ABSTRACT
Blast design should aim not only to optimize fragmentation, in terms of productivity and economics, but also to minimize damage to the host rock mass. This paper reviews the nature of blast-induced damage and its impact on the mining process. It considers the past experience with potential techniques for damage characterization: visual inspection and surveys; traditional damage parameters; rock mass classification; geophysical methods, and vibration analysis. Concluding observations are made on damage issues and audit procedures for mine production control.
