5 Precautions for Storing Explosives at a Site
People who intend to use explosives during a DIY demolition project may not know the specific precautions that they should implement in order to avoid some of the risks that can arise. This article discusses some of the helpful precautions that can avert some of the accidents that could occur if explosives aren't stored or handled correctly.
Keep Them Off Walls
Make sure that the containers in which the explosives are stored don't make any contact with the interior walls of the room in which those explosives are stored. This precaution is necessary because adequate ventilation must be maintained around those containers so that conditions that can cause the explosives to ignite spontaneously, such as high temperatures, are avoided.
Position Markings Carefully
You should also identify the side of the container that has the markings of the contents in that container before you position those containers within the storage room. Make sure that the markings of the container are clearly visible to anyone approaching those containers. This precaution will ensure that anyone entering the room will immediately know that a given container has explosives. In this way, those containers will be handled carefully in case someone wants to move them.
Select Tools Carefully
It is important for you to select the tools that you use to open the containers of explosives very carefully. Select tools, such as wooden or rubber mallets, that cannot start any sparks as they make contact with the container having explosives. In this way, you will avert any accidental explosions within your storage facility.
Know Where to Unpack Explosives
Explosives are usually stored in strong containers called magazines. You should never unpack explosive packs or packets inside a magazine. You should also avoid unpacking explosive packets within a short distance, such as five feet, from a magazine containing more explosives. This precaution is necessary in order to avoid a major explosion that can occur if a packet accidentally ignites near other packets within a magazine.
Isolate Detonators
Some forms of explosives, such as dynamite, usually have detonators that can be used to trigger a controlled explosion at a jobsite. It is advisable to gather all the detonators and store them far away from the storage location of the explosives. This measure will prevent any accidental contact between the detonators and the explosives during storage. Ask the explosives supplier, like Rock On Ground, for any additional precautions that you should take when you are storing or using those explosives that you have bought. You will then be able to handle those dangerous substances safely until you use them in your project.