After a mishap involving explosives, what procedural step is critical?

Immediate reporting to the local safety office is a critical procedural step after a mishap involving explosives because it ensures that the incident is officially documented and investigated as soon as possible. Early reporting allows for a quick response to assess the situation, implement necessary safety measures, and prevent any further incidents. This procedure is vital not only for compliance with safety regulations but also for the protection of personnel and facilities.

Additionally, reporting helps gather accurate data about the mishap, which is essential for identifying causes and contributing factors. This information is used to improve safety protocols and provide enhanced training for personnel to mitigate future risks.

The other options, while important in their own contexts, do not have the same immediacy or critical nature as reporting the incident right away. Damage assessments, reviewing past training records, and scheduling follow-ups with drills are actions that can come after the initial report, but the priority is to notify the proper safety authorities first to ensure comprehensive response measures are taken.