In 1995, the legislature enacted the Quarry and Open Pit Mine Blasting Control Act which gives the division jurisdiction over restrictions and limits on blasting at quarries and open pit mines in the state.

Safety training classes and safety consultation visits to assist employers in meeting the requirements of federal and state mining laws are provided by this division.

Also provided are consultations with operators, property owners and the general public on complaints related to blasting. Seismograph monitoring of blasting sites is also available, as is blasting training. Individuals doing blasting in Arkansas are required by Arkansas Code 13 to attend a blasting safety training course. All blasters in Arkansas must be certified.

Informational services:

• Maintains an audiovisual library of safety related videos that are available to companies and individuals to borrow, free of charge, for safety training sessions;
  
  
• Schedules safety training classes for industries, civic groups and employees associations and unions;
  
  
• Maintains maps of abandoned underground coal mines to assist with drilling information, and
  
  
• Provides information to applicants for black lung benefits.

*Please coordinate your renewal date with the nearest refresher class date

Blasting Training - PDF

Blasting Training Registration Form - PDF

Contact Information
Mike Watson, 501-682-9091 or Bob Cook, 479-754-9177
If there is no answer call Richard Steward 501-682-4521

For information concerning Mining Laws and Regulations and the Quarry and Open Pit Mine Blasting Control Act please refer to the Laws and Regulations link on this website.

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