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Record Type: Instruction
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Directive Number: CPL 2.73
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Subject: Fireworks Manufacturer: Compliance Policy
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Information Date: 02/03/1986
OSHA Instruction CPL 2.73 FEB 3, 1986 Office of General Industry Compliance
Assistance
Subject: Fireworks Manufacturers: Compliance Policy
A. Purpose. This instruction implements guidelines for the safety inspection
of Fireworks Manufacturers under the National Emphasis Program (NEP).
B. Scope. This instruction applies OSHA-wide.
C. Reference. 1. OSHA Instruction CPL 2.45A, April 18, 1983.
2. OSHA Instruction CPL 2.67, August 8, 1985.
D. Action. Regional Administrators and Area Directors shall ensure that
the procedures established in this instruction are adhered to in scheduling
programmed inspections.
E. Federal Program Change. This instruction describes a Federal program
change which affects State programs. Each Regional Administrator shall:
1. Ensure that this change is promptly forwarded to each State designee
2. Explain the technical content of this change to the State designee
as requested.
3. Ensure that State designees are asked to acknowledge receipt of this
Federal program change in writing, within 30 days of notification, to the
Regional Administrator. This acknowledgment should include a description
either of the State's plan to implement the change or of the reasons why
the change should not apply to that State.
4. Review policies, instructions and guidelines issued by the State
to determine if this change has been communicated to State program personnel.
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F. Background. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
has established a National Emphasis Program (NEP) for the safety inspection
of all fireworks manufacturers by the end of FY 1986. (See OSHA Instruction
CPL 2.67.)
1. All current OSHA regulations, standards, and field operation procedures,
as modified by the guidelines given in this instruction, apply to the conduct
of these NEP inspections in the same way that they apply to any other inspection.
2. While there are no comprehensive and detailed OSHA standards applying
specifically to the fireworks manufacturing industry, several general standards
under CFR 1910.109 do apply.
3. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has issued a consensus
standard for the industry, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, and
Storage of Fireworks, NFPA 1124, published in 1984. This code is based
on an earlier 1974 edition with the same title, but designated as NFPA
44A.
4. The agency's general policy on the use of consensus standards not
adopted by OSHA has been stated in the Field Operations Manual (FOM), Chapter
IV, A. 2. b. (2), under the General Duty clause, Section 5(a) (1) of the
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.
a. That policy is that OSHA will cite consensus standards when industry
recognition of the hazards is established. That is generally accomplished
when the industry itself, or its representatives, have participated on
the committee drafting the consensus standards.
b. The American Pyrotechnics Association was represented on the NFPA
Committee on Pyrotechnics as well as at least one manufacturer.
c. These factors provide evidence that those hazards addressed within
NFPA 1124 are recognized as such within the fireworks manufacturing industry.
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5. OSHA will cite serious violations of the NFPA 1124 consensus standard
under 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1) in accordance with the guidelines given in
1.2.
6. The fireworks manufacturing industry is also regulated in part by
the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) of the Department of
the Treasury. The relevant jurisdictional issues have been discussed in
OSHA Instruction CPL 2.67.
a. It should be noted that BATF regulates only Class B fireworks, not
Class C. (See Appendix B, pp.B-2 and -3) OSHA, therefore, has sole jurisdiction
with regard to Class C fireworks.
b. CSHOs shall be familiar with BATF requirements for Class B fireworks
and shall be watchful for apparent violations of those requirements. If
any are observed, referrals shall be made to the local BATF office as soon
as practicable.
c. Such referrals shall be made by personal contact, followed by a referral
letter to both the local field office and the National BATF Office. (See
Appendix C, p. C-2.)
G. Scope. There are some restrictions currently applying to enforcement
activity within the fireworks industry, as outlined in OSHA Instruction
CPL 2.67. The current Appropriations Act exempts from coverage under the
NEP employers classified in certain SIC codes, including 2899, if they
employ fewer than 11 workers. However, employers having fewer than 11 employees
on site the day of an inspection are included in the program if, at any
time of the year, they employed more than 10 employees.
