Explosive and blasting agents are used in mining, quarrying, construction, and other activities 
where rock fragmentation is essential for the success of the project. About 5.25 billion pounds of 
explosives were used in the United States during 2001. Out of this, coal and nonmetal mining 
consumed about 4.29 billion pounds [USGS, 2003]. A major part of this consumption was 
related to surface mining. Although blasting presents numerous hazards, the mining industry 
considers blasting an indispensable element of rock excavation. Although mechanical 
excavators can be successfully used in topsoil and clay, blasting is considered an inevitable 
technique for excavating hard rock. Manufacturers and users are consistently trying to enhance 
blasting safety. The mining industry has improved its blasting safety record during the past five 
years [Rehak et al. 2001]. Flyrock, lack of blast area security, premature blast, misfire, and 
disposal were major causes of blasting-related injuries in surface mines. Out of these flyrock and 
lack of blast area security accounted for 68% of the injuries [Verakis and Lobb, 2001]. Miners 
and personnel employed by the mining