Clarification on OSHA standards for blasting and use of explosives.

Archive Notice - OSHA Archive

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

April 12, 1985

Honorable Beverly B. Byron
Member, United States House of Representatives
10 E. Church Street
Frederick, Maryland 21710

Dear Congresswoman Byron:

This is in response to your inquiry of March 19, on behalf of Mr. W.B. Rose, President of Rose Lease, Inc., of Frederick, Maryland, concerning Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for blasting and use of explosives.

Blasting and Use of Explosives Relative.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

August 26, 1981

Restrictions on drilling within 50 feet of a hole loaded with explosives.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 5, 2010

Letter #20080729-8550

Re: Does 29 CFR §1926.905(h) allow a drill to be used within 50 feet of a hole loaded with explosives when it is necessary to use the drill to open up a previously-drilled hole so that it can also be loaded?