Underground mines are damp, dark, noisy, and cold. There is danger of developing lung disease from breathing coal and rock dust. Surface mines are usually less hazardous. Blasting work can be dangerous and must be timed precisely. Major employers of this occupation are mining and quarrying companies, construction industries, petroleum production companies, and governmental agencies.
Wages vary according to training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. There were 150 people employed as blasters and explosives workers in Indiana in 1998. In addition, there were 210 people employed as quarry rock splitters. It is estimated that between 1996 and 2006, about 2 jobs per year for blasters and explosives workers will be available in this occupation. This number includes mostly jobs resulting from the replacement of current workers.