1. The NEP applies to:
a. All fireworks manufacturing employers employing more than 10 employees
at any time during the year;
b. All fireworks importers, dealers, and users who also manufacture
or assemble the final fireworks product;
c. Both licensed and unlicensed manufacturers.
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2. With regard to unlicensed manufacturers, however, if CSHOs become
aware of such a facility and there is reason to believe that it is required
to be licensed, they shall NOT attempt to inspect the facility but instead
shall notify BATF as soon as practicable.
3. In addition, if CSHOs determine, during the inspection of a licensed
facility, that illegal fireworks a re being manufactured, they shall report
this information to the BATF at the conclusion of the inspection. They
shall NOT discuss the illegality of these devices with the employer.
NOTE: Two of the most common illegal fireworks devices are M-80's and
cherry bombs. (See Appendix B for a description of these devices.)
H. Full-Service Activities. The agency has a special emphasis consultation
program in the fireworks manufacturing industry. (See OSHA Instruction
TED 3.6.) CSHOs shall make every effort to help employers improve the safety
and health conditions in their establishments.
NOTE: In the event that a CSHO finds a consultant onsite at the time
of arrival, the consultant's visit shall be terminated in favor of the
compliance inspection under 29 CFR 1908.6 (b) (2) (v) Fireworks inspections
have been determined by the Assistant Secretary to be an "other critical
inspection."
1. Even where OSHA will not be issuing citations, fireworks manufacturers
shall be encouraged to implement all recommendations of NFPA 1124 as well
as those of other applicable consensus standards. 2. During NEP site visits,
CSHO's should also refer employers to other appropriate NFPA standards,
such as NFPA 68-1978, Guide for Explosion Venting; NFPA 69-1978, Standard
on Explosion Systems Prevention; NFPA 77-1933, Recommended Practices on
Static Electricity; NFPA 79-1983, Lighting Protection Code; NFPA 220-1979,
Standard on Types of Building Construction; NFPA 498-1982, Standard for
Explosives Motor Vehicle Terminals.
I. Inspection Guidelines. Workers in fireworks manufacturing facilities
are confronted by both safety and health hazards,
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but by far the greatest threat comes from fires and explosions. The
material that follows identifies and classifies these hazards, the engineering
and work practice controls and the personal protective equipment that can
be used to minimize them and the enforcement policy governing the issuance
of citations as a result of hazards found during inspections conducted
under the NEP.
1. General Citation Policy. When inspecting fireworks facilities as
part of this NEP, CSHOs shall cite violations of OSHA standards wherever
they are applicable.
a. OSHA standards are applicable to fireworks manufacturing facilities,
including some provisions of 29 CFR 1910.109, Explosives and Blasting Agents.
b. Serious violations of applicable requirements of the recognized industry
standard, NFPA 1124, shall be cited under 29 CFR 1910.109,(b) (1) of the
Explosives and Blasting Agents standard, which states:
No person shall store, handle, or transport explosives or blasting agents
when such storage, handling, and transportation of explosives or blasting
agents constitutes an undue hazard to life.
c. Such violations shall not be cited under the general duty clause
of the Act (Section 5 (a) (1)).
d. The SAVE for such citations shall be as follows:
29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1): Explosives or blasting agents were stored, handled
or transported in such a manner as to constitute an undue hazard to life:
(a) (LOCATION) (IDENTIFY SPECIFIC OPERATIONS AND/OR CONDITIONS) (DESCRIBE
THE HAZARD AND SPECIFY THE NATIONAL CONSENSUS STANDARD AND PARAGRAPH WHICH
RECOGNIZES THE HAZARD)
e. Since the standard addresses three hazard areas: storage, handling,
and transportation, 29 CFR
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1910.109(b) (1) may be cited separately for storage (Class C fireworks)
violations, for handling (manufacturing) violations, and for transportation
violations.
