Which explosives should older stocks be prioritized for use?

• A. Only traditional explosives
• B. Slurry explosives
• C. All explosives
• D. Only newly acquired explosives

Answer: (C)

Prioritizing older stocks of explosives for use is essential for several reasons, primarily focusing on safety and efficiency. All explosives, regardless of type or age, can potentially degrade over time due to environmental factors, storage conditions, and chemical stability. By using a broader range of older explosives, mine operations can effectively manage inventory levels and reduce the risk of disposing of explosives that may still be viable.

Older stocks may include various types, such as traditional explosives or newer formulations like slurry explosives. Depending on the specifics of the mine's operations, certain older explosives might be very effective for specific applications. Therefore, it's prudent to evaluate all explosives in the inventory to utilize what is available while ensuring safety protocols are followed.

This approach also aligns with the best practices in inventory management where older materials are rotated to minimize waste, reduce costs associated with disposal, and prevent hazardous situations related to the storage of outdated explosives. Each type of explosive may require appropriate handling, thus performing thorough assessments on them before use is necessary for optimal safety and performance.