{"data":{"id":"us-nyc/n.y.c.-admin.-code-fc-5607","jurisdiction":"us-nyc","citation":"N.Y.C. Admin. Code § FC 5607","heading":"Section FC 5607: Blasting Operations","body":"5607.1 General.\n\nBlasting operations shall be conducted in accordance with this chapter, including this section, and NFPA 495.\n\n5607.1.1 Supervision.\n\nThe storage, handling and use of explosives at a job site shall be supervised as set forth in FC 5601.5.\n\n5607.1.2 Blasting related-construction.\n\nAll construction work necessary and appropriate to ensure a safe blasting operation, including shoring and underpinning of affected buildings, structures and infrastructure, shall be performed in accordance with the Building Code.\n\n5607.1.3 Permits.\n\nA permit issued pursuant to FC 105.6 for the use of explosives for blasting operations, including excavation and demolition work, shall be issued for a period of up to 9 months. Such permit may be renewed for additional periods of up to 9 months, provided that the owner and blasting contractor have complied with the requirements of this chapter.\n\n5607.1.4 Manufacturer's instructions and training.\n\nBlasting operations shall be performed in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of the explosives being used. Prior to conducting a blasting operation using explosives with which the blasting crew is unfamiliar, the blasting contractor shall ensure that the manufacturer of such explosives conducts an on-site training session for such crew. A record of attendance shall be kept of such training session and upon completion, the manufacturer and the blasting contractor shall certify that the blasting crew is qualified to use the explosives.\n\n5607.2. Permit applications.\n\nApplication for a permit for use of explosives for blasting operations shall be made by submission of a pre-blasting survey, blasting plan, monitoring plan, and site security plan. The owner and/or its general contractor or blasting contractor shall retain the services of a professional engineer, licensed to practice in New York State, to conduct a pre-blasting survey and prepare a blasting plan in accordance with FC 5607.2.1 and 5607.2.2, and a blast monitoring specialist holding a certificate of fitness for such purpose to prepare a monitoring plan in accordance with FC 5607.2.3.\n\n5607.2.1 Pre-blasting survey.\n\nPrior to commencement of blasting operations, a professional engineer shall conduct a structural survey of all buildings, structures, and infrastructure, including all landmarks and monuments, within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the property line of the job site. The pre-blasting survey shall include the names and contact information of owner representatives of all affected buildings, occupancies and infrastructure.\n\n5607.2.1.1 Assessment of existing conditions.\n\nThe pre-blasting survey shall assess and document the existing conditions of the interior and exterior of affected buildings, structures and infrastructure, provided that if, after reasonable good faith efforts, access to the interior of a building, structure or infrastructure cannot be obtained, it shall be sufficient that such survey assess and document the condition of the exterior of such building, structure or infrastructure. The pre-blasting survey report shall include photographs and/or videos, documenting any pre-existing conditions that may be exacerbated by blasting operations, including cracks and structural defects, and their location, length, size, thickness, and type. The report shall also specify the type of structural system of each affected building in a sufficient manner to allow the professional engineer to recommend the appropriate vibration limits, subject to department approval, not to exceed the limits set forth in FC 5607.19.1. The professional engineer shall also specify whether use of the global strain method in accordance with FC 5607.19.1 is recommended for each affected building. Where the professional engineer determines that a building has potentially unsafe conditions or conditions that might become potentially unsafe as a result of blasting operations, blasting operations shall not proceed before mitigation procedures are performed in accordance with FC 5607.9.6 and as may be otherwise required by the department.\n\n5607.2.1.2 Updating of pre-blasting survey.\n\nIf application is made for renewal of the permit for excavation or demolition blasting at a job site, the owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall cause any pre-blasting survey to be updated as necessary to address any change in conditions in the area to be surveyed.\n\n5607.2.2 Blasting plan.\n\nApplications for a permit for use of explosives for blasting operations shall include a blasting plan. The blasting plan shall be prepared by a qualified engineer or blaster as set forth in the rules. The blasting plan shall take into account soil (and rock) type and conditions and be designed to meet the vibration limits imposed by this section and the approved monitoring plan. The blasting plan shall include the following information and documentation and such other information and documentation as the department may require:\n\n1. The nature of the blasting operation: aboveground excavation, tunneling or other underground excavation, underwater blasting, demolition operation, or other blasting operation.\n\n2. The types of explosives to be used, quantities, charge weight per initiation, blast sequence and pattern, and number, depth and diameter of drill holes.