Course overview
This course provides a practical, applied overview of federal and state explosives laws and regulations. Participants learn how the regulatory framework impacts permitting, transportation, storage, and operational compliance, and how to resolve real regulatory issues through effective documentation and communication with authorities. The course also compares requirements across different states and highlights key similarities and differences to help learners work confidently across jurisdictions and support career advancement.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
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Explain key terms and definitions used in explosives regulation
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Describe core ATF explosives laws and regulatory requirements
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Identify major federal transportation and explosives-related regulatory sections referenced in the course
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Use industry guidance resources (including IME publications and American Table of Distances concepts) to support compliance decisions
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Understand definitions and test procedures related to ammonium nitrate and key parameters that affect regulatory handling
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Compare state-by-state licensing and storage requirements and recognize similarities and differences
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Apply for explosives permits and variances
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Communicate with fire departments and law enforcement agencies regarding magazine storage and quantity limits
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Troubleshoot and resolve regulatory issues with federal and state regulators
Topics covered
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ATF explosives laws and regulations
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Federal transportation-related regulations referenced in the course
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Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME) publications
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American Table of Distances concepts
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Ammonium nitrate definitions, test procedures, and critical parameters
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State licensing and storage requirements
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Regulatory communication and issue resolution with local authorities and regulators
6-week topic outline
Week 1: Course introduction; terms & definitions; ATF – Explosives Laws & Regulations (Quiz #1)
Week 2: 49 CFR Parts 100 – 177 (inclusive); U.S. Department of Transportation sections 390–397 (Quiz #2)
Week 3: IME publications; American Table of Distances (Quiz #3)
Week 4: Definitions and test procedures for ammonium nitrate; overview of critical parameters (Quiz #4)
Week 5: License and storage requirements across different states (Quiz #5)
Week 6: Open discussion; student presentations; exam review; Final Exam; certificates
Quizzes
Quizzes on material covered in lectures may be given at any time during the course to assess comprehension.
Student presentations
Each student will choose a different state and present the regulations and laws relevant to that state. Students are also expected to answer questions about their presentations.
Attendance and assignments
Regular attendance/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 completion of course requirements, participants will receive a certificate.
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.
Course text
Explosives Engineering — Paul W. Cooper.
