The presentation 'Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations' was given by Colin Hanks, the Explosives Liason Officer for Avon and Somerset Constabulary and was attended by 34 members.

Colin explained the 2 types of store and how each are licensed. Stores classed as Magazines and factories where quantities above 2 tonnes are held being licensed by the HSE. Other stores holding less than 2 tonnes are licensed by the Local Authority. It is these types commonly held within quarries to which he focused.

The main difference to how future licensing applications will be assessed is the introduction of separation distances which apply from the location of the store to the nearest building which is habited. This maybe a process building with a control room, weighbridge, security lodge, admin offices, general stores, workshops etc.

When making an application you are expected to include a scaled survey of the location site and it's surroundings, which show the nearest building and also the distance from the store as a direct radial measurement. It takes no account of any variances in heights, hills or any other features in between.

The type of store construction is then considered, and whether or not it is mounded. The nearest building if deemed not to be of a vulnerable type (defined in the regulations), but an internal process building as detailed earlier will allow the distance to be doubled for the purpose of calculating the total amount of explosives that maybe stored.

Using the tables detailed in the regulations for each type of store the distance calculated then will correspond to the quantity in Kg's that will be considered for the license application.

As with previous regulations Aquire and Keep license will be required as well as the RCA document from the HSE.

Also on applications, all products to be stored need to be listed with their UN numbers which may vary between suppliers.

As always and even more so in today's climate, Colin expressed that security of the installation, procedures for accurate storekeeping, and controls for the taking of deliveries safely is also a vital part of his considerations from applicants. Part of this will include a visit to licensed keepers by VOSA inspectors to ensure that deliveries from suppliers are taken correctly at site but also to include security of the transportation vehicles.

In summary Colin explained that he was always more than happy to assist applicants in both applications and also any security issues they may have.

Following questions, a vote of Thanks to Colin was duly given on behalf of the Branch.

A.Shakeshaft - Branch committee member