2. Citations Under 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1). The citation of 29 CFR 1910.109(b)
(1) is, for all practical purposes, equivalent to citations under Section
5(a) (1) and under other general standards, such as 1910.132 (a)
a. Consequently, the proof elements outlined in FOM Chapter IV, A.2,
shall be addressed to establish a violation of 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1)
b. In addition, proof of industry practice, such as is required for
other general standards, shall also be obtained for violations of 29 CFR
1910. 109 (b) (1).
(1) For the purpose of building a file of current industry practice,
CSHOs inspecting fireworks manufacturing establishments shall document
all observed good safety and health practices on the OSHA-1A, with particular,
though not exclusive, attention to those practices recommended by NFPA
1124.
(2) Copies of all OSHA-1As documenting such good practices by fireworks
manufacturers shall be forwarded by the Area Director to the Director of
Technical Support through the Regional Administrator and the Director of
Field Operations for entry into the appropriate data base.
(3) In the event of a contested case, the Regional Administrator may
contact the Director of Technical Support for copies of relevant OSHA-1As.
c. 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1) , by its very language, "undue hazard to life,"
requires that any violation be serious before it can be cited. Other-than-serious
hazards, therefore, may not be cited.
J. Safety Hazards. As noted in I.2.c, only serious violations of NFPA
1124 requirements may be cited under 29 CFR 1910.
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109(b) (1). In the following discussion, those requirements of NFPA
1124 that may be classified as serious are indicated by the use of the
word, shall, and those which cannot be cited are identified by the use
of the word, should.
NOTE: 1. It is recognized that NFPA 1124 itself uses "shall" consistently.
In accordance with the language of 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1), however, only
hazards judged to be serious can be cited; and only those are denoted with
"shall" in the paragraphs that follow.
2. The hazards denoted with "should" in the following paragraphs are
not to be ignored, however, even though they cannot be cited. CSHOs shall
urge employers to implement all of the recommendations found in the consensus
standard.
1. Construction of Buildings. All process buildings on a fireworks manufacturing
site should be constructed so as to reduce the danger to employees of fires
and explosions.
a. Such buildings should not exceed one story in height and should be
built without basements or subfloors (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-7.2).
b. The same code requires breakaway construction; i.e., deliberate construction
of one weak wall or roof that will give easily in the event of an explosion
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-7.1). The weak wall should be built facing away
from other process or storage buildings, so that any explosion will be
directed away from other explosive materials.
c. Process buildings should have interior wall and ceiling surfaces
that are smooth and free of cracks and crevices (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-7.3).
d. The interior finish of process buildings should be made of material
that is noncombustible or of limited combustibility (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-7.3). There should be no exposed nailheads.
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e. Wall joints and openings for wiring, plumbing, and other utilities
should be sealed to prevent dust from entering the building (NFPA 1124,
paragraph 2-7.3.1).
f. The number and extent of horizontal ledges and surfaces on which
dust could settle and accumulate should be minimized (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-7.4).
g. The floors and work surfaces of process buildings should not have
cracks or crevices where particles of explosive material could lodge (NFPA
1124, paragraph 2-7.5).
NOTE: Although J.1.c. and J.1.e. through g. are recommendations in themselves,
they may serve as a basis for a citation of 29 CFR 1910.22 if there is
a measurable buildup of explosive composition. (See J.10.)
2. Egress and Minimum Occupancy Requirements. Egress standards (1910.36
and 37) apply to all buildings on fireworks manufacturing sites and shall
be cited if violated. Particular attention shall be paid to the following
recommendations:
a. From every point in every undivided floor area of more than 100 square
feet, there should be at least two remotely located exits (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-8.2 (a))
b. Where process buildings are divided into rooms, there should be at
least two means of escape from each room of more than 100 square feet (NFPA
1124, paragraph 2-8.2(b))
EXCEPTION: Toilet rooms need have only one exit, provided they are located
away from or suitably shielded from process areas.