\n\n3. For demolition operations:\n\n3.1. Engineering drawings showing the height and elevation of the building or structure to be demolished;\n\n3.2. An engineering analysis of the building or other structure and the techniques that will be used to cause it to implode or otherwise collapse.\n\n3.3. An engineering analysis of the impact of the collapse of the building, including ground vibration and air overpressure impacts on surrounding buildings, structures and infrastructure.\n\n3.4. Floor plans and structural details showing the exact locations at which explosive charges will be placed, structural elements cut and/or other measures taken to cause the structure to implode or otherwise collapse in accordance with the engineering analysis.\n\n4. The location and dimensions of the proposed blast area and other safety zones to be maintained during blasting operations, including clearance to the surrounding buildings, structures and infrastructure.\n\n5. Where blasting may disrupt underlying soil or rock conditions, the blasting plan shall specify the manner in which such consequences will be prevented or mitigated.\n\n6. The applicable ground vibration limits, in accordance with FC 5607.19.1, for every structure in the blast area.\n\n7. For fragile buildings or those having fragile elements potentially endangering the public, limits less than those established in FC Table 5607.19.1 shall be proposed for review and approval by the department.\n\n8. Copies of all other applicable permits and approvals.\n\n5607.2.3 Monitoring plan and vibration limits.\n\nA monitoring plan shall be prepared and submitted for department review and approval setting forth the manner in which blast impacts (ground vibrations and air overpressure) upon buildings, structures, and infrastructure will be monitored. The monitoring plan shall be based upon the blasting plan and the pre-blasting survey, including the findings of the engineer who conducted the survey of structural conditions. The monitoring plan shall include the following information and documentation and such other information and documentation as the department may require:\n\n1. The location and elevation of vertical control points on such buildings, structures and infrastructure, and shall set forth the type and location of any monitoring devices to be used, including tell-tales. The department may require monitoring of water shock when submarine (underwater) blasting is conducted.\n\n2. Notification procedures to be undertaken if and when limits for ground vibration and/or air overpressure are exceeded, including notifications required by FC 5607.19.4.1.\n\n3. Actions to be taken in response to limits for ground vibration and/or air overpressure being exceeded, including building inspection procedures, staffing, and use of the global strain method.\n\n4. Preparation and submission to the Department of Buildings such documentation as that agency may require with respect to the continuing structural stability of affected buildings and any actions that may need to be taken to protect public safety.\n\n5607.3 Site survey meetings.\n\nWhen directed by the department, one or more site survey meetings shall be conducted at the job site, as site conditions require, for the purpose of reviewing the measures that the blasting contractor will be required to undertake to safeguard affected buildings, structures and infrastructure. Such site survey meetings shall be attended by representatives of the department, general contractor and blasting contractor and the blast monitoring specialist. The department may require that the owner make all necessary notifications.\n\n5607.4 Notice of blasting application.\n\nIn consultation with the department, and prior to the issuance of any permit for blasting operations, the owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall provide written notice of the filing of the blasting permit application to the council member and community board for the district or districts within which the job site and property within 100 feet (30 480 mm) thereof is located. Such notice shall include the date and location of the multi-party coordination meeting required by FC 5607.5, which shall be scheduled not less than 21 calendar days from the date of delivery or mailing of such notice. The owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall also deliver or mail such notice to such federal, state and city officials and agencies and other affected stakeholders as may be invited to participate in the multi-party coordination meeting. Proof of delivery or mailing of such notice shall be filed with the department.\n\n5607.5 Multi-party coordination meeting.\n\nA multi-party coordination meeting shall be conducted for the purpose of reviewing the proposed blasting operations and the measures that the blasting contractor will be required to undertake to safeguard affected buildings, structures and infrastructure. The owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall invite the participation of owners of affected buildings, structures and infrastructure as determined by the department to be appropriate, and shall in addition notify the Department of Buildings of the meeting. The department may also request the participation of other federal, state and city officials and agencies, including the New York City Department of Emergency Management, Department of Environmental Protection, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, United States Coast Guard and United States Army Corps of Engineers, as appropriate.\n\n5607.5.1 Supporting documentation.