Drilling

With the exception of stone quarries, perhaps the most common way to break up rock in surface mining is through drilling and blasting. Drilling is typically used to create blast-holes into which explosives can be loaded and detonated; however, drilling may also be used for purposes other than providing blast-holes. Different methods of drilling exist and can be based on the desired size of the hole, method of mounting, and type of power.

To learn more about MSHA Part 48 training requirements visit our MSHA Part 48 Subpart B Surface Mining Online Training web page.