Flyrock risk assessment in blasting operations of road construction in hard rock using the FFTA-FDAHP method

Creating a safe environment is of utmost importance in any project. One crucial aspect of ensuring safety is addressing potential hazards. In the context of road construction projects involving hard rock, one significant risk is flyrock. Flyrock refers to the occurrence of fragments being propelled outside the blast area with high energy and speed during blasting operations. These flying rock fragments have the potential to cause severe and irreversible injuries to both people and equipment. The objective of this research is to identify and assess the risks associated with flyrock in road construction projects involving hard rock. To accomplish this, a collaborative approach was adopted, involving experts, analysis of scientific records, as well as observations and inspections. A thorough examination revealed a total of 54 flyrock events, which were prioritized for further analysis. To quantify the probability of flyrock occurrence, a fuzzy fault tree analysis was employed. This analysis method takes into account various factors and uncertainties to yield a calculated value of 0.4907, indicating the likelihood of flyrock incidents. Additionally, the intensity of flyrock consequences was determined to be 0.2248 using the fuzzy Delphi analytical hierarchical process. These assessments collectively indicate the potential severity of flyrock incidents. Based on the evaluations conducted, the resulting risk number associated with flyrock reached an undesirable level of 12. It highlights the imperative need to recognize and evaluate the risks posed by flyrock during road construction projects. By doing so, appropriate measures can be implemented to mitigate the occurrence of flyrock and minimize potential harm to individuals and equipment. Recognizing and understanding the risks associated with flyrock is a crucial step towards improving safety in road construction projects involving hard rock. Through the insights gained from this research, proactive measures can be taken to prevent flyrock incidents and ensure a safe working environment for all involved.