CES Explosives Safety & Handling 2

Question 1

What minimum separation distance is required between a detonator magazine and a high explosives magazine under ATF regulations?

Accepted Answer

100 feet

Answer

ATF regulations require a minimum of 100 feet separation between detonator (blasting cap) magazines and high explosives magazines to prevent sympathetic detonation.

Question 2

Which condition makes it MOST dangerous to use electric blasting caps?

Accepted Answer

Proximity to radio frequency transmitters

Answer

Radio frequency energy from transmitters can induce stray currents in electric blasting cap leg wires, causing accidental initiation.

Question 3

When conducting a post-blast inspection after a misfire, what is the FIRST action a blaster must take?

Accepted Answer

Wait at least 30 minutes before approaching in a hot blast and 1 hour for a cold blast

Answer

Waiting the mandated time (30 min for hot/warm blasts, 1 hour for cold/wet conditions) allows unstable material to stabilize before personnel approach.

Question 4

Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.912, when must all persons and vehicles be cleared from the blast area?

Accepted Answer

Before connecting the detonating circuit

Answer

OSHA requires all personnel and vehicles to be removed from the blast area before the blasting circuit is connected to prevent accidental initiation while people are present.

Question 5

What does the term 'sympathetic detonation' refer to in explosives handling?

Accepted Answer

Detonation of one explosive charge triggered by the shock wave of an adjacent charge

Answer

Sympathetic detonation occurs when the shock energy from one exploding charge initiates a nearby unconnected charge without direct electrical or physical connection.

(CES) Certified Explosives Specialist Practice Test

(CES) Certified Explosives Specialist Practice Test

CES Explosives Safety & Handling 2