1926.905(h): OSHA rule
Key takeaways
- 1926.905(h) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart U).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.905(h) is one requirement inside 1926.905 Loading of explosives or blasting agents, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart U). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(h) Machines and all tools not used for loading explosives into bore holes shall be removed from the immediate location of holes before explosives are delivered. Equipment shall not be operated within 50 feet of loaded holes.
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.905.
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OSHA interpretation letters
- Restrictions on drilling within 50 feet of a hole loaded with explosives. (2010-03-05)
- Use of construction equipment around explosive loaded bore holes. (1999-06-22)
- Clarification on OSHA standards for blasting and use of explosives. (1985-04-12)
- Clarification concerning allowable drilling distance between loaded holes for a blasting operation. (1984-10-30)
- Blasting and Use of Explosives Relative. (1981-08-26)
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About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.905 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.