QSCS - Quarry Sector Shot Firing course, Field Audit & Registration
7th Sep 2009 - 31st Dec 2010
Reference No: SFQ/IIE2009-03
For personnel to fulfil a Shotfirers role while undertaking blasting in the Irish quarrying sector, it is necessary for them to demonstrate that they are competent across the range of activities that the role requires. It is mandatory for all Shotfirers using explosives in quarrying applications to have completed the appropriate QSCS registration. Irish Industrial Explosives provides to shot firers in the Republic Of Ireland the opportunity to complete this training and progress to QSCS registration. 2010 Course dates are as follows; 8 - 10th, 13 & 14th September 2010 in Portlaoise
The knowledge required for registration is gained through a combination of classroom based training and observing the practical tasks undertaken during shotfiring and explosives supervision. The classroom training requires some prior experience of shotfiring and comprises of 5 consecutive days that includes;
1. Properties and Characteristics of Explosives
2. Types of Explosives
3. Types of Detonators
4. Safe Handling of Explosives & Detonators
5. Initiation Systems
6. Storage, Security and Transport of Explosives & Detonators
7. Legislation
8. Misfires
9. Environmental considerations
10. Blasting Rules
11. Blast Specifications
12. Elements of Blast Design
13. Drilling Techniques
14. Control of Drilling
15. Blasting Methods
16. Noise & Vibration Control
17. Danger Zone Assessment
The first 3.5 days are spent on general explosives subjects, followed by a half day written examination. The first half of the fifth day is spent on quarry specific topics, followed by another half day written examination.
Having successfully completed the examinations, candidates are then required to undergo a field assessment by their course Tutor of the key skills required for operating safely and competently. This field assessment comprises of an audit of the candidate undertaking the key shotfiring tasks for a real blast and must take place within 6 calendar months of successfully completing the written examinations. Upon successful completion of this audit, the candidate will be awarded a FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council) Certificate – (Level 5 Special Purpose Award) in Quarries. This in turn entitles them to apply for and receive a QSCS Card in quarry shotfiring.
The QSCS shotfiring card is valid for a period of 5 years. Throughout this time, the candidate is required to maintain a logbook recording their blasting experience. Renewal of the card after this period of time will be subject to an audit of the logbook and professional discussion.
The course fee shall be invoiced on receipt of the reservation. Payment must be received 2 weeks prior to attendance at the course. Failure to receive payment may result in the Booking being cancelled and the reservation re-allocated.
Cancellation Policy: A 20% cancellation fee shall be charged if attendance is cancelled prior to 2 weeks before the course commences. A replacement may be sent at no charge. No refund shall be given if attendance is cancelled within the 2 week period immediately preceding the course.
Note; The courses are strictly limited to 12 candidates. A waiting list shall be maintained when the limit has been reached for the course. Persons on the waiting list shall be given the option of attending in the event of a cancellation or offered places on subsequent courses.
