Section 690-245 - Preparation of shots, blasting practices and multiple shooting(a) Requirements.--(1) Only certified shot-firers shall be permitted to handle explosives and conduct blasting.(2) Only electric detonators of proper strength fired with approved shot-firing units shall be used, and drillholes shall be solidly stemmed with at least 24 inches of incombustible material or at least one-half of the length of the hole shall be solidly stemmed if the hole is less than four feet in depth unless other approved stemming devices or methods are used.(3) Drillholes shall be of ample size and shall not be drilled beyond the limits of the cut, and, as far as practicable, cuttings and dust shall be cleaned from the holes before the charge is inserted. Charges of explosives exceeding one and one-half pounds shall be used only if drillholes are six feet or more in depth.(4) Ample warning shall be given before shots are fired, and care shall be taken to determine that all individuals are in the clear before firing. Individuals shall be removed from adjoining areas and other areas when there is danger of shots blowing through.(5) No shots shall be fired: (i) In any area until the area has been properly examined by the shot-firer.(ii) In any area where 1% of gas is detected by an approved gas detection device.(6) After firing any shot, the shot-firer shall make a careful examination of the work area before leaving the area or before performing any other work in the area.(b) Plan to be submitted to department.--An operator of a mine who desires to conduct multiple shooting shall submit to the department for approval a plan indicating the manner and details proposed to engage in multiple shooting.(c) Prohibitions.--(1) While boreholes are being charged, electrical equipment shall not be operated in the work area, and only work in connection with roof support and general safety shall be performed. Shots shall be fired promptly after charging.(2) Mudcaps, adobes or any other unconfined shots shall not be permitted in any bituminous coal mine.(3) No solid shooting shall be permitted without approval from the department. Where solid shooting is practiced, blasting holes shall be stemmed the full length of the hole.(d) Blasting and shooting cables.--(1) Blasting cables shall be well-insulated and shall be at least 125 feet in length to permit individuals authorized to fire shots to get in a safe place out of the line of blasting.(2) Shooting cables shall be kept away from power wires and all other sources of electric current, connected to the leg wires by the individual who fires the shot, staggered as to length or well-separated at the detonator leg wires and shunted at the battery end until ready to connect to the blasting unit.(3) Detonator leg wires shall be kept shunted until ready to connect to the blasting cable.2008, July 7, P.L. 654, No. 55, §245, effective in 180 days [ 1/5/2009].