The Science of Limestone Operations

Limestone operations are tightly regulated, extensively monitored and routinely reviewed by independent agencies and experts.

Image of federal and state government icons

From multiple levels of government ...

Icon illustrating different employees in workforce

… to independent experts, geologists and seismologists.

Tightly Regulated

US Bureau of Mines Seal

Most blasting limits are based on a U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) report called RI 8507. The study established safe, science-based limits to prevent damage to even the most susceptible building materials.

Pie Chart showing 62%

Florida’s ground vibration limits are 62% stricter than those set by USBM.

Florida State Fire Marshal Seal

Mining operations in Florida are also regulated by the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Here's how it works

Step 1: Preparation

Document Review

Experts review everything from permit and project specifications to excavation plans and permitted blast times.
 
Image of 3 documents spread out

Site examination

Professionals must evaluate field conditions—from surface and groundwater to any geological irregularities.
 
Icon picturing simple reading glasses
Diagram displaying blasting layout and process

Step 2: Planning

 
During the planning phase, mining professionals must determine blast hole pattern and detonation sequence.
Both are optimized to break the rock efficiently and to minimize ground vibration and sound.

Step 3: Implementation

  1. Highly trained operators dig small, precise holes in the rock.
  2. The holes are then filled with a blasting agent.
  3. Operators connect the detonators.
  4. Safety experts secure the blast area.
  5. A highly-coordinated detonation follows, producing energy that travels through the rock and causes it to break, allowing for extraction.
Icon picturing a simple drilling rig
Icon picturing an animated seismograph

Monitoring


Blasting crews, regulators and independent seismologists monitor all operations using highly sensitive seismic instruments.


We use advanced blasting technology to ensure our operations are well within safe limits.

Monitoring


Blasting crews, regulators and independent seismologists monitor all operations using highly sensitive seismic instruments.


We use advanced blasting technology to ensure our operations are well within safe limits.

Icon picturing an animated seismograph

3 Things to remember

  1. Highly trained experts oversee the mining process from start to finish.
  2. Our blasts stay consistently below state limits, which are 62 percent stricter than the national levels established by the U.S. Bureau of Mines.
  3. Technological advances, including sophisticated electronics and micro-seismographs have greatly increased control, limited vibrations and reduced frequency of blasting.