What is an essential property of the Nonel assembly regarding its integrity?

• A. It should be open to air
• B. It must not be cut or altered
• C. It should be painted for visibility
• D. It must be stored in water

Answer: (B)

The essential property of the Nonel assembly regarding its integrity is that it must not be cut or altered. This is critical for maintaining safety and functionality. The Nonel (Non-Electric) system is a type of detonator used in blasting, and any modification can compromise the system’s reliability and performance. When the integrity of the assembly is altered, there are risks of misfires, accidents, and even unintended detonations, which can lead to severe safety incidents.

In the context of the other options, keeping the assembly open to air could lead to oxidation or damage, painting it for visibility might interfere with its design or performance, and storing it in water could cause deterioration or malfunctions. Each of these practices could potentially endanger the effectiveness and safety of the Nonel assembly, reinforcing the importance of keeping it in its original condition and configuration.