Improvements of safety conditions of unstable rock slopes through the use of explosives

The paper discusses operations aimed at creating a safer natural or man made rock slope by artificially induc- ing the displacement of unstable elements by blasting. A detailed analysis of the problems with the use of explosives present when conducting these activities is carried out focus- ing on the advantages and disadvantages of this technology. The results of two examples of demolition of instable rock elements are presented and discussed thus providing sugges- tions for future blasting designs.