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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is blasting required?

Blasting is required to breakup and fracture the bedrock so proposed excavations can occur to the desired elevations. Blasting is often the only economical option to break the rock for excavation.

How is blasting monitored?

Seismographs are placed at the site to monitor vibration levels. The seismograph is typically placed at the closest home or structure. Additionally, blasting operations must be carried out in such a manner that they will not cause fly rock or damage from the air blast overpressure or ground vibrations.

How long does the blast last?

Typical blasts are less than 10 seconds long

My neighbor received a blasting notice or an offer for a preblast inspection, but I didn’t. Why?
Written notifications and offers for preblast inspections are sent out to specific property owners located within a certain radius of the proposed blasting areas. If you have not received a notice, you are most likely located outside of the predetermined radius. The actual distance varies and is typically determine by governmental regulatory authorities.

Will I hear the warning signal before each blast?

Your ability to hear the blasting warring signals before each blast will depend on a lot of factors. The warning signals are very loud and can be heard at long distances. However, the intent of those signals is to warn those closest to the blast area. The distance at which you can hear the signal will depend on other construction noise, man made and natural barriers, the direction of the wind, if your windows are open/ closed, etc.

HOW DOES THE BLASTING COMPANY PROTECT MY PROPERTY?

Typically, blasters are licensed professionals who are required by regulation or by their employers to continually obtain training. They are trained to plan, design, implement and monitor blasts. This training stresses safety in all aspects including protection of your property.

Prior to blasting, pre-blast inspections/pre-blast surveys may be offered to nearby property owners to document the existing condition of buildings and identify any sensitive structures, building components or contents. The site conditions and the inspection information are employed to design the blast to minimize effects to your property.

To ensure that the blasts are working as planned, the resulting ground and airwaves can be measured with a blasting seismograph.

WILL THE BLASTING VIBRATIONS DAMAGE MY FOUNDATION?

The foundation is the strongest part of a house. Vibration standards are designed to protect the weakest parts of the house, such as plaster and drywall. Ground vibrations strong enough to crack foundations consisting of concrete and masonry would far exceed the limits set by typical standards.

Who do I contact first if I have any questions or concerns about the blasting?

Please contact us at 931-267-8084 or at ed@highlandblasting.com

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