjacent pipeline, at any water wells, potable springs and at any above ground structure within 

150 feet of the blasting. Contractor shall complete the Kern River Blasting Log Record form 

KRGT 0142 immediately after each blast and submit a copy to the designated Kern River 

representative. 

7. LIMITS ON PEAK PARTICLE VELOCITY 

Contractor is limited to a peak particle velocity of 4 inches/sec measured adjacent to an 

underground pipeline, unless Kern River approves otherwise. For any aboveground structure 

(including water wells), the peak particle velocity shall not exceed 2 inches/sec. For all above 

ground facilities within 150 ft of the blasting, Contractor shall provide additional seismograph 

equipment to determine the PPV at the aboveground facility. If the measured peak particle 

velocity at an existing pipeline or other structure exceeds the above limits, Contractor shall stop 

blasting activities immediately and notify Kern River. The Blasting Plan must be modified to 

reduce the peak particle velocity prior to any further blasting. 
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8. SAFETY 

8.1 Protection of Aboveground and Underground Structures 

Contractor must exercise control to prevent damage to aboveground and underground 

structures including buildings, pipelines, utilities, springs and water wells. If blasting occurs 

within 150 ft of identified water well or potable springs, water flow performance and water quality 

testing will be conducted before blasting. If the water well is damaged, the well owner will either 

be compensated for damages or a new well will be provided. If blasting occurs within 150 ft of 

any aboveground structures, Contractor and Kern River will inspect structures before and after 

blasting. In the unlikely event that damage occurs to an aboveground structure, the owner will 

be compensated. Damage claims resulting from blasting shall be Contractor's responsibility. 

Blasting is not allowed within 10 ft of an existing pipeline unless authorized by Kern River. 

Holes shall not be re-drilled, which have contained explosive material. Holes shall not be drilled 

where danger exists of intersecting another hole containing explosive material. Blasting mats or 

padding shall be used on all shots where necessary to prevent scattering of loose rock onto 

adjacent property and to prevent damage to nearby structures and overhead utilities. Blasting 

shall not begin until farmers and occupants of nearby buildings, stores, residences, places of 

business and places of public gathering have been notified by Contractor sufficiently in advance 

to protect personnel, property and livestock. Contractor shall notify all such occupants at least 

72 hours prior to blasting. Blasting in or near environmentally sensitive areas such as streams 

and wildlife areas may include additional restrictions as identified in ROW or other permit 

stipulations or conditions. 

8.2 Protection of Personnel 

Only authorized, qualified and experienced personnel shall handle explosives. 

Smoking, firearms, matches, open flames and heat-and-spark-producing devices shall 

be prohibited in or near explosive magazines or while explosives are being handled, transported 

or used. No explosive material shall be located where they may be exposed to flame, excessive 

heat, sparks, or impact. 

A code of blasting signals shall be established and posted in conspicuous places. 

Employees shall learn and use this code. 

Contractor shall use every reasonable precaution including, but not limited to, visual and 

audible warning signals, warning signs, flag person and barricades to ensure personnel safety. 
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Warning signs, with lettering a minimum of 4 inches in height on a contrasting 

background, will be erected and maintained at all approaches to the blast area. 

Flaggers will be stationed on all roadways passing within 1,000 ft of the blast area to 

stop all traffic during blasting operations 

All personnel not involved in the actual detonation shall stand back at least 1,000 ft, and 

workers involved in the actual detonation shall stand back at least 650 ft from the time the blast 

signal is given until the “ALL CLEAR” has been sounded. 

An audible blasting signal (air horn or siren) shall be sounded 5 minutes before and after 

each blast. 

Blasting operations shall be conducted during daylight hours. 

No loaded holes shall be left unattended or unprotected. No explosives or blasting 

agent shall be abandoned. No loaded holes shall be left overnight.

In the case of a misfire, the blaster shall provide proper safeguards for personnel until 

the misfire has been re-blasted or safely removed. 

Kern River employs electrical cathodic protection on the existing pipeline, and fault; 

currents may be present anywhere along the pipeline. 

Kern River employs two-way radios for communication between vehicles and office 

facilities. Contractor shall advise Kern River of any need to cease use of such equipment during 

blasting activities. 

