What is the best measure against lightning induced blasting accidents?

• A. Evacuate personnel before storms
• B. Continue with loading until it rains
• C. Monitor weather conditions only
• D. Ignore lightning warnings as they are often inaccurate

Answer: (A)

Evacuating personnel before storms is the best measure against lightning-induced blasting accidents because it prioritizes the safety of all individuals present in the vicinity of the blasting area. Lightning poses a significant risk during thunderstorms, particularly in open areas where explosives are being handled and prepared for detonation. By evacuating, you minimize the risk of injury or fatality should a strike occur, as personnel would be safely away from potential hazards.

The other choices present practices that could increase risk. Continuing to load explosives until it rains does not account for the imminent danger of lightning strikes, which can occur even without rain. Monitoring weather conditions is certainly important, but it alone does not provide adequate protection or proactive measures to ensure safety. Ignoring lightning warnings would greatly increase the likelihood of an accident and does not reflect a proper safety protocol.