The application for blasting in Pennsylvania has three components -- a notarized application, a notarized letter verifying at least one year of experience under a licensed blaster, and a $100 check or money order. Because the next step after applying is to complete training which is offered only a few days a month, there is an application deadline. For example, for the September 14, 15 and 16 training session the application deadline is September 1.
Training is held over the course of two eight-hour days. Students learn and discuss new and existing Pennsylvania blasting regulations. Blasting topics covered include instruction on calculations regarding scaled distance, electric blasting and blast design, seismic instruments, explosive materials, blast initiation systems and blasting machines. Students also learn about the proper use of required forms and reports as mandated by Pennsylvania state regulations.
After the two day training, students take a written exam on the third day. Students can take an exam in one of several content areas -- general blasting, demolition blasting, surface mining, trenching construction and "limited" -- meaning the license holder is limited to the size of the blasts he may detonate. Each exam has a different passing score requirement. General blasting requires 90 percent; demolition blasting, 90 percent; surface mining, 80 percent; trenching and construction, 80 percent; and limited, 80 percent. Students can use a scientific calculator and have four hours to complete the test. Test results are mailed to students within six weeks.
Test content is a combination of the information covered in the two-day training and information that applicants are expected to know as they have been working with a licensed blaster for at least a year, per the prerequisite to apply for a license. Skills and knowledge gained on the job include important safety information, practical skill application and equipment knowledge specific to the content area the student is testing in. Test questions include use of mining tools, math calculations for blasts, different types of explosives, safety guidelines and extraction planning.