All loading and blasting activity shall cease and personnel in and around the blast area 

will retreat to a position of safety, during the approach and progress of an electrical storm 

irrespective of the type of explosives or initiation system used. This is a major safety precaution 

and will always be observed. All explosive materials, all electrical initiation systems and all 

nonelectric initiation systems are susceptible to premature initiation by lightning. 

No drilling may commence near a previous blast area until such blast area has been 

inspected to verify the absence of misfires. If a misfire occurs adjacent to a hole to be drilled, 

the misfire is cleared by the blaster using whatever techniques are called for by the situation 

prior to commencement of drilling. Should a misfire occur at some distance from the drilling 

area, drilling may be stopped while clearing preparations are underway. When the misfire is to 

be cleared by reshooting, drilling will be shutdown and personnel evacuated to a place of safety 

prior to detonation. 

All transportation of explosives will be in accordance with applicable federal, state and 

local laws and regulations. Any vehicle used to transport explosives shall be in proper working 

condition and equipped with tight wooden or non-sparking metal floor and sides. If explosives 
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are carried in an open-bodied truck, they will be covered with a waterproof and flame-resistant 

tarpaulin. Wiring will be fully insulated to prevent short-circuiting, and at least two (2) fire 

extinguishers will be carried. The truck will be plainly marked as to its cargo so that the public 

may be adequately warned. Metal, flammable, or corrosive substances will not be transported 

in the same vehicle with explosives. There will be no smoking, and unauthorized or 

unnecessary personnel will not be allowed in the vehicle. Loading and unloading of explosives 

will be done carefully by competent, qualified personnel. 

No sparking metal tools will be used to open kegs or wooden cases of explosives. 

Metallic slitters will be used to open fiberboard cases, provided the metallic slitter does not 

come in contact with the metallic fasteners of the case. There will be no smoking, no matches, 

no open lights, or other fire or flame nearby while handling or using explosives. Explosives will 

not be placed where they are subject to flame, excessive heat, sparks, or impact. Partial cases 

or packages of explosives will be reclosed after use. No explosives will be carried in the 

pockets or clothing of personnel. The wires of an electric blasting cap shall not be tampered 

with in any way. Wires will not be uncoiled. The use of electric blasting caps will not be 

permitted during dust storms or near any other source of large charges of static electricity. 

Uncoiling of the wires or use of electric caps will not be permitted near radio-frequency 

transmitters. The firing circuit will be completely insulated from the ground or other conductors. 

No electric wires or cables of any kind will be permitted near electric blasting caps or 

other explosives except at the time and for the purpose of firing the blast. All electric-blasting 

caps, either singly or when connected in a series circuit, will be tested using a blasting 

galvanometer specifically designed for the purpose. Different types of blasting caps will not be 

used in the same circuit unless approved by the manufacturer. No attempt will be made to fire a 

circuit of electric blasting caps with less than the minimum current specified by the 

manufacturer. All wires to be connected will be bright and clean. All electric blasting cap wires 

will be short-circuited until ready to fire. 

No blast will be fired without a positive signal from the person in charge. This person will 

have made certain that all surplus explosives are in a safe place; all persons, vehicles and/or 

boats are at a safe distance; and adequate warning has been given. Adequate warning of a 

blast will consist of but not be limited to the following: 

 Notification of day and time given to Bureau of Land Management (BLM)/United States 

Forest Service (USFS), railroads, highway departments, city engineer, etc. Notification must 

be given at least 72 hours prior to blasting. 

 Notification of homeowners nearby. 
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 Stopping vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic near the blast site. 

 Signal given by an air horn, whistle, or similar device using standard warning signals. 

Only authorized and necessary personnel will be present where explosives are being 

handled or used. 

Condition of the hole will be checked with a wooden tamping pole prior to loading. 

Surplus explosives will not be stacked near working areas during loading. Detonating fans will 

be cut from spool before loading the balance of charge into the hole. No explosives will be 

forced into a borehole past an obstruction. Loading will be done by a blaster holding a valid 

license or by personnel under his direct supervision. 

9. IN-WATER BLASTING 

It is not anticipated that any underwater blasting will be required for the Project. 

However, in the event it is required, the following shall be the minimum requirements for inwater blasting. The pipeline contractor shall develop a detailed blast plan for in-water blasting. 

