While, in the past, a great deal of attention has been focussed on technical
issues and the performance of explosives in rock, the explosive user, an
essential link in the chain, has often been neglected. In the mining industry, too often, the benefits of excellent technical
work have been degraded over time due to the lack of definitive and
documented control. Using the principles of quality management a quality training system
was developed and implemented for management of explosives use at
Gunpowder Copper Ltd (GCL). This paper describes the structure of the
system, its development and implementation, and contains practical
advice and information for managers responsible for blasting and charge
crews. The paper is in four parts: I Quality systems. A brief overview of the relevant aspects of total
quality management that apply to explosives use. The
requirements for documentation, management and auditing are
explored. 2. Training for competency. The five essential elements of
Competency Board Training (CBT) are examined, including
auditing. 3. The Gunpowder Copper system. Implementation of the complete
training system. Documentation and its control, auditing, instructions for operators,
management responsibility and means of obtaining operator
ownership are amongst the issues raised. Reporting requirements are the means to effectively manage change
are described. 4. Summary. The paper concludes with the tangible benefits seen by
Gunpowder Copper through the adoption of a quality training
System.