\n\nPrior to the multi-party coordination meeting, the owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall prepare and submit to the Department of Buildings such documentation as that agency may require.\n\n5607.5.2 Utility coordination and notification.\n\nPublic utilities and other owners of electrical, natural gas, water and other utility infrastructure shall provide information to the department and the blasting contractor, including the location, depth, size, construction, condition and age of such infrastructure, including location of isolation valves, and any other information that the department may require to determine the measures that the blasting contractor will be required to undertake to safeguard such infrastructure during blasting operations. Such information shall be provided to the department upon request prior to approval of blasting operations and be readily available for the duration of blasting operations.\n\n5607.5.3 Minimizing impact of blasting operations on surrounding buildings.\n\nThe blasting contractor shall conduct blasting operations in a manner that minimizes its impact on surrounding buildings and protects public safety. Good faith measures, such as scheduling blasting at those times when students in affected schools are not arriving, departing or outdoors and when services are not being held at houses of worship, shall be taken, especially in congested areas. Appropriate procedures for such coordination shall be established at the multi-party coordination meeting.\n\n5607.6 Final review and approval of permit application.\n\nAfter the multi-party coordination meeting, the owner and/or its general contractor or blasting contractor shall submit to the department for review and approval such additional information and documentation as may be necessary to complete the permit application. Thereafter, the department may conduct one or more additional site survey meetings to confirm the adequacy of the blasting, blast monitoring and security plans and/or identify additional measures needed to assure safe blasting operations, such that the department can approve the application.\n\n5607.7 Notice of the commencement of blasting operations.\n\nNot less than 2 calendar days nor more than 5 calendar days prior to the commencement of blasting operations, the owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall provide written notice of same to each council member and community board whose respective districts include the job site or property within 100 feet (30 480 mm) thereof, and the local fire company. Such notice shall contain the anticipated dates of issuance and expiration of the blasting permit, the dates on which blasting operations are anticipated to take place, and the telephone numbers for the blasting contractor and the department to which complaints and inquiries about the blasting operations may be made. The owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall in addition forward a copy of the written notice to the owners of all buildings within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the job site. Owners of such buildings shall post such notice at a conspicuous location within each such building in a manner prescribed by the department to ensure adequate visibility. If blasting operations continue for a period of more than 1 month, additional notice shall be given to owners of such buildings and posted by such owners on a monthly basis for any month in which blasting operations are to be conducted.\n\n5607.8 Permit issuance.\n\nWhen it is satisfied that the owners and/or its general contractor and blasting contractor have met all requirements for blasting operations, the department may issue a permit for blasting operations. The permit may be issued on the day blasting is scheduled to commence.\n\n5607.9 Blasting safety.\n\nBlasting operations shall be conducted in accordance with FC 5607.9.1 through 5607.9.11.\n\n5607.9.1 Designation of blast area and blast site.\n\nThe department shall approve the size of the blast area, which shall be not less than 500 feet (152 400 mm) in diameter, and the size of blast site, which shall be a minimum of 50 feet (15 240 mm) in all directions from the perimeter of the area in which explosives are being or have been loaded, including all holes loaded or to be loaded for the same blast.\n\n5607.9.2 Safety precautions.\n\nThe following safety precautions and procedures shall be observed at a blast site:\n\n1. Only explosives approved by the commissioner may be used for blasting operations. Ammonium nitrate shall not be used as a blasting agent, except when approved for a specific blasting operation.\n\n2. The quantity of explosives used in a blast shall be no more than necessary to accomplish the task and shall be approved by the department.\n\n3. Blasting and job site personnel shall not fight fires in close proximity to explosives. All persons shall be removed to a safe area, the area affected by the fire shall be secured from entry, and the department shall be notified immediately.\n\n4. Primers shall be made only at the blast site, as needed. They shall be kept separate from all other explosives at all times until placed into the boreholes.\n\n5. Loading operations shall not take place on a cut or heading within 25 feet (7620 mm) of drilling or mucking operations.\n\n6. When tunnel blasting is to be performed:\n\n6.1. Advance or probe drilling shall be used to determine the nature of face ahead. Face shall be removed by the blaster using the smallest quantity of explosive necessary to achieve the desired blast.\n\n6.2. Only the blasters, assistant blasters and loaders may transport explosives from the magazine to the blast site.