Dates for R.A. McClure Inc.'s (RAM) Blasting and Explosives Safety Training (BEST) Course are set for Sept. 15-17, 2026, at the Crazy Horse Memorial in Crazy Horse, S.D.
The in-person course features a blend of in-class instruction and field trips of the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mt. Rushmore throughout the two-and-a-half-day conference.
Led by instructors with decades of practical experience in their respective fields, the BEST course instructs attendees on explosives regulations, safety, hazard recognition and accident prevention. Instructors also overview new product introductions related to explosives and the latest on electronic blasting systems and supporting technologies. Diving deep into safe handling of explosives, it emphasizes hazard recognition posed by deteriorated explosives.
RAM's BEST sessions are developed specifically for explosives engineers, drillers, field crews, safety personnel, D&B engineers and others working with explosives. Course topics offer value to all professionals with varied experience levels – from individuals with decades in the field to those just entering the explosives industry – and the valuable lessons learned help attendees to comply with state and federal regulations.
"Safety is the primary driving factor in the mining industry, and recognizing the hazard is key to advancing safety at the workplace," said Robert McClure, president of RAM and a BEST Course facilitator and instructor. Our BEST Course is specifically developed to improve the recognition and handling of hazardous situations, so everyone can go home safely every day."
Those attending the 2026 BEST Course receive:
Comprehensive safety instructions for commercial explosives and blasting
Regulatory updates presented by BATFE, MSHA and U.S. Department of Transportation representatives
Electronic blasting systems and supporting technologies updates
20 Continuing Education hours, course manual and certificate
Tours of Crazy Horse Memorial and Mt. Rushmore
Attendees registering for the course before July 31 will receive an early registration discount.
For more information, visit ramets.com.