c. Exit doors should open outward and should be capable of being Pressure-actuated
from the inside (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-8.2(d))
d. The number of occupants in any process building and in any magazine
should not exceed the number
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1124, paragraph 2-10.1).
e. The maximum number of occupants permitted in any process building
and in any magazine should be posted in a conspicuous location in each
process building or magazine (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-10.1.1)
3. Minimum Safe Distances. One of the most important features of plant
layout from the point of view of protecting employees from the effects
of fires and explosions is the strict observance of minimum separation
distances between different process buildings.
a. The minimum distances that shall be maintained between different
process buildings and between process buildings and nonprocess buildings
are shown in columns 3 and 4 of Table 1.
b. CSHOs shall cite apparent violations of the distance requirements
in column 4 up to 500 pounds of explosives and pyrotechnic material. Using
available data, CSHOs shall determine the quantity and type of explosive
or pyrotechnic material being handled so that they can use the minimum
safe distances table appropriately.
NOTE: Violations involving more than 500 pounds shall be referred to
BATF in accordance with J.5.
c. Violations of the distance requirements of column 3 apply to assembled
Class C devices and shall be cited only if a serious hazard is documented.
d. Separation distances required to be maintained between magazines
and process and nonprocess buildings at a fireworks plant are shown in
columns 1 and 2 of Table 1.
e. CSHOs shall cite apparent violations of the distance requirements
between magazines or storage buildings and process and nonprocess buildings
shown in column 2 up to 500 pounds of explosive or pyrotechnic composition.
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Table 1
Minimum Separation Distances at Fireworks Manufacturing Plants
___________________________________________________________________________
Distance of Magazines and Storage Distance Between Process Buildings
from Buildings and Between Net Weight Process Buildings and Process and
Fireworks1 Nonprocess Buildings4 Nonprocess Buildings
___________________________________________________________________________
Class C Class B Class C Class B Fireworks2 Fireworks3 Fireworks2 Fireworks3
Pounds Feet Feet Feet Feet
100 30 30 37 57 200 30 35 37 69 400 30 44 37 85 600 30 51 37 97 800
30 56 37 105 1,000 30 60 37 112 2,000 30 76 37 172 3,000 35 87 48 222 4,000
38 95 60 264 5,000 42 103 67 300 6,000 45 109 72 331 8,000 50 120 78 382
10,000 54 129 82 423
__________________________________________________________________________
1 Net weight is the weight of all pyrotechnic and explosive compositions
and fuse only.
2 Distances apply with or without barricades or screen-type barricades.
3 Distances apply only with barricades or screen-type barricades.
4 Distances include those between magazines, between storage buildings,
between magazines and storage buildings, and between magazines or storage
buildings from process buildings and nonprocess buildings.
Adapted from National Fire Protection Association, 1984, Manufacture,
Transportation, and Storage of Fireworks, NFPA No. 1124, p. 8.
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NOTE: Violations involving more than 500 pounds or incorrect distances
between magazines or storage buildings shall be referred to BATF in accordance
with J.5.
f. Violations of the distance requirements in column 1 apply to assembled
Class C fireworks and shall be enforced only when a serious hazard is documented.
g. OSHA strongly recommends that the quantity/distance table also apply
to outside process areas. Such areas should also be separated in accordance
with the quantity/distance table.
4. Use of Barricades. The use of artificial or natural barricades to
screen magazines and buildings on site from the effects of an explosion
in a magazine or process building is strongly recommended.
a. In the case of Class B fireworks, the minimum separation distances
specified in Table 1 apply only when barricades are used.
b. If barricades are not used, separation distances shall be doubled
in accordance with the American Table of Distances, published by the Institute
of Makers of Explosives, 1971.
5. Handling of Pyrotechnic Materials in Production. BATF has a regulation
pertaining to the manufacturing and assembling of finished Class B fireworks:
The quantity of explosive materials that may be kept outside of an approved
magazine during a day's manufacturing or assembling operations is limited.