\n\n6.3. When blasting under compressed air is to be performed, detonators and high explosives shall be taken separately through the air lock with no other equipment to the pressure working chamber and immediately loaded. Unused explosives shall be returned to magazines before engaging the blasting circuit.\n\n6.4. Before firing an underground blast, the blaster shall have guards posted to all entrances to the danger zone, including any drift, raise, or other opening that may be expected to hole through.\n\n6.5. Only high explosives of Fume Class 1 shall be used in shaft, tunnel or under decking blasting operations.\n\n7. When demolition blasting is to be performed, the building to be demolished, as well as adjacent buildings within the blast area, shall be searched just prior to the blast to ensure that they are unoccupied.\n\n8. When submarine (underwater) blasting is to be performed:\n\n8.1. The drill boat shall be moored outside of navigation channels at night, equipped with a hose reel line capable of reaching any point on the deck for protection against fires, and durable \"NO SMOKING\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\" signs in compliance with the requirements of FC 310 shall be conspicuously posted at approved locations on the boat. A red flag shall be flown during the day and approved United States Coast Guard warning lights shall be lit at night to indicate explosives storage aboard the drill boat.\n\n8.2. Warning buoys shall be positioned to indicate areas blasting operations are being conducted.\n\n8.3. Blasting operations shall cease while any marine traffic or divers are within a 1,500 feet (457 200 mm) radius of the drill boat.\n\n9. Prior to the commencement of excavation blasting at a job site, and at such other time as the department may require, the blaster shall review with a department representative the blasting patterns to be utilized in connection with such blasting operations.\n\n5607.9.3 Blasting operations near or adjacent to natural gas utility infrastructure.\n\nFor blasting operations near or adjacent to a natural gas utility infrastructure, the utility company may require access to the job site so that a leak survey may be conducted prior and subsequent to blasting operations. The blasting contractor shall provide the utility company access to the job site for such purpose.\n\n5607.9.4 Demolition blasting.\n\nFor demolition blasting, the blasting contractor shall coordinate with and provide access to the utility company to disconnect all power lines within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the structure to be demolished, and sever physically from the main street lines, and cap as close to the main as possible, all services extending into the structure. Blasting shall not be conducted unless existing utility service street lines are cut and capped.\n\n5607.9.5 Submarine (underwater) blasting.\n\nFor submarine (underwater) blasting, the utility companies shall provide the department and blasting contractor with the locations of any and all underwater infrastructure within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the blast site.\n\n5607.9.6 Blasting in congested areas.\n\nWhen blasting is conducted in a congested area or in close proximity to buildings, structures or infrastructure that may be subjected to blast-induced ground vibrations or air overpressure, or whose use and occupancy may otherwise be seriously affected by blasting operations, the blaster shall schedule the timing of each blast and take appropriate precautions in its loading, confinement and initiation, so as to minimize the effect of the blast upon surrounding uses and occupancies, as set forth in FC 5607.5.3, and to control the ground vibrations and air overpressure effects. Shoring or other means approved by the commissioner of buildings shall be used to reinforce buildings, retaining walls and other structures and infrastructure that are susceptible to damage from vibration and air overpressure effects, and weak rock shall be manually removed by gads, picks or crowbars, without the use of explosives. When blasting is unavoidable in the vicinity of such buildings, structures and infrastructure, only light face blasts with short lines of resistance and small charges shall be used.\n\n5607.9.7 Weather conditions.\n\nThe blasting contractor shall monitor weather conditions to alert the blaster at the job site of approaching electrical storms. The commissioner may require that the blasting contractor use an approved device for such purpose.\n\n5607.9.7.1 Electrical storms.\n\nDuring an electrical storm, the handling and use of explosives, including loading, shall cease and the following procedures shall be observed:\n\n1. All unused explosives at the blast site shall be immediately returned to their proper magazines.\n\n2. Electrical blasting cap leg wires and lead lines shall be shunted.\n\n3. The danger zone shall be cleared of all persons until the storm has passed.\n\n5607.9.8 Unsafe conditions and complaints.\n\nThe blasting contractor shall immediately suspend blasting operations and immediately notify the department should any condition arise from blasting operations that involves the structural integrity of a building, structure or infrastructure or that otherwise threatens the safety of the general public. The blasting contractor shall also immediately notify the Department of Buildings of any condition that involves the structural integrity of a building, structure or infrastructure. Blasting operations shall not resume until authorized by the department. The blasting contractor shall notify the department of all other complaints on the day which they are received, including complaints of noise and minor damage.