Construction Safety : Blasting and Use of Explosives - the use of explosives or dynamite in demolition work is high risk. However, in some situations, this method is more practical use than use the machines that takes a longer time.
- Approval from relevant authorities shall be obtained before blasting activity is carrying out.
- Explosives shall not be handled or used except in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- All blasting work shall be done by trained personnel under the immediate control of a designated person who has a training, knowledge or experience in the field of transporting, storing, handling and use of explosives.
- Before blasting, the owner should take every precaution for the protection of life and property such as fly rock, dust and vibration. Warning notices shall be given to all residence and others in the immediate vicinity of the blasting operation.
- All use of explosives and any handling of explosive shall be stopped immediately upon the approach of a thunderstorm. All personnel in the area shall immediately seek a safe place for shelter as directed by the person-in-charge of the blasting.
- The structures earmarked for demolition using explosive should be cordoned off with hoarding and adequate danger signs displayed.
- Before firing, the blaster shall sound a warning distinctly audible to all persons within the danger zone and all such persons shall retreat to a safe distance or to a safe shelter. No blast shall be fired while any person is in the danger zone as determined by the blaster.
- Round-the-clock security, signboards and red flags should be used to keep out unauthorised people from the area.
- Residents from the adjacent buildings should be given circulars to inform them of the explosion and explain the safety measures adopted. The public also should be informed by the media of the closure of nearby public roads.
- After demolition by explosive method, areas and building within the immediate vicinity should be certified safe by competent person.
