1. A. Applicants shall possess one year blasting experience on a surface mine under the direction of a certified surface blaster or appropriately related work experience approved by the chief.
2. B. Applicants shall pass the surface blaster examination and the endorsement section of the examination required by the DMLR and meet any corresponding DMLR requirements in 4VAC25-130-850.14. The gas detection examination is not required.

3. C. Certified surface blasters must be recertified in accordance with the DMLR requirements in 4VAC25-130-850.15. To remain certified, a blaster shall be recertified every five years by:

   1. 1. Presenting written proof that he has demonstrated blasting competency in his work during two of the last three years immediately preceding the expiration date; or
   2. 2. Retaking and passing the mined land reclamation portion of the blaster exam.
4. D. An applicant who fails the exam shall complete the training required by DMLR regulations in 4VAC25-130-850.13 and pass the coal surface blaster's exam prior to recertification.

Statutory Authority

§§ 45.1-161.28, 45.1-161.29, 45.1-161.34 and 45.1-161.35 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR480-04-2 § 2.4, eff. June 30, 1994; amended, Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 22, eff. August 20, 1997.