\n\n5607.9.9 Hours of operation.\n\nBlasting operations shall be conducted within the confines of sunrise to sunset, but in any event no earlier than 7:00 a.m. (0700 hours) and no later than 7:00 p.m. (1900 hours), Monday through Saturday. The written authorization of the department shall be required in order to conduct blasting operations at any other times, or on Sunday, and may be granted or revoked by the department in the interest of public safety.\n\n5607.9.10 Fire company access and inspection.\n\nExcept where overnight storage of explosives is approved and except as may be approved for underground job sites, the blasting contractor shall arrange an inspection by the fire company in whose administrative district the job site explosives is located, to be conducted after the final blast of the day is fired, for the purpose of verifying that have been removed* from the job site. During each such inspection, the blasting contractor shall open and latch back each empty magazine door and verify that the magazine doors or other openings are oriented toward the job site entrance\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t.\n\n5607.9.11 Demolition projects notification.\n\nIf a demolition project is in proximity to blasting operations, the blasting contractor shall advise the demolition contractor of the blasting contractor's warning signals.\n\n5607.10 Detonator safety.\n\nDetonators shall be stored, handled and used in accordance with FC 5607.10.1 through 5607.10.3.\n\n5607.10.1 Prohibited detonators.\n\nIt shall be unlawful to fire explosives by means of a timer or a slow burning or safety fuse.\n\n5607.10.2 Approved detonators.\n\nOnly approved electric and nonelectric detonators shall be used.\n\n5607.10.3 Safety precautions.\n\nDetonators shall be stored, handled and used in accordance with the following safety precautions:\n\n1. Detonators used in a single blast shall be of the same manufacture, style and function to ensure compatibility.\n\n2. Signs reading \"DANGER – BLASTING AREA – NO RADIO TRANSMITTING\" shall be conspicuously posted on the street side of the job site or on the drill boat.\n\n3. Prior to loading explosives, the blast site shall be tested for any stray currents. Such currents shall be eliminated before loading explosives.\n\n4. Care shall be taken in the selection of the blasting circuit and an adequate energy source for initiation, and in making electrical connections. Circuits shall be tested to ensure the current is 50 mA or less, and only with a blaster's galvanometer or blaster's multimeter.\n\n5. Detonators shall be shunted or short circuited until wired into the blasting circuit. The lead line shall also be shunted, unless testing the blasting circuit or preparing to fire.\n\n6. Precautions shall be taken to prevent accidental discharge of electric detonators from currents induced by radar and radio station transmitters, adjacent power lines, substations, third rails, dust, lightening and snowstorms, or other stray electrical currents.\n\n7. No radio transmission with any handie-talkies, CB radios, cell phones or other devices shall be allowed within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of electric detonators.\n\n8. For tunnel blasting, only an approved type of loading light shall be used. All regular light and power circuits shall be disconnected and removed to a location at least 100 feet (30 480 mm) from where explosives are being loaded. The only circuit allowed within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the blast site shall be the one being used to fire the charges.\n\n9. Detonators and explosives shall not be transported together on the job site, except in magazine cars and carry boxes in which the detonators and explosives are kept in separate approved containers or compartments.\n\n10. During compressed air operations, all metal pipes, rails, air-locks and steel tunnel-lining shall be electrically bonded and grounded at or near the portal or shaft, and shall be cross-bonded at 1,000 feet (304 800 mm) intervals throughout the length of the tunnel. In addition, each low air supply pipe shall be grounded at its delivery point.\n\n5607.11 Security.\n\nSecurity shall be maintained at the job site in accordance with the site security plan pursuant to FC 5607.2.4. The blasting crew shall be trained in the safe storage, handling and use of explosives. During the time that holes are being loaded or are loaded with explosives, blasting agents or detonators, only authorized persons engaged in drilling and loading operations and department representatives shall be allowed at the blast site. The blaster may authorize other persons to enter the blast site but such persons shall remain under the personal supervision of the blaster at all times. When necessary to ensure that the blast area is and remains clear, the blaster shall post blasting contractor personnel with red flags at the perimeter of the blast area to prevent pedestrians and traffic from entering. The job site shall be barricaded, and the assistance of law enforcement personnel requested, as necessary, to ensure compliance with these requirements. Job site security shall be maintained until the post-blast procedures have been completed.\n\n5607.12 Drill holes.\n\nHoles drilled for the loading of explosive charges shall be of a diameter sufficient to insert explosives to the bottom of the borehole without forcing or ramming. The following drilling precautions shall be observed:\n\n1. Only poles made of wood or plastic that have no metal parts shall be used for loading or tamping explosives.