The Science of Limestone Operations
![Image of federal and state government icons](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/govt-icons.png)
From multiple levels of government ...
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… to independent experts, geologists and seismologists.
![US Bureau of Mines Seal](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/BureauOfMinesSeal-v1-compressed.png)
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%](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/62percent-v1-compressed.png)
Florida’s ground vibration limits are 62% stricter than those set by USBM.
![Florida State Fire Marshal Seal](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/statefiremarshall-v1-compressed.png)
Mining operations in Florida are also regulated by the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office.
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](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/documents-fanned-out-01-compressed.png)
Site examination
Professionals must evaluate field conditions—from surface and groundwater to any geological irregularities.
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![Diagram displaying blasting layout and process](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/blast-diagram-01-compressed.png)
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
- Highly trained operators dig small, precise holes in the rock.
- The holes are then filled with a blasting agent.
- Operators connect the detonators.
- Safety experts secure the blast area.
- 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](https://mdlpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/drilling-rig-icon-compressed.png)