When a detonation occurs, within which time window should a search by the MWD be avoided?

• A. 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after detonation.
• B. 60 minutes before detonation.
• C. 15 minutes after detonation only.
• D. There is no restriction.

Answer: (A)

The safety window around a detonation is about protecting the dog from blast effects, debris, and hazardous conditions that can occur both before and after the event. A detonation creates shock waves and fragmentation that can reach the area even if the explosion isn’t imminent or finished yet, and lingering hazards like unstable ground or toxic fumes can persist after the blast. So, avoiding a 30-minute period on either side of detonation ensures the MWD isn’t exposed to these risks during the most dangerous moments.

That’s why this window is the best choice: it accounts for hazards that may precede as well as follow the explosion, not just one side of it. A longer pre-detonation window (like 60 minutes) isn’t standard safety practice and could unnecessarily delay operations. Limiting the restriction to a short period after detonation misses risks that can occur before the blast, and saying there’s no restriction ignores clear safety hazards.