True or False: Primers must never be tamped with.

True or False: Primers must never be tamped with.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (A)

Primers are highly sensitive initiating devices; any mechanical impact or pressure can trigger them. Tamping applies force to the primer, potentially causing it to detonate unexpectedly or in an uncontrolled way. Because of this risk, primers must never be tamped with and should only be handled according to approved procedures and by qualified personnel, with the proper firing system in place. The safety rule is absolute—there’s no safe scenario for tamping a primer—so the statement is true.

Primers are highly sensitive initiating devices; any mechanical impact or pressure can trigger them. Tamping applies force to the primer, potentially causing it to detonate unexpectedly or in an uncontrolled way. Because of this risk, primers must never be tamped with and should only be handled according to approved procedures and by qualified personnel, with the proper firing system in place. The safety rule is absolute—there’s no safe scenario for tamping a primer—so the statement is true.