Rock Blasting FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Blasting
Blasting is an important part of many construction and development projects, especially in areas where rock removal is required. We understand that blasting can raise questions and concerns, so we’ve compiled answers to the most common inquiries. If you don’t find the information you’re looking for below, please feel free to reach out to us directly.
Residents will receive a Rock Blasting Notice delivered directly to notify them of upcoming blasting operations in the vicinity.
Yes, rock blasting generates ground vibrations, which are monitored using seismographs placed near homes or structures closest to the blast site. Blasting also creates air overpressure (air movement) and noise, which can sometimes cause windows to rattle, similar to the sound of thunder. This is a normal and expected part of blasting operations.
Blasts are carefully controlled to maintain vibration levels well below the industry limit of 50 mm/second PPV. While these vibrations are not expected to cause structural damage to homes or buildings, it is recommended to secure fragile items as a precaution.
Before blasting begins, crews may instruct bystanders to leave the designated danger area to ensure everyone’s safety. Guards will be stationed around the perimeter to control access and keep traffic and pedestrians away.
Warning signals will be used to indicate blasting activity:
12 short horns will sound to announce an upcoming blast and alert anyone within the danger zone.
One long, 5-second horn will sound once the blast is complete and it is safe to re-enter the area.
If you do not hear the warning signals, you are outside of the designated danger area.
Blasting is a quicker, quieter, and less disruptive method compared to rock hammering, making it a preferred and safe practice for hillside developments. It is often needed to build essential infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and home foundations — just as it was required for the services supporting your own home and your future neighbors’.
Blasting typically takes place Monday through Friday between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, with occasional activity on Saturdays if necessary.
Because blasting must follow strict safety standards and detailed inspections, the timing of each blast can vary. Specific blast times are not scheduled in advance to avoid rushing the process and to ensure the highest level of safety for everyone on site.
If you believe there is damage to your property, insurance adjusters will require proof to support any claim. To begin the preliminary investigation, please first contact M3 Drill & Blast.
All blasts are carried out following the Best Practices Guides for Close Proximity Blasting Operations, developed by the Western Canadian Chapter of the International Society of Explosive Engineers (ISEE). These guidelines ensure that trained professionals use the appropriate charge weights based on the distance to nearby structures.
Independent consultants review ground vibration data from each blast, and management continually monitors and adjusts blasting practices as needed to maintain safety standards.
It’s normal to experience variations. Blast designs can differ daily, which may cause some blasts to feel stronger than others. Factors such as the number of blasts, charge size, blast direction and timing, local geology, site location, weather conditions, and the depth of rock removal can all influence what you feel.
Blasting activities are carried out under permits issued by the local municipality. If work needs to extend beyond the permit’s timeframe, we are required to renew or apply for a new permit. Should this happen, we will provide an update before any additional blasting begins.