The two greatest hazards to explosives in a specific workload are:

• A. Water and Humidity
• B. Mechanical Shock
• C. Cold Temperatures
• D. Fire and Excessive Heat

Answer: (D)

Explosives are highly sensitive to temperature changes, and heat acts as a readily available energy source that can initiate or accelerate a reaction. Fire or excessive heat can push the material to its ignition point, causing detonation or a rapid energy release, and flames or hot surfaces are common in many work environments, making this hazard pervasive and immediate. Moisture and cold can affect stability and handling, and mechanical shock can trigger initiation for some formulations, but neither is as universally dangerous as heat and fire. Controlling heat sources, keeping explosives away from flames, and preventing exposure to high temperatures are essential safety priorities to prevent explosive accidents.