Furthermore, at the conclusion of a day's operations all partially and
fully assembled special (Class B) fireworks and their ingredients shall
be placed in proper storage (BATF Rule 85-13).
a. BATF has interpreted this rule as follows:
(1) No more than 10 pounds of flash powder and no more than 500 pounds
of other explosive materials used in special fireworks may be
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kept outside of an approved magazine and in a processing building or
area during a day's manufacturing or assembling operations; and
(2) Dry explosive powders and mixtures, unfinished special fireworks,
and individual special fireworks articles and packaged display segments
received into packing buildings or areas for sorting, temporary storage,
and packing into complete display units shall be stored in approved magazines
in accordance with 27 CFR Part 55, at the conclusion of a day's manufacturing,
assembling, or processing operations.
b. CSHOs shall be aware of these limitations when conducting NEP inspections,
and shall report apparent violations to the local BATF office as soon as
practicable.
(1) No more than 500 pounds of pyrotechnic and explosive composition
shall be permitted at any one time in any mixing building or in any building
or area in which the composition is pressed, dried, or otherwise prepared
for finishing and assembly (NFPA 1124,paragraph 2-10.2). Violations involving
regulated materials covered under J.5.a. shall be referred to BATF.
(2) No more than 500 pounds of pyrotechnic and explosive composition
shall be permitted at any one time in a finishing or an assembly building
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-10.3). Violations involving Class B devices shall
be referred to BATF.
c. CSHOs shall handle infractions of the following rules for the safe
handling of pyrotechnic materials (both Class B and Class C fireworks),
as appropriate: by referral, by citation, using 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1),
or by recommendation:
(1) Oxidizers shall not be stored in the same building with combustible
powdered materials such as charcoal, gums, metals, sulfur, and
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antimony sulfide (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.7)
EXCEPTION: Oxidizers in use in the manufacturing process may be located
in the same building as fuels and binding agents also being used in production.
(2) Finished fireworks shall be removed to a magazine or storage building
regularly, and at least once daily, from the process building in which
they are assembled, to minimize the amount of pyrotechnic material in the
building. The 500 pound limitation shall be strictly adhered to for Class
B fireworks and violations referred to BATF. Violations for Class C fireworks
may be cited only if serious hazards are documented.
(3) No finished fireworks shall be stored in a process building. Violations
involving Class a fireworks shall be referred to BATF; violations involving
Class C fireworks may be cited only if a serious hazard is documented.
(4) All explosive or pyrotechnic materials except the amounts in actual
production should be kept in covered containers.
6. Electrical Equipment. The requirements of Subpart S apply in fireworks
manufacturing facilities and shall be cited if violations are observed.
a. The National Electrical Code and Subpart S of the General Industry
standards do not specifically classify locations where explosive or pyrotechnic
dusts are present. No assurance can be given that any electrical equipment
currently approved for hazardous locations is safe for use with explosive
or pyrotechnic materials.
(1) NFPA 1124 requires that electrical devices used in fireworks manufacturing
process buildings be suitable for Class II, Division 1, Group E locations.
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(2) CSHOs, therefore, shall enforce the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.307
whenever explosive or pyrotechnic dusts are present.
b. NFPA 1124 may be used as supporting documentation whenever electrical
standard violations are cited.
7. Control of Other Ignition Sources. Careful attention shall be given
to potential sources of ignition, particularly in areas where loose composition
is likely to be present.
a. Stoves, exposed flames, and electric heaters shall not be permitted
in any building where fireworks or fireworks components are or may be present
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-9.1).
b. Heating shall be provided by steam, hot water, or indirect hot air
radiators (or by any other means acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction)
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-9.2).
c. Where electrical matches (squibs) are attached to Class B fireworks,
the exposed ends of the electric match shall be shunted (twisted together)
d. Employees working in mixing or pressing areas shall be provided with
and shall wear cotton clothing with nonferrous fasteners and conductive
footwear to reduce the danger of generating static electricity (NFPA 1124,
paragraph 2-11.4). Violations shall be cited under 29 CFR 1910.132 (a)
e. Methods shall be in place to drain off any accumulated static electrical
charges.
