In the most difficult circumstances, ground may be classified as hot and reactive. Blasting in hot and/or reactive ground requires a systematic and planned approach involving measuring and classifying ground and implementing products and procedures to reduce unplanned detonation risks. Special training and supervision is required for blast crew personnel, and detailed scenario planning is required to cover delay and breakdown events.

A runaway reaction between sulphide minerals and ammonium nitrate can lead to spontaneous and premature detonation of one or more blast holes at any time from a few minutes to several days after loading. Hot ground is rock heated to more than 55 degrees due to chemical, geothermal or combustion processes. Although easier to detect, it presents a similar hazard to reactive ground if not managed.

Orica has proven products, procedures and people to manage even the most demanding hot and reactive ground blasting scenarios in ground temperatures exceeding 100 degrees.