Consumers

The Blasting Standards Act

The Tennessee Blasting Standards Act was established to safeguard life, health, and property and to promote the public welfare through the establishment of standards and regulation of the use of explosives and blasting within the State of Tennessee. Tennessee Code Annotated Title 68, Chapter 105, establishes the requirements for blasters, handlers, and firms.

What Role Does the State Fire Marshal’s Office Play?

The State Fire Marshal’s Office (“SFMO”) is charged with the duty to enforce the Blasting Standards Act. No person, firm, association, corporation, or other entity can purchase, receive, or take possession of explosives without first obtaining registration from the Department of Commerce and Insurance. The Act requires handlers, blasters, and blasting firms to obtain a license to detonate explosives in blasting operations in the State of Tennessee. The state fire marshal oversees the registration process to ensure applicants seeking licensure are qualified. 

The SFMO also has the duty to investigate blasting complaints received from the public. The fire marshal will determine if there has been a violation of the Blasting Standards Act. If a violation is found, the department may refuse to grant, or may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew licensing, and may assess a civil penalty. 

Our mission is to ensure safeguards are in place and appropriate protocols are followed to protect and better serve the families, communities, and citizens of Tennessee.

Blasting Advisory Council (BAC)

The Council shall consist of twelve (12) members, with each term lasting three (3) years. Membership shall include manufacturers, distributors, and users of commercial explosives. A minimum of six (6) members shall be registered as blasters. Three (3) members shall be representatives from other interested agencies. The members shall elect a chair of the advisory council for the three-year term. All members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the commissioner. The advisory council shall meet at least two (2) times every calendar year. Special meetings may be held at such times it is deemed necessary by the chair of the advisory council or by three (3) members of such
council. It is the duty of the advisory council to assist the department in developing reasonable policies and regulations that will protect public safety while promoting efficiency and effectiveness.

The Blasting Advisory Council currently consists of: Eight (8) registered blasters, and four (4) members of other interested agencies.