Explosives technologists develop, document, manufacture, examine, store, transport, inspect and test explosives, both for commercial and military purposes. In the manufacturing industry, they are responsible for the planning of production plants, processes and analytical methods for the manufacture of explosives for the mining and engineering industries, as well as their evaluation and application. They prepare scale models of the envisaged plant, plan down to the finest details and specify the processes to be followed.
In the laboratory, routine analytical processes and development take place. Raw materials are first analysed, then technologists ensure production goes according to plan and that final products measure up to expectations. Research is carried out to develop new techniques, processes and products. If these are accepted, specifications are drawn up for their implementation.
The nature of the work depends on the employer. If it concerns the South African Defence Force or the South African Ammunition Corporation, then explosives technologists are responsible for the care and proper handling of highly dangerous explosive and ammunition.
Inspectors of occupational safety, working for the Department of Labour, inspect various organisations that store explosives to ensure the safety of people working there. In the South African Police Force, explosives experts have to destroy explosives that have been abandoned.
At the Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs, explosives experts are not only involved in blasting, but also in the inspection of health and safety regulations at mines. For example, blasting is only done at specific times, to ensure that workers are not exposed to harmful fumes.
In the public sector, explosives technologists or demolition experts are responsible for the planning and execution of blasting operations in the mining and engineering industries. This involves blasting operations for making excavations, ditches and swimming pools, and for the demolition of buildings and for special effects. They can also be employed in channels where gravel and granite are mined.
Explosives technologists often work in teams with scientists, technicians and tradesmen. In this process they are sometimes involved in research and development and responsible for the management of very sophisticated processes and systems. The explosives industry is, in contrast to what is sometimes believed, one of the safest occupations in the country. However, working with explosives is still extremely dangerous and explosives technologists are always provided with safety equipment and the relevant training.
Management skills, computer literacy, a healthy work ethic and entrepreneurship, are actively promoted during training.
Boston City Campus and Business College does not offer a programme that leads directly to this occupation. Please take a look at the related occupations below to see whether any of these appeal to you. Alternately, please send an email to taryn@boston.co.za and a Student Advisor will call you back.
A PACE Career Centre Product. © All rights reserved | Developed by Netgen (Pty) Ltd. Disclaimer: Please see disclaimer