Blasters who conduct industrial blasting operations must hold a valid blasting certificate that is issued by WorkSafeBC. This handbook serves as a study guide for individuals who wish to be examined for a WorkSafeBC blasting certificate. With its useful and detailed content, certified blasters can continue to use the handbook as a reference guide in the field.

The handbook includes a glossary and supporting appendices, and is divided into the following five parts:

• Programs and documentation
• About explosives
• The blasting process
• Initiation systems
• Avalanche control

Note: On December 1, 2021, section 21.30 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation was repealed. We have removed the reference (related to loading a vehicle in excess of 80% of the vehicle’s rated capacity) in the British Columbia Blasters’ Handbook.

View the Blaster certification webpage to find out more about registering for and taking the blasting exam.