\n\n2. Explosives shall be set in place or pressed in place by steady, even pressure with the tamping pole, avoiding forceful blows.\n\n5607.12.1 Protective covering.\n\nBlasting mats or other approved protective measures shall be used to prevent the ejection of projectiles in accordance with FC 5607.12.1.1 through 5607.12.1.4.\n\n5607.12.1.1 Open cut and under-decking blasting.\n\nBefore firing explosives, blasting mats or other approved protective measures, made of woven matting rope, rubber tire, steel cable or other approved material, shall be placed as necessary to prevent the ejection of projectiles. The type, amount and manner of application of the protective covering is subject to approval.\n\n5607.12.1.2 Tunnel blasting.\n\nBlasting mats or other approved protective measures may not be required when the heading to be blasted is situated more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) from the mouth or opening of a tunnel and is at least 10 feet (3048 mm) below the outer surface of the surrounding rock.\n\n5607.12.1.3 Shaft blasting.\n\nWhen shaft blasting, approved shaft covers shall be used.\n\n5607.12.1.4 Demolition blasting.\n\nThe department may waive the requirements of blasting mats or other approved covering in connection with demolition blasting upon a determination that the use of such mats would not provide protection from the blast. The blasting contractor shall take precautions to protect subsurface infrastructure from blast damage, including protecting manholes, transformers and sewer grades or covers with metal plates, timber and/or soil. The blasting contractor shall take such other precautions as the department may prescribe in the interest of public safety.\n\n5607.13 Removal of excess explosives.\n\nAfter loading for a blast is completed and before firing, excess explosives shall be removed from the area and returned to the proper storage facilities.\n\n5607.14 Initiation.\n\nThe initiation of blasts shall be by means conforming to the provisions of NFPA 495.\n\n5607.15 Connections.\n\nThe blaster shall supervise the connecting of the blastholes and the connection of the lead line to the power source or initiation point. Connections shall be made progressively from the blasthole back to the initiation point. Blasting machines and all other equipment used to fire blasts shall be under the personal supervision of the blaster. Blasting lead lines shall remain shunted or short circuited and shall not be connected to the blasting machine or other source of current until the blast is to be fired.\n\n5607.16 Firing control.\n\nNo blast shall be fired until the blaster has made certain that all excess explosives are in a safe location in accordance with FC 5607.13, all persons and equipment are at a safe distance or under sufficient cover, and that an adequate warning signal has been given. The blaster shall be the last person to leave the blast area. The blaster shall fire each shot or designate the apprentice blaster to do so, provided the apprentice blaster is in a direct line of sight of the blaster and awaits the firing signal which only the blaster shall give.\n\n5607.16.1 Blast warning signal system.\n\nA shot shall be fired as soon as possible after loading is complete. An audible warning signal made by an air whistle, air horn or other similar device shall sound before each shot is fired. All personnel working in or near the blast area shall be familiar with the warning signal system. Signs describing the warning signal system shall be posted at conspicuous locations at the job site, as approved by the department. The following audible warning signal system shall be used:\n\n1. One long signal – Preparing to blast, (clear the blast area).\n\n2. Two short signals – Ready to blast, (after the blaster checks that the blast area is clear).\n\n3. Three short signals – All clear, (after the blaster completes post-blast procedures).\n\n5607.17 Post-blasting procedures.\n\nAfter the blast, the following procedures shall be observed:\n\n1. Immediately after the blast has been fired, the firing line on electrically initiated shots shall be disconnected from the blasting machine. No person shall return to the blast area until allowed to do so by the blaster.\n\n2. The blaster shall allow 20 minutes time for smoke and fumes to dissipate and for dust to settle before returning to or approaching the blast area.\n\n3. The blaster shall inspect the entire blast area for misfires before allowing other personnel to return to the blast area. No mucking or drilling operations shall take place until all misfires are rendered safe in accordance with FC 5607.18. Once mucking commences, the blasting crew shall continuously check for undetonated cartridges, wrappers, caps and cap wires, which shall be removed from the muck pile prior to haulage to rock dumps, and handled in accordance with FC 5604.10.\n\n4. In demolition blasting, the muck pile shall be wetted down and the blasting crew shall make a second search for undetonated explosives as set forth in FC 5607.17(3). The blasting contractor shall restore adjacent buildings and structures to their pre-existing condition by removing all dust, dirt and debris caused by blasting operations.\n\n5. If blast impacts exceed the permissible limits in FC 5607.19.1, as determined by the blast monitoring specialist, blasting shall cease immediately and the blaster and/or other trained and knowledgeable representatives of the blasting contractor shall immediately investigate whether there is any damage to the affected buildings or structures.