(1) The floors and work surfaces in all mixing and pressing buildings
shall be made of conductive material (or have anti-static mats) and be
properly grounded (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-7.5).
(2) To avoid producing sparks, only nonsparking tools shall be used
when they are likely to be in contact with loose explosives or
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pyrotechnic material and should be used in all other areas where explosive
or pyrotechnic materials are present (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.6).
f. The following practices are recommended for the control of static
charges:
(1) A grounded touch plate or rod should be located at the entrance
of every mixing and pressing building.
(2) Fiberboard containers without exposed metal parts should be used
for the storage of explosives or pyrotechnic mixtures.
(3) Plastic or nongrounded metal containers should NOT be used to store
explosive or pyrotechnic materials.
g. Ferrous materials, such as furnishings, tools, equipment and personal
items, should be carefully regulated and controlled by strictly enforced
work rules.
8. Fire Protection and Emergency Procedures. The requirements of Subpart
L, Fire protection (29 CFR 1910.155 -1910.165) apply and are appropriate
to fire safety in fireworks manufacturing facilities.
a. Because of the seriousness of the fire and explosion hazards at fireworks
facilities, OSHA strongly encourages employers to elect to establish and
implement a written emergency action/fire prevention plan that requires
the immediate and total evacuation of employees from the workplace; this
plan must meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.38.
b. Employers who do not elect this option shall provide portable fire
extinguishers meeting the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.157 in all buildings.
EXCEPTION: When extinguishers are not located in buildings in which
explosive or pyrotechnic mixtures are present (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-
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12.1), such a condition shall be considered as "de minimis."
c. Each plant should have formal emergency procedures. Such procedures
should include employee instruction and training and should be applicable
to all anticipated emergencies (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-12.2).
d. An emergency warning signal should be established (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-12.2).
e. Employees should be instructed to abandon fire fighting efforts if
the fire involves or may spread to explosive or pyrotechnic compositions
or devices. In such cases, employees should be instructed to evacuate the
building immediately and to alert other plant personnel (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-12.3.1).
9. Use of Smoking Materials. Employers are required to ensure that their
employees comply with the following practices at all times:
a. Smoking materials shall not be carried into or in the vicinity of
process buildings or areas. Personnel shall deposit all smoking materials
at a suitable location in a nonprocess building immediately upon entering
the plant (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.2).
b. Smoking shall be permitted only in office buildings or in buildings
used exclusively as lunch rooms or rest rooms and in which the presence
of explosive or pyrotechnic materials is prohibited (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-11.2.1).
c. Authorized smoking locations shall be so marked, shall contain suitable
receptacles for disposal of smoking materials, and shall be provided with
at least one approved portable fire extinguisher suitable for use on Class
A fires (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.2.2), unless the employer has an emergency
action plan and a fire prevention plan meeting the requirements of 29 CFR
1910.38.
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10. Good Housekeeping. OSHA's housekeeping standards (1910.22 (a) (1)
, (2) , and (3)) shall be enforced at fireworks manufacturing facilities,
and shall be cited as serious whenever an explosion hazard can be documented.
a. Accumulation of flammable and combustible waste material and residues
shall be controlled so that they do not contribute to a fire emergency.
b. Accumulations of dust shall be minimized and shall not be allowed
to build to measurable levels.
c. Spills of explosive or pyrotechnic composition shall be immediately
cleaned up and removed from the building.
NOTE: The spilled material shall be destroyed by immersion in water
or by burning in a manner acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11. 1.1)
e. The following good safety practices are recommended:
(1) To prevent the buildup of combustible dust, a properly designed
and approved general or local ventilation system should be used.
(2) Dust generated in the manufacturing process should be removed regularly
in a safe manner; e.g., using a wet method.
(3) Rags, combustible scrap, and paper should be kept separate from
waste explosive or pyrotechnic materials.
