§ 211.194. General requirements for handling explosives on a seismic exploration operation.
(a) Section 211.153(e) and (f) (relating to general requirements for handling explosives) is not applicable to the handling and use of explosives for seismic exploration operations.
(b) Except as specified in subsection (a), in addition to the requirements of Subchapter F (relating to blasting activities), all of the following provisions apply to the handling and use of explosives on seismic exploration operations:
(1) All explosives loaded into boreholes shall either be detonated or removed from the borehole after the maximum number of days specified in the applicable blasting activity permit.
(2) Explosives charges may not be placed closer than 300 feet from any building or other structure designated by the Department unless authorized by the Department.
(3) All detonators used in seismic exploration operations must employ the best technology available for security and functionality under the conditions into which the detonators are loaded.
(4) Explosives may not be placed on areas permitted for mining activities under Chapter 77 or 86 (relating to noncoal mining; and surface and underground coal mining: general) without prior Department approval. To obtain Department approval to place explosives on area permitted for mining activities, the permit applicant shall provide information including all of the following:
(i) Demonstration of authorization to place explosives charges and to conduct activities on the site.
(ii) A plan to ensure the safety and security of explosives charges on the mining permit from loading through detonation of the charges.
(iii) A map detailing the specific location of where charges are to be placed on the mining permit area.
(iv) If the MSHA-required training is necessary, how and when that training will be obtained and who will obtain the training. The permittee shall provide written documentation of the training to the Department prior to entry onto the mining permit.
(5) The permittee is responsible for the security of all charges in the ground to prevent the charges from being detonated, removed or otherwise tampered with. The permittee shall secure all explosives charges in accordance with the approved blasting activity permit.
(6) For all incidents where explosives are loaded into boreholes and have had their functionality compromised by loading, handling or manufacturing defects, the permittee shall remove the explosives from the borehole or destroy them in place.
(7) The permittee may not allow explosives charges to remain in the ground for more than 1 year.
APPENDIX A. [Reserved]
Source The provisions of this Appendix A reserved July 13, 2001, effective July 14, 2001, 31 Pa.B. 3751. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (243499) to (243502).
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