\n\n5607.18 Misfires.\n\nWhere a misfire is suspected, all initiating circuits shall be traced and a search made for unexploded charges. Where a misfire is found, the blaster shall immediately implement safeguards in compliance with the following requirements:\n\n1. Cordon off and otherwise secure the blast area from entry.\n\n2. Report the misfire to the department in accordance with FC 5603.5.\n\n3. No other work shall be performed except that necessary to remove the hazard of the misfire.\n\n4. No attempt shall be made to extract explosives from any charged or misfired hole; a new primer shall be loaded and the hole reblasted, if such action does not present a hazard. If refiring of the misfired hole presents a hazard, the explosives may be removed by washing out with water or blown out with air.\n\n5. No drilling, digging, or picking shall be allowed until all missed holes have been detonated or the blaster determines that work can proceed, but no drilling shall be conducted into a previously fired hole.\n\n6. All misfires and the disposition of explosives involved shall be recorded on forms prescribed by the commissioner.\n\n5607.19 Monitoring blast impacts.\n\nThe owner or the owner's blasting contractor shall retain a seismic services consultant holding a blast monitoring certificate to monitor ground vibrations and air overpressure during blasting operations. Measurements of ground vibrations and air overpressure shall be taken each time explosives are detonated. Such monitoring and recording shall be personally conducted by a blast monitoring specialist holding a certificate of fitness operations in accordance with this section, the rules and the approved blast monitoring plan required by FC 5607.2.3.\n\n5607.19.1 Limits.\n\nThe limits for ground vibrations and air overpressure and other impacts associated with blasting operations shall be as set forth in FC 5607.19.1.1 through 5607.19.1.4.\n\nFC Table 5607.19.1 Maximum Allowable Ground Vibrations from Blasting Operations\n\nLimit A:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMaximum allowable PPV for any building or structure, except those subject to the higher Limit B or in a fragile or vibration-sensitive condition determined to require a lower limit.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLimit B:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMaximum allowable PPV for all buildings and structures four stories or taller in height, except those with landmark or historical status or in a fragile or vibration-sensitive condition.\n\n5607.19.1.1 Ground vibrations.\n\nGround vibrations, measured in terms of peak particle velocity (PPV), shall not exceed the limits set forth in FC Table 5607.19.1. The maximum acceptable level diverges above 80 Hertz depending on the construction type of the most vulnerable building or other structure that will be affected by the blast.\n\n5607.19.1.2 Maximum allowable global tensile wall strain.\n\nUnless otherwise authorized by the department, the blast monitoring specialist shall ensure that appropriate equipment is utilized, in accordance with the rules, to enable the calculation of global tensile wall strain after each blast. If peak particle velocity (PPV) limits set forth in FC Table 5607.19.1 are exceeded, then measurements obtained from structure-mounted geophones shall be used to compute global shear wall strain and subsequently the maximum global tensile wall strain over the entire height of the building or structure for each of two perpendicular structure walls closest to the blast. Global tensile wall strain, computed from the maximum time-correlated differential displacement time histories measured between the upper and lower portions of the building or structure, shall not exceed:\n\n1. 25 µ-strains in any one of two conjoined walls closest to the blast for structures consisting of fragile aged interior plaster and other vibration-sensitive materials, and landmark structures; and\n\n2. 50 µ-strains for buildings constructed of modern drywall in or after 1950.\n\n5607.19.1.3 Air overpressure.\n\nAir overpressure shall be measured by one or more overpressure microphones mounted at multiple outdoor locations selected by the blast monitoring specialist to monitor the impact of air overpressure, including the closest building or structure, vulnerable buildings or other areas of concern, and other suitable locations. Additionally, in all cases where air overpressure upon structures of concern is required to be monitored, including demolition, tunnel blasting, and underwater blasting, structure-mounted geophones shall be utilized as required by the rules.\n\n5607.19.1.3.1 Maximum air overpressure.\n\nAir overpressure, as measured on the building or other structure nearest the blast, shall not exceed 0.0146 psi (134 dBL).\n\n5607.19.1.3.2 Calculation of global tensile wall strain.\n\nUnless otherwise authorized by the department, if the maximum air overpressure specified in FC 5607.19.1.3.1 is exceeded, global tensile wall strain shall be calculated in accordance with FC 5607.19.1.2 and the limits specified therein shall apply.\n\n5607.19.1.4 Noise.\n\nVibration and noise shall not exceed the limits established by the Metropolitan Transit Authority, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Transportation and Department of Buildings and other agencies responsible for ensuring the structural integrity of affected buildings, structures and infrastructure.\n\n5607.19.2 Ordering discontinuance of blasting operations.