(a) Both should be kept in approved, marked containers until removed
from the building.
(b) All such disposal containers should be removed from buildings on
a daily basis and be removed from the plant at regular intervals (NFPA
1124, paragraph 2-11.1. 2)
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11. Onsite Transportation of Explosive and Pyrotechnic Material. Certain
sections of the transportation of explosives standard (29 CFR 1910.109(d))
apply to fireworks manufacturing establishments.
a. 29 CFR 1910.109(d) (1) (i) and (d) (2) (i) apply to onsite transportation
of explosive and pyrotechnic material at fireworks manufacturing facilities.
b. 29 CFR 1910.109(d) (2) (iv) applies to vehicles used for onsite transportation
of explosive and pyrotechnic materials at fireworks manufacturing facilities
as well as to vehicles used in and around such materials.
c. The use of spark-arresting exhaust devices is recommended when vehicles
may be in an area where explosive or pyrotechnic material is present.
12. Storage of Common (Class C) Fireworks. Although BATF has jurisdiction
over the storage of special (Class B) fireworks, OSHA has jurisdiction
over the storage of common (Class C) fireworks.
a. OSHA is precluded from enforcing the storage requirements of 29 CFR
1910.109(c) BATF-regulated explosive compositions and for Class B fireworks
storage. CSHOs shall be familiar with BATF regulations and shall make referrals
when apparent violations are observed.
b. 29 CFR 1910.109(c) requirements pertaining to the storage of explosives
are not applicable to Class C fireworks.
c. CSHOs shall enforce the requirements governing the storage of Class
C fireworks found in Chapter 4 of NFPA 1124. Apparent serious violations
of the requirements below shall be cited under 29 CFR 1910.109(b) (1).
(1) Common fireworks shall be stored in buildings constructed to resist
fire from an external source and should be weather-resistant and theft-resistant
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 4-2.1).
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(2) They shall be so stored at all times unless in the process of manufacture,
packaging, or being transported (NFPA 1124, paragraph 4-1.1)
(3) Storage buildings for Class C fireworks may be a building, igloo,
box, trailer, semi-trailer, or other mobile facility (NFPA 1124, paragraph
4-2.1).
(4) Smoking, matches, open flames, spark-producing devices and firearms
shall not be permitted inside of or within 25 feet of a Class C storage
building (NFPA 1124, paragraph 4-3.10).
EXCEPTION: Firearms carried by authorized guards.
d. In addition, the employer should observe the following recommended
industry practices:
(1) Storage buildings should be provided with explosion venting (NFPA
1124, paragraph 4-2.2).
(2) All openings should be equipped with a means for locking (NFPA 1124,
paragraph 4-2.3).
(3) All doors should open outward (NFPA 1124, paragraph 4-2.4).
(4) Wall receptacles should not be permitted, and light fixtures in
the immediate vicinity of pyrotechnic materials should have guards (NFPA
1124, paragraph 4-2.5.1).
13. Site Security. CSHOs should be aware of the following site security
measures:
a. The plant should be completely surrounded by a substantial fence
having a minimum height of 6 feet. Only office buildings containing no
processing or storage may be located outside this fence (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-5.1).
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b. All openings in the fence should have suitable gates that should
be kept closed and securely locked at all times when not actually in use
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-5.2).
EXCEPTION: The main plant entrance may be left open during regular plant
operating hours,provided it is in full view of and under observation by
an authorized responsible employee or guard.
c. Conspicuous signs indicating "WARNING -- NO SMOKING -- NO TRESPASSING"
should be posted along the fence at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (NFPA
1124, paragraph 2-5.3).
d. Only authorized employees or representatives of Federal, State, or
local agencies having jurisdiction over the plant should be allowed in
the plant without special permission of the person in charge of the plant
(NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-5.4)
14. Communication of Hazards to Employees. Employers of fireworks manufacturing
facilities are covered by the Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)
Specific requirements for employee information and training and signs and
labels shall be enforced when they become effective.
