CES Communication & Documentation 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When an unexpected misfire occurs at a blasting site, what must be documented in the incident log before any investigation begins?
- The exact time and location of the misfire (Correct answer)
- The names of all nearby residents
- The cost of the explosives used
- The weather forecast for the following day
Correct answer: The exact time and location of the misfire
The exact time and location must be immediately recorded to establish a factual baseline for the misfire investigation.
Question 2: Which federal agency requires the Explosive Incident Report (EIR) to be submitted following a theft or loss of explosives?
- OSHA
- ATF (Correct answer)
- EPA
- MSHA
Correct answer: ATF
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) requires the Explosive Incident Report for any theft or loss of explosive materials.
Question 3: A blaster's log entry is considered legally deficient if it is missing which of the following?
- A diagram of the drill pattern
- The blaster's signature or initials (Correct answer)
- A copy of the purchase receipt
- A list of all site visitors
Correct answer: The blaster's signature or initials
Without the blaster's signature or initials, the log entry lacks legal accountability and cannot be authenticated.
Question 4: What is the primary purpose of a pre-blast survey report in urban blasting operations?
- To calculate the powder factor for the shot
- To document pre-existing structural conditions before blasting begins (Correct answer)
- To estimate the noise level during detonation
- To record the chain of custody for detonators
Correct answer: To document pre-existing structural conditions before blasting begins
A pre-blast survey documents existing structural damage before blasting to protect against false damage claims and ensure accountability.
Question 5: Under ATF regulations, how long must records of explosive purchases and sales be retained?
- 1 year
- 3 years
- 5 years (Correct answer)
- 10 years
Correct answer: 5 years
ATF requires that records of explosive transactions be retained for a minimum of 5 years.
Question 6: Which piece of information is NOT typically required on a explosive material transfer record?
- Type and quantity of explosive transferred
- Name and license number of the recipient
- Intended blasting location
- Signature of the transporting driver's supervisor (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Signature of the transporting driver's supervisor
Transfer records require identification of parties and materials, but the transporting driver's supervisor's signature is not a standard ATF requirement.
Question 7: When communicating a blast warning to the public, which element is most critical to convey clearly?
- The type of explosives being used
- The estimated cost of the operation
- The time and location of the blast (Correct answer)
- The name of the blasting contractor
Correct answer: The time and location of the blast
The time and location are the most critical elements of a public blast warning so people can take appropriate precautions.
CES Communication & Documentation 2
When an unexpected misfire occurs at a blasting site, what must be documented in the incident log before any investigation begins?