What changes the insurance assessment

Licences; type and quantity of explosives; storage and transport responsibilities; blast design and supervision; exclusion zones; neighbouring structures; vibration monitoring; mine/quarry/urban split; misfire procedures; subcontractors.

Covers to discuss

Public/products liability and specific explosives acceptance, pollution where relevant, plant, contract works and PI for blast design or technical services. Review blast/vibration and statutory liability restrictions without promising availability.

Blasting activity and controls

Disclose the explosive type, quantities, storage and transport arrangements, blast frequency, sites and proximity to people, utilities or structures. Identify who designs and approves the blast plan, who performs vibration monitoring and how exclusion zones and misfires are managed. Differentiate controlled quarry blasting from demolition blasting or work near occupied assets.

Explosives are often specifically excluded or tightly conditioned, so obtain an express insurer response rather than relying on a generic contractor description. Discuss vibration, flyrock, pollution, property damage and any professional design component. Contract works and plant cover may also need separate review for the property exposed during the operation.

Information to prepare

Provide a clear description and turnover split of your activities, locations, project values, required liability limits, licences, subcontractor arrangements, current policy and claims history. Include relevant contracts and methods for the higher-risk work. We will identify any further information underwriters need.

Questions contractors ask

“Will a standard construction liability policy cover blasting?” Do not assume so. “Is blast design covered by public liability?” Professional services need separate review.

Public and products liability guide · Contract works · D&C PI

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