Q: What does a licensed blaster do?
A: A blaster is a person who is licensed to detonate explosives in blasting operations. They decide hole size, spacing, depth, total quantity and the timing delays that will be used in detonation.
Q: How do I become a licensed blaster in Kentucky?
A: There are five requirements to become a licensed blaster in Kentucky.
1. 24 months experience under the immediate supervision of an experienced blaster
2. Pass a written exam (exam fee $40)
3. Submit an Application and Instructions for Initial General Blaster's License
4. Submit an Affidavit from a person knowledgeable of your blasting experience
5. Submit an AOC Background Check Form
6. Submit a photograph
7. Upon passing the exam, a license will be issued (fee $25)
Q: What if I am a licensed blaster in another state?
A: If the Commissioner determines that the qualifications from another state meet those of Kentucky, and reciprocal licensing privileges have been granted to licensees of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, you may be granted a license without an examination by the Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing. You will need to provide the following:
1. Complete the Application and Instructions for Initial General Blaster's License
2. Complete the Affidavit
3. Complete the AOC Background Check Form
4. Submit a photograph
5. Submit an application free of $60
6. Submit a copy of your blaster's certification card from the state in which you are certified
7. Submit a copy of your test scores from the state in which you are certified
Q: Are there additional requirements to be qualified for surface coal mine blasting?
A: Yes. In this case, you must also be certified by the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement. Their requirements are:
1. Hold a valid Kentucky blaster's license (must meet all requirements above)
2. Pass a written exam covering the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement's blasting regulations
3. Complete 30 hours of training covering all topics contained in the two exams
4. File a completed application to the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement's on the appropriate form
5. Furnish at least two letters of reference from co-workers in blasting operations who can show that you have conducted yourself in a responsible manner during the blasting operations
6. Pay a fee of $25
Q: Where are the Blaster's Certification Cards issued?
A: They are issued by the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement.
Michael Roark
#2 Hudson Hollow
Frankfort, KY 40601
Telephone 502-564-2320
Q: Who do you contact for Non-Coal explosive permits?
A: Please refer all questions regarding Non-Coal explosive permits to Barry Glass in the Division of Explosives and Blasting.
Telephone: 502-573-0140
Q: Where do I report stolen explosives?
A: By law, all stolen explosives must be reported to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF)
Toll-free number: 800-800-3855.
Lexington telephone: 859-219-4508
You may also contact:
- Office of Mine Safety and Licensing
Division of Explosives and Blasting
Telephone: 502-573-0140
- The Kentucky State Police
Special Operations Section
Lexington telephone: 859-293-4500
Q: Who can I call if I want to report a safety-related concern at a coal mine or other blasting site?
A: The Office of Mine Safety and Licensing maintains a toll-free automated hotline for reporting safety concerns. Please give the site location and a brief summary of the problem so that an inspector can be sent to the site. You will not be asked to leave your name or any other identifying information.
Toll-free hotline: 800-928-5119.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: Call the Division of Explosives and Blasting or e-mail Jeff Taylor.
Telephone: 502-573-0140, extension 227
Additional forms and instructions for their completion can be found on the home page.
