Essential guide to portable explosives magazines in South Africa

In Africa’s expanding mining sector, the safe storage of explosives presents unique challenges in terms of infrastructure and ease of access. So, while permanent magazines serve well at established sites, the industry is increasingly turning to portable magazines to serve remote operations and temporary locations. These may include skid-mounted S3 magazines or containers, but with specific features and specifications to manage critical variables such as security, temperature, and humidity.

Notably, improper storage can lead to explosive material degradation, raising the risk of accidental detonation, or the reduced effectiveness of expensive explosives materials. This reality has shaped comprehensive regulatory frameworks for portable magazines, as local and international requirements address everything from basic construction to security systems.

With this in mind, here is a closer look at three key elements when commissioning a portable magazine:

1.    Construction and materials

Every portable magazine should feature a carefully engineered combination of materials for maximum safety.

For example, these structures often combine steel construction with interior wooden lining – materials which serve multiple purposes. The steel exterior provides essential security and durability, while the wooden interior acts to protect explosive materials from temperature fluctuations that could compromise their stability or ultimate performance.

International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG) recommend using one of three approved combinations:

• 15.9-millimetre steel with Non Ferrous interior lining

• 12.7-millimetre steel with minimum 9.5mm plywood/particleboard lining

• 9.5-millimetre steel with 57mm plywood/particleboard lining

2.    Environmental control

Temperature control and ventilation are non-negotiable aspects of explosives storage, as maintaining stable conditions inside portable magazines is crucial – especially in the extremes of African climates. International standards mandate ventilation openings of at least 60 square centimetres per cubic metre of internal space to prevent the formation of condensation and protect explosives from environmental degradation.

3.    Security infrastructure

South Africa's security requirements for portable magazines are among the most comprehensive in Africa, with particular attention paid to perimeter security and fencing.

Key fencing specifications include:

• 50mm diamond mesh fencing construction

• Minimum height of 2400mm for portable installations

• Five-strand support system using 4mm diameter wire

• Steel construction for all posts, gates, and supporting structures

• 45-degree overhead barbed wire extension

• Minimum distance requirements of five metres from mounded magazines, and ten metres from unmounded ones

Ultimately, standards and requirements are extensive for the construction of magazines and storing explosives. However, compliance with regulations remains essential to ensuring the safety of local communities and employees, and to driving efficiency in mining operations.

As a trusted partner in explosives storage solutions, MEA is able to assist all African mining operations in ensuring that magazines - whether permanent or portable – meet both local directives and international best practices.