Simple steps to securely storing your on-site explosives

Explosives are central to mining, quarrying, construction, and many manufacturing operations. It’s one of the most important assets for these industries but can also be volatile, with mistakes carrying a high cost. As a result, knowing where and how best to store explosives on the worksite is crucial to a company’s ongoing operations.

Keeping explosives on- or off-site both have their benefits and drawbacks. While utilising off-site storage warehouses maintained by expert handlers and security personnel from an established explosives management company such as Mining and Energy Acuity (MEA) is the safest and easiest option, it is necessary to have some amount of explosives material on-site and in reach for immediate use during ongoing operations.

For companies looking to set up or improve their on-site storage solutions, the best option remains to onboard MEA as the primary explosives management partner and consultant. By onboarding an expert service provider as a partner, companies can ensure that every safety and security protocol, as well as all regulatory requirements are always met without this function taking up significant amounts of company resources.

However, knowing what’s needed to best secure your explosives material on-site against theftand damage is valuable, whether you choose to handle the process internally or appoint a reliable, reputable partner. 

Here are five simple steps your team should take to ensure your explosives are stored correctly:

1. Secure the necessary permits and approvals

One of the first actions a company must take is to secure all required permits and approvals from relevant local and national regulatory bodies. This involves identifying the specific licences needed for explosives storage, which can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of explosives being handled.

To streamline the permit acquisition process, it is critical to prepare comprehensive documentation that outline all storage plans, safety measures, and compliance strategies. This includes detailed site plans, security protocols, and emergency response strategies. 

MEA can facilitate this process on the business’ behalf, as our expertise in navigating regulatory environments ensures that all submissions meet the stringent standards set forth by authorities. 

2. Design and construct a compliant storage facility

With permits in hand, the next step is to design and construct the actual storage facility, ensuring that it adheres to all relevant safety and regulatory standards. This involves selecting an appropriate location on-site that minimises risk and complies with zoning laws. The facility must also be designed to accommodate the specific types and quantities of explosives, incorporating features such as blast-resistant materials, proper ventilation, and secure access points.

MEA can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on our extensive experience in explosives storage solutions. By leveraging our knowledge, you can ensure that the construction process is efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with industry best practices.

3. Implement comprehensive security systems

Establishing dedicated and specialised security systems and personnel whose sole responsibility is to safeguard explosives against unauthorised access and potential threats is non-negotiable. This includes installing high-security fencing, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems to monitor and protect the perimeter of the storage area, and appointing security staff with specialised training in guarding explosives. 

Additionally, advanced security technologies, such as biometric access controls andautomated real-time monitoring software, can provide an extra layer of protection and ensure that only authorised personnel have access to the explosives.

4. Establish rigorous inventory control systems

Implementing and consistently updating an effective digital inventory management system allows you to track the quantity, location, and movement of explosives in real-time. This system should include detailed logging of incoming and outgoing explosives, regular inventory audits, and automated alerts for discrepancies or unusual activity.

MEA’s advanced inventory management solutions integrate seamlessly with existing operations, providing accurate and up-to-date information that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. By allowing us to maintain precise inventory control on your behalf, you can prevent overstocking, reduce the risk of theft or loss, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

5. Conduct regular safety inspections and audits

Routine safety inspections and audits to assess how well safety and security systems are functioning over the long term will help ensure that explosives are protected against risks. These inspections should cover structural integrity, digital and physical security systems, ventilation, incident response measures, and inventory management.

MEA offers specialised audit services that can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that your storage practices remain aligned with the latest safety and regulatory requirements. Our experts conduct thorough assessments, providing actionable recommendations that enhance the safety and efficiency of your storage operations.

By taking a range of immediate actionable steps like securing permits, designing compliant facilities, implementing advanced security and inventory systems, and conducting regular audits, and consulting with the experts at MEA, companies can ensure the safe and efficient management of explosives within their operational environment.