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Mining Publication: Blasting Injuries in Surface Mining with Emphasis on Flyrock and Blast Area Security
Keywords: Blasting Fatalities Flyrock Hazard prevention and control Injuries 
 Surface mining
Original creation date: January 2004
Authors: TS Bajpayee, TR Rehak, GL Mowrey, DK Ingram
Peer Reviewed Journal Article - January 2004
Download PDF Document (0.73 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20024349
J Saf Res 2004 Jan; 35(1), 2004 Jan; :47-57
Blasting is a hazardous component of surface mining. Serious injuries and fatalities result from improper judgment or practice during rock blasting. This paper describes several fatal injury case studies, analyzes causative factors, and emphasizes preventive measures. This study examines publications by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), the U.S. Geological Survey, and other authors. The main source of information was MSHA's injury-related publications. During the 21-year period from 1978 to 1998, the mean yearly explosive-related injuries (fatal and nonfatal) for surface coal mines was 8.86 (95% CI: 6.38-11.33), and for surface metal/nonmetal mines 10.76 (95% CI: 8.39-13.14). Flyrock and lack of blast area security accounted for 68.2% of these injuries. This paper reviews several case studies of fatal injuries. Case studies indicate that the causative factors for fatal injuries are mainly personal and task-related and to some extent environmental. A reduction in the annual injuries in surface coal mines was seen during the 10-year period of 1989-1998 (5.80 (95% CI: 2.71-8.89)) compared to the previous 10-year period of 1979-1988 (10.90 (95% CI: 7.77-14.14)). However, such reduction was not noticed in the metal/nonmetal sector (9.30 (95% CI: 6.84-11.76) for the period 1989-1998 compared with 11.00 (95% CI: 7.11-14.89) for the period 1979-1988). A multifaceted injury prevention approach consisting of behavioral/educational, administrative/regulatory, and engineering interventions merits consideration. The mining community, especially blasters, will find useful information on causative factors and preventive measures to mitigate injuries due to flyrock and lack of blast area security in surface blasting. Discussion of case studies during safety meetings will help to mitigate fatal injuries and derive important payoffs in terms of lower risks and costs of injuries.
Image of publication Blasting Injuries in Surface Mining with Emphasis on Flyrock and Blast Area SecurityPeer Reviewed Journal Article - January 2004
Download PDF Document (0.73 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20024349
J Saf Res 2004 Jan; 35(1), 2004 Jan; :47-57
See Also
An Analysis and Prevention of Flyrock Accidents in Surface Blasting Operations
Characteristics of the Top Five Most Frequent Injuries in United States Mining Operations, 2003-2007
Ergonomic and Statistical Assessment of Safety in Deep-Cut Mines
Fatal Accidents Due to Flyrock and Lack of Blast Area Security and Working Practices in Mining
Independent Contractor Trends in the United States Mining Industry
Injuries, Illnesses, and Hazardous Exposures in the Mining Industry, 1986-1995: A Surveillance Report
Injury Analysis of Pennsylvania Small Surface Coal Mines
A Summary of Fatal Accidents Due to Flyrock and Lack of Blast Area Security in Surface Mining, 1989 to 1999
Technology News 522 - Blast Area Security: Flyrock Safety
Toolbox Training on Flyrock Awareness
Page last reviewed: September 21, 2012
Page last updated: September 21, 2012
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Program
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