Designed for individuals in operational roles underground and tunnelling, this course focuses on the competencies needed for conducting safe underground shotfiring operations. It is suitable for those seeking an Underground Shotfirer license or aiming to hold a statutory position to be written into the mine record.

Course Components and Requirements for Statement of Attainment:

To obtain a Statement of Attainment, candidates undertake a blended learning program covering three components:

1. Theory: Offered through various delivery methods:
   • Classroom: 4-day session available in private or public programs
   • Self-pace online in partnership with worksite training department
2. Operational Work Site Engagement & Experience Evidence Submission
3. Onsite Observational and Oral Assessment: Conducted by BMI Trainers / Assessor in partnership with site to evaluate practical & theory application skills.

Entry Requirements:

• Minimum age of 18
• Possession of a Dangerous Goods Security Card or equivalent Security Clearance card to handle explosives (TAS Trainees require WST Letter of Approval)
• Current employment on a Drill and Blast team for a minimum of 3 months
• Ability to provide evidence of participation in shotfiring teams and blasts
• Basic understanding of mining operations and explosives obtained through a site induction
• Proficiency in English (speaking, reading, and comprehension)
• Fundamental mathematical knowledge including basic area, volume calculations, percentages, and equation transposition
• Basic computer literacy

Equipment Requirements:

• Computer or iPad with a camera and internet connectivity
• Mobile phone (IOS or Android) running the SiteDocs APP. Trainees will be required to utilise mobile devices to collect workplace evidence onsite.  Prior authorisation is necessary to capture photos as supporting evidence.  
• Email address
• Unique Student Identifier (USI) for Australian Residents

Course Duration: Total 140 hours (nominal)

Candidates will be expected to complete the Course within 12 months from commencement.

All theory training costs are excluding practical assessment. When requesting a quote Site Partnership agreement is required to be arranged if a Practical Assessment is to occur.

Reference material will be provided with the course.

Licensing requirements can vary significantly from state to state. The additional requirements are to be considered when applying for a State license (please refer to the State WorkSafe Webpage for your specific requirements):

Victoria Underground Blasting license additional Unit:

• RIIBLA402 Monitor and Control the Effect of Blasting on the Environment

NSW Underground BEUL license additional Unit:

• RIIBLA401 Manage Blasting Operations (Underground)

REFRESHER COURSE for Existing Shotfirers

Existing Shotfirers may be required to undergo requalification every five (5) years through completion of a ‘Refresher’ training program.

Course Components:

The refresher training includes:

1. Theory Component: Covering essential updates and advancements in shotfiring practices.
2. Submission of Evidence: Providing evidence of shotfiring activity completed over the previous twelve months, inclusive of some risk assessment and auditing activities.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants must provide their VET Transcript and previous Statement of Attainment by a Registered Training Organisation recongised by the State Regulator as being approved to provide training in the State they are to be licenced in.

Notes About Certificate of Theory Completion:

All candidates have access to a Certificate of Theory Completion at completion of all theory units.

• A Certificate of Completion is not a recognised qualification and will not support an application for a Statutory Shotfirers licence.
• The Certificate can be upgraded to a Statement of Attainment on completion of the required practical experience and assessments if completing course within 1 year from enrolment.
• Upgrading a Certificate to a Statement may incur additional costs

[Note: Course entry does not guarantee employment.]