Shotfiring was introduced as a new Eire FÁS Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) category in the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2006 (schedule 4). It was to be a legal requirement from 6th May, 2008, but this was later extended to the 6th July, 2009.
This would require construction shotfirer’s to successfully complete a CSCS Shotfiring programme and be in possession of an experienced CSCS Shotfiring card.
This programme was developed in association with a Steering group consisting of representatives from Industry, Health and Safety Authority, Irish Trade Unions, Construction Industry Federation and EPIC (UK based Shotfiring Consultants).
It was anticipated that the numbers requiring training/assessment would be in the region of up to 50 people.
The aim of this programme is to enable experienced Construction Shotfirers to gain recognition through assessment of their skills and knowledge for the safe and efficient operation of a Construction shotfiring blast.
Candidates for this programme must:
Candidates must undertake a 5 day classroom based training programme with an approved instructor for the core module and then undertake two examinations.
On successful completion of the Construction Blasting Module Examinations (minimum 70% pass) candidates will undertake an on-site practical assessment (1 day duration) of their practical Blasting Skills.
Candidates must provide a site where they will carryout a construction Shotfiring exercise and arrange with the approved instructor, a date for the practical assessment to be undertaken.