To initiate the detonation sequence of explosives loaded into blast holes at the working face or in a stope. The process involves clearing the area, sounding the required alarms, and triggering the detonators via a blasting machine or electronic initiation system to break the rock.
Heard on the job
Clear the portal, we're ready to fire the main heading in five minutes.
Also heard as
- shoot
- blast
Related terms
Shotfirer
A certified worker responsible for loading explosives into drill holes and initiating the blast.
Shotfiring
The process of loading and detonating explosives to break rock.
Tamping
The process of packing material over an explosive charge to direct the blast energy.
Fuze
An initiating device used to detonate an explosive charge.