Course overview
This course is self-paced and fully online and overviews avalanche mitigation techniques, regulations, and safety procedures, with an emphasis on practical decision-making and operational readiness. Participants build a fundamental understanding of avalanche mitigation tools and technologies, along with supporting concepts in avalanche and snow science and detonation physics. The course is designed for those looking to advance beyond the classroom into a highly specialized setting and gain career-relevant expertise.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
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Describe common avalanche mitigation techniques and when they are used
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Explain core safety procedures and operational considerations for mitigation work
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Identify regulatory considerations applicable to avalanche mitigation operations
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Explain foundational avalanche and snow science concepts relevant to stability and mitigation decision-making
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Compare mitigation methods, including pros and cons, and identify appropriate use cases
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Explain factors that influence mitigation effectiveness (snow properties, slope angle, elevation, charge shape, and charge weight)
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Describe explosive selection considerations for avalanche mitigation applications
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Explain basic detonation physics concepts as they relate to avalanche mitigation
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Demonstrate understanding of course material through quizzes and a final written examination
Topics covered
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History of avalanche mitigation
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Avalanche and snow science fundamentals
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Mitigation methods (with pros and cons)
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Regulations and safety procedures for mitigation operations
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Explosive selection for avalanche mitigation
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Effects of snow properties, slope angle, elevation, charge shape, and charge weight
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Detonation physics and related concepts
Course structure
The syllabus outline currently lists three weeks/sections, but the detailed week-by-week topics shown are placeholder text (“Lorem ipsum”). You may present the course as modular/self-paced until the final week-by-week outline is added.
Quizzes
Quizzes on material covered in lectures may be given at any time during the course to assess comprehension.
Attendance and assignments
Timely completion of assignments is required. Homework and assignments should be completed before moving on to the next lecture/section.
Final written examination and certificate
A final written examination will demonstrate student learning. Upon successful completion of course requirements, participants will receive a certificate of completion.
Instructor / organization
Petr Explosives Group is a private explosives training company based in Golden, Colorado. The company was founded by Dr. Vilem Petr, a former Colorado School of Mines professor with over 20 years of experience in explosive education, research, and industry. Lectures may include guest speakers from government and explosives engineering industry experts.
Course text
Explosives Engineering — Paul W. Cooper.
