Course Search Course Search

Seismic Blaster Safety Training

Workers who are engaged in seismic shot-hole drilling and blasting activities will learn the principles of seismic exploration and the safety practices behind blasting activities.

This course has been developed in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Geophysical Contractors (CAGC) and Western Canadian government representatives to provide a minimum industry training standard for blasting in seismic exploration. Meeting industry standards set by CAGC, Western Canadian authorities, and Energy Safety Canada.

The Alberta Government has issued Energy Safety Canada an authorization letter to provide industry with this training,

  • Upon successful completion of this course and Interprovincial examination, Energy Safety Canada issues an Interprovincial Seismic Blaster permit, valid throughout the Yukon, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia
  • Passing grade on exam 80%
  • It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the applicant/student have current Standard First Aid certification. If self-employed, it is your responsibility to ensure you have current Standard First Aid certification
  • You may take this course for general informational purposes; in this case there are no prerequisite requirements and no exam. You will not be eligible for an interprovincial permit, but an Energy Safety Canada Training Record will be issued upon request
  • Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. sharp and may continue beyond 4:30 p.m. MT Attendance and full participation are mandatory see Cancelation Policy
  • Energy Safety Canada offices are available to support during regular business hours Contact Us

Topics Covered

  • Principles of seismic exploration
  • Seismic explosives and accessories
  • Storage and transportation
  • Safe work practices
  • Government regulations

Requirements

  • Students must be at least 18 years of age (19 to hold blasters permit in the N.W.T.)
  • Minimum of six months hands-on experience as a blaster’s assistant in the past 36 months immediately preceding the course date
  • Confirm you have a Explosives Regulatory Division approval letter (or equivalent). This must be presented to the blasting examiner prior to writing the exam
      • Equivalents:
    • Nexus Card: Issued by Canada Boarder Services
    • FAST Card: Issued by Canada Boarder Services
    • Permis General: Issued under Quebec’s Act Respecting Explosives
    • Firearms Possession and Acquistion Licence (PAL): Issued under the Firearms Act
    • Approval Letter: Issed by Natural Resources Canada
  • Be physically capable of performing the duties of a seismic blaster
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Students must be adequately prepared to participate in English for required course elements
    •           Student Language Resources
    • Currently supported version of your operating System for Windows or Apple
    • Stable internet connection with a supported web browser
    • Web Camera
    • Speakers / Microphone (headset recommended)
    • Latest version of Zoom installed and an active Zoom account. After registering for the course, watch the Virtual Tutorial Video for guidance and support

    Application Process

    • Participants must complete the Seismic Blasters Safety Training application form
    • This process is for candidates wishing to obtain seismic blasters permits/certificates for Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
    • Once Energy Safety Canada approves your application, notification will be sent to you with course registration details.