If in-water blasting is required, all applicable parts of non-water blasting shall apply. 

Blast holes will be held open by some device, such as wooden plugs, sleeves, casings 

extending above the water surface, or other suitable methods submitted to and approved by 

Kern River. All holes to be shot at the same time will be loaded immediately prior to blasting. 

Loading will be by means of a non-sparking metal loading tube or similar device. Water 

resistant electric blasting caps will be used except at power line locations. 

Explosives used under water will have waterproof paper shells or otherwise be protected 

from the effects of water. Type of explosive, size of charges, sequence of firing, etc. will be 

selected to minimize shock wave stresses on aquatic life adjacent to the blasting area. All 

appropriate resource agency notifications will be made. 

10. STORAGE REQUIREMENTS 

Explosive materials shall not be stored on Federal land without prior written permission 

from the BLM/USFS. Copies of this permission shall be posted on each magazine and copy 

given to the Kern River Construction Manager. 

All explosives, blasting agents and initiation devices shall be stored in locked magazines 

that have been located, constructed, approved and licensed in accordance with local, state and 
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federal regulations. Magazines shall be dry, well ventilated, reasonably cool (painting of the 

exterior with a reflective color) bullet and fire resistant and kept clean. 

Initiation devices shall not be stored in the same box, container, or magazine with other 

explosives. Explosives, blasting agents or initiation devices shall not be stored in wet or damp 

areas; near oil, gasoline, cleaning solvents; near sources of heat radiators, steam pipes, stoves, 

etc. No metal or metal tools shall be stored in the magazine. There shall be no smoking, 

matches, open lights, or other fire or flame inside or within 50 ft of storage magazines or 

explosive materials. The loading and unloading of explosive materials into or out of the 

magazine shall be done in a business-like manner with no loitering, horseplay or prank-playing. 

Magazines shall be kept locked at all times unless explosives are being delivered or 

removed by authorized personnel. Admittance shall be restricted to the magazine keeper, 

blasting supervisor, or licensed blaster. Magazine construction shall meet the requirements of 

ATF P5400.7 “Explosives Law and Regulations” (Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Fire Arms) 

and be in accordance with local, state, or federal regulations and the Blasters Handbook. 

Accurate and current records shall be kept of the explosive material inventory to ensure 

that oldest stocks are utilized first, satisfy regulatory requirements and for immediate notification 

of any loss or theft. Magazine records shall reflect the quantity of explosions removed, the 

amount returned and the net quantity used at the blasting site. 

When explosive materials are taken from the storage magazine, they shall be kept in the 

original containers until used. Small quantities of explosive materials may be placed in day 

boxes, powder chests or detonator boxes. Any explosive material not used at the blast site 

shall be returned to the storage magazine and replaced in the original container as soon as 

possible. Magazine location shall be in accordance with local, state, or federal regulations. 

Where no regulations apply, magazines shall be located in accordance with the latest edition of 

the 175th anniversary edition of the Blaster’s Handbook and ATF P5400-7 “Explosives Law and 

Regulations” (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Fire Arms). 

Magazines shall be marked in minimum 3-inch high letters with the words “DANGER - 

EXPLOSIVES” prominently displayed on all sides and roof. 

11. GENERAL BLASTING PROCEDURE 

The following lists of steps will be performed in all cases. These steps represent a 

minimum requirement and give a general order to the blasting procedure: 

 A safety meeting will be held prior to any blasting activities. Everyone who is involved with 

the blasting in any form must attend. Safety rules and signaling should be reviewed. 
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 Warning signs should be erected. 

 Lightning detectors should be set up. 

 Drilled holes should be measured accurately for depth and location. 

 Seismic equipment should be set-up to measure velocities near the pipeline and any 

structures 150 ft or less from blast. 

 Distances to any nearby structure (aboveground or belowground) suspected of being less 

than 300 ft from the blast shall be measured. 

 Clear the blasting affected zone. 

 Give the warning signal. 

 Give the blast signal. 

 Detonate the blast. 

 After blaster has checked for misfires and given the “ALL CLEAR” signal, inspectors will 

inspect any aboveground or underground facilities for damage. 

 Complete the Kern River Blasting Log Record - KRGT 0142. 
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