PROGRAM OVERVIEW

This Drilling and Blasting Technology curriculum is job-oriented, safety-focused, and competency-based, suitable for mining, quarrying, and construction training centers. It can be delivered as a short intensive course or a Proficiency Certificate.

PROGRAM PROFILE

• Course Title: Proficiency Certificate in Drilling and Blasting Technology
• Duration: 4–12 weeks (Flexible/ Modular / Blended)
• Credit Value: Competency-Based (CBET)
• Target Group: Miners, drillers, blasters, quarry workers, supervisors, construction crews
• Entry Requirements: Basic literacy; industry/site experience preferred
• Delivery Mode: Classroom (40% theory) + Practical fieldwork (60% practical)
• Outcome: Job-ready blasters/drillers with safety competence

PROGRAMME AIM

To produce competent and safety-conscious drillers and blasters capable of planning, executing, and supervising drilling and blasting operations using appropriate technology and regulations in mining, quarrying, and construction works.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

By the end of the course, trainees will be able to:

• Design safe and effective blast patterns
• Select appropriate drilling methods and explosives
• Handle, store, and use explosives safely
• Conduct controlled blasting operations
• Apply national safety and explosives regulations
• Minimize environmental and structural damage

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion, trainees will be able to: –

• Assess rock conditions for blasting
• Operate drilling equipment safely and efficiently
• Select and handle explosives and accessories correctly
• Design blast patterns based on rock conditions
• Design and execute safe blast patterns
• Handle, store, transport, and use explosives and accessories safely and legally
• Execute controlled blasting techniques
• Manage safety, health, and legal compliance
• Manage misfires and emergencies
• Protect the environment and surrounding communities
• Perform post-blast inspection and mucking
• Complete operational records and logbooks

GENERAL ASSESSMENT STRATEGY (CBET)

1. Theory Assessment – 40%
   • Written examinations/ test (MCQs + short answers)
   • Oral questioning (Oral safety viva)
2. Practical Assessment – 60%
   • Drill operation competency
   • Blast design accuracy i.e. blast design exercise
   • Charging and initiation
   • Safety compliance (Safe charging & initiation)
   • Field performance
   • Post-blast evaluation
3. Pass Mark: 60%

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT

All core competencies achieved. Confirms competence in:-

• Drilling operations
• Explosives handling
• Blast design and execution i.e. controlled blasting
• Safety and environmental compliance

TOOLS & TRAINING EQUIPMENT

• Drilling machines (as available)
• PPE (helmets, goggles, gloves, ear protection)
• Measuring/marking tools
• Dummy explosives for practice
• Blast design charts & forms