Airblast and Ground Vibration Monitoring at Chimiwungo Pit

Abstract

Impacts of airblast and vibrations arise from blasting, a dangerous activity if not designed and performed to standard. This paper evaluates airblast and ground vibration levels and its potential impact on the neighbouring communities. Two calibrated seismographs were used to monitor potential airblast and ground vibration generated from the blast at Chimiwungo Pit. The blast complied with the set limits for infrastructures and slopes monitoring. Vibrations recorded from the trial shot PPV were predicted at 2.46 mm/s and Airblast of 10 mm/s with a maximum of 134 dB at the mine boundary, all remained well below accepted industry standards and guidelines. The airblast and ground vibration levels monitored and recorded were considered to be normal for surface blasting operations and had no negative impact on the nearby township of Manyama.