\n\nThe blast monitoring specialist shall have the authority to order the blasting contractor and blaster to discontinue blasting operations upon a determination that a blast has exceeded the limits in FC 5607.19.1. If a blast exceeds permissible limits, the blast monitoring specialist shall immediately notify the blaster and/or other representative of the blasting contractor with authority to halt blasting operations. Upon such notification, the blaster and/or other blasting contractor representative shall immediately discontinue all blasting operations, notify the department in accordance with FC 5607.19.4.1, and initiate an investigation in accordance with the blasting plan into whether there is any damage to the affected buildings or structures. Where the investigation identifies any unsafe conditions or conditions that further blasting might cause to become unsafe, blasting operations shall not resume until approved mitigation measures have been implemented in accordance with FC 5607.9.6 and as otherwise required by the department.\n\n5607.19.3 Equipment.\n\nWhen measuring ground vibrations and air overpressure, a blast monitoring specialist shall utilize one or more blasting seismographs and a sufficient number of geophones and microphones to monitor the impact of blasting operations on buildings, structures and infrastructure of concern, in accordance with the rules. Such equipment shall meet the standards set forth in the rules.\n\n5607.19.4 Reporting.\n\nA blast monitoring specialist shall comply with reporting requirements in accordance with FC 5607.19.4.1 through FC 5607.19.4.4.\n\n5607.19.4.1 Immediate notification.\n\nWhen a blast produces air overpressure, peak particle velocity, or global tensile wall strain in excess of the permissible limits set forth in FC 5607.19.1, the blast monitoring specialist shall order blasting operations to cease in accordance with FC 5607.19.2 and immediately notify the department.\n\n5607.19.4.2 Daily reporting.\n\nThe blast monitoring specialist shall ensure that the department receives real-time and other reporting as required by the department on a daily basis during blasting operations.\n\n5607.20 Recordkeeping.\n\nA copy of the pre-blasting survey, the blasting plan for demolition blasting, the blasting patterns utilized for excavation blasting operations, and the vibration and air overpressure measurements required by this section, shall be maintained at the job site until the completion of blasting operations, and, together with any post-blasting survey required by FC 5607.22, shall thereafter be kept by the owner or the owner's blasting contractor for a period of 3 years from the completion of blasting operations at the job site. Such records shall be made available for inspection by any representative of the department and the Department of Buildings.\n\n5607.20.1 Blasting seismograph data.\n\nThe event files recorded by blasting seismographs shall be made available to the department \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tfor inspection upon request.\n\n5607.21 Interagency coordination.\n\nThe department shall develop and establish a protocol with the Department of Buildings, Department of Emergency Management and such other agencies as the department determines to be necessary and appropriate, by which notification of blasting operations and reporting of unsafe conditions and complaints is to be coordinated.\n\n5607.22 Post-blasting survey.\n\nThe owner and/or its general contractor or blasting contractor shall retain the services of a professional engineer, licensed to practice in New York State, to conduct a post-blasting survey in accordance with 5607.22.1 through 5607.22.2.\n\n5607.22.1 Demolition blasting.\n\nWhenever demolition blasting is conducted, such professional engineer shall, upon the completion of the blasting operations at the job site, conduct a structural survey of all of the buildings, structures and infrastructure previously surveyed and submit to the department a report documenting the elevations of the vertical control points and the absence of any observable changes in the pre-existing condition of such buildings, structures and infrastructure, or identifying any changes and the conclusions to be drawn therefrom. Elevations of the control points shall again be measured by such professional engineer at intervals of 1 and 6 months after the completion of the demolition work, and a report containing this data, and conclusions to be drawn therefrom, shall be promptly submitted to the department as an addendum to the original post-blasting survey.\n\n5607.22.2 Excavation blasting.\n\nThe department may require the owner, the owner's general contractor, or the owner's blasting contractor to retain such a professional engineer to conduct a post-blasting survey at any time during or upon the completion of blasting operations upon a determination that such a survey is necessary or appropriate as a result of ground vibration levels exceeding the reporting level set by the department, or other good cause.","path":["New York City Administrative Code","Title 29","Chapter 2: New York City Fire Code"],"source_url":"https://files.amlegal.com/pdffiles/NewYorkCity/Admin/XML.zip","current_through":"Local Law 2026/135 (enacted August 31, 2026)","vintage":"","retrieved_at":"2026-09-06T02:48:57Z","sha256":"406f1e7a7dcf4b117164194655870019b2abc06400b6963cca207d51e5ea36b5","source_id":"us-nyc","stale":true,"prev":"us-nyc/n.y.c.-admin.-code-fc-5606","next":"us-nyc/n.y.c.-admin.-code-fc-5608"},"notice":"GroundRules: Original legal text. Not legal advice."}