Colliery Training College
Surface Excavations

Full Qualification

Opencast Blasting Certificate

Training / National Certificate

Rock breaking – Surface Excavations 

Core Competencies:

Learners will complete all the required theoretical and practical training and assessments as well as complete the required minimum number of shifts in order to be accepted as a candidate for the DMR Blasting Board. 

The training also includes the Competent Person A for Surface Excavations and Blasting Assistant for Surface Mines.

Entry Requirements

Learners registered on National Certificate:

  • Grade 11 with Math / Math lit or N2 Maths
  • Employer must be MQA levy paying.

Learners following DMR route:

  • Grade 10
  • N1 with 6 subjects
  • ABET Level 3 or equivalent

As from 01 June 2017 all learners need to obtain the relevant DMR Blasting Certificate

Candidate must bring:

  • Required PPE
  • Valid certificate of medical fitness
  • Valid first aid certificate

Training Approach and Periods

24 Weeks (Full time) – Training done in 6 phases:

  • Fundamentals (2 weeks) – Maths/Literacy refresher
  • Phase 1 (5 weeks) – Health and Safety and environment incl. introduction to Strata 
  • Phase 2 (5 weeks) – Drilling and introduction to explosive
  • Phase 3 (5 weeks) – Blasting practice and procedures
  • Phase 4 (5 weeks) – Plan reading and transport
  • Board preparation (1 week) – Preparation for final board exam
  • Final Summative Assessment (1 day)

After completion of the above application will be made to the DMR for acceptance to the DMR Opencast Blasting Board Exam.

Date for this examination will be supplied by the DMR

24 Weeks (Part time) – Training done in 6 phases:

  • Fundamentals (2 weeks) – Maths/Literacy refresher
  • Phase 1 (1 week) – Health and Safety and environment incl. introduction to Strata 
  • Phase 2 (1 week) – Drilling, introduction to explosives, plan reading and transport
  • Phase 3 (1 week) – Blasting
  • Phase 4 (1 week) – Practical exposure
  • Board preparation (1 week) – Preparation for final board exam
  • Final Summative Assessment (1 day)

Learners will receive a class attendance schedule, indicating on which dates they are required to attend class at CTC = one week every month for a period of 6 months

After completion of the above application will be made to the DMR for acceptance to the DMR Opencast Blasting Board Exam.

Date for this examination will be supplied by the DMR.

To be accepted as a candidate for the On-site route, learners must have:

  • Proof of at least 2 years supervisory experience (acting on and off will not be regarded)
  • Diploma or degree in Mining or relevant field