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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    License holders: Please notify the Department of any changes in your employment or contact information.

    The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for regulating the storage, handling and use of explosives in the Commonwealth. This includes blasting at coal mines, quarries, construction sites and demolition blasting. For more information on blasting and explosives use, please see the Citizens Guide to Explosives Regulation in Pennsylvania or visit our eLibrary publications page where you will find a list of citizen’s guides and fact sheets pertaining to explosives, as well as other environmental topics.

    Excavation Blasting and the Risk of Noxious Fumes Fact Sheet

    Chief’s Advisory Letter: Carbon Monoxide and Other Noxious Fumes from Blasting (PDF)

    Blasting Technical Library

    DEP is proud to now host an online library of technical papers and reports related to blasting science, safety, tools, and technology. This library was formerly hosted on the Federal Office of Surface Mining’s ARBlast website. The library is available to all as a technical resource.

    Regulations

    Blasting and explosives use is regulated under Title 25 of the Pa. Code:

    More information on blasting permits.

    Training and Certification

    Blaster Training and Examination Dates and Providers

    Blasting License Photo Reminder
    You may be able to renew your license by sending an electronic photo. Please contact the office at 717-783- 9592 to inquire regarding license photos. For photos taken at the Department’s photo licensing location, please call for availability prior to your travel for a photo license.

    The Photo Licensing location, phone number and hours are:
    Bureau of Mining Programs
    Rachel Carson State Office Building
    400 Market Street, 5th Floor
    Harrisburg, PA 17105-8461
    (717) 787-5103
    Hours: Mon.- Fri. 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

    To Report lost or stolen cards, as well as changes of address or employer please email us at RA-EPBLASTER@state.pa.us

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    Blasting and Explosives

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