15. Hygiene Facilities and Procedures. The requirements of 1910.141
shall be met by each manufacturing facility.
a. Employers at fireworks facilities are required to provide change
rooms for employees, who shall not be allowed to wear work clothing outside
the plant if the clothing is seriously contaminated with explosive or pyrotechnic
material (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.4.1 and .2).
b. The following facilities and procedures are recommended:
(1) Provision of shower facilities for employees (NFPA 1124, paragraph
2-11.4.1).
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(2) Frequent laundering of work clothing to prevent accumulation of
explosive or pyrotechnic composition (NFPA 1124, paragraph 2-11.4.2)
K. Health Hazards. The potential health hazards to which employees in
fireworks manufacturing plants may be exposed range from nuisance dust
to highly toxic dusts and fumes.
1. Table 2 lists some of the chemical compounds with which these workers
may come in contact during the production of fireworks, and also describes
the conditions of use under which these compounds are hazardous. There
are no OSHA exposure limits for many of these chemicals.
2. As a matter of general policy, OSHA will NOT take personal, area,
or batch samples to monitor for health hazards in plant locations where
fire or explosion hazards exist; this policy is designed to protect both
the CSHOs and the fireworks manufacturing employees.
a. Wipe samples may be taken for the purpose of identifying the material
present whenever necessary. Proper procedures shall be observed in taking
such samples.
b. Personal samples may be taken only where there is no significant
explosion potential; e.g., in a fuse manufacturing area.
c. In areas of significant airborne dust levels, the CSHO shall document
accumulations of dust and shall cite under the housekeeping requirements.
(See J.10.)
3. Personal Protective Equipment. The current standards regarding the
use of personal protective equipment apply to manufacturers of fireworks.
a. OSHA recommends that fireworks manufacturers provide their employees
with appropriate respiratory protection and require that their employees
wear such protective equipment as specified.
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Table 2
Occupational Hazards Encountered by Employees in Fireworks Manufacturing
Facilities
___________________________________________________________________________
Fire/ Conditions Under Substance Explosion Which Substance Health Hazard
Hazard Is Hazardous ___________________________________________________________________________
Aluminum Yes May explode with liberation Dermatitis,bronchial powder of
hydrogen in contact with asthma, shortness of water, acids, or alkalis;
breath,cough, gastro- hazardous reaction with metal intestinal pain, and
oxides. pulmonary fibrosis. ___________________________________________________________________________
Ammonium Not compatible with many When heated,gives off chloride oxidizers.
poisonous gases. ___________________________________________________________________________
Ammonium Yes Oxides-of-nitrogen gases Moderately toxic; brief nitrate (except
nitrous oxide) skin contact can cause emitted on decomposition inflammation
or burns. are extremely toxic. ___________________________________________________________________________
Ammonium Yes Strong oxidizer, shock Releases toxic fumes perchlorate sensitive.
Highly ignitable strong skin irritant. when combined with combust- ible
materials, metallic powders, or organic materials. Forms explosive mixtures
with ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate and metal powders. ___________________________________________________________________________
Arsenic Extremely toxic and disulfide poisonous powder; avoid inhalation,
ingestion. ___________________________________________________________________________
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Table 2 (continued)
Occupational Hazards Encountered by Employees in Fireworks Manufacturing
Facilities ___________________________________________________________________________
Fire/ Conditions Under Substance Explosion Which Substance Health Hazard
Hazard Is Hazardous
Barium Yes May ignite when mixed with Dermatitis, eye irrita- chlorate
combustible, organic, or tion, upper respiratory other easily oxidizable
tract irritation, materials. systemic poisoning with severe gastrointestinal
pain, vomiting, paraly- sis, cyanosis. ___________________________________________________________________________
Barium Yes Can flame up and explode Highly toxic. nitrate when mixed with
certain fuels and ignited. Emits toxic nitrogen oxides on decomposition.
___________________________________________________________________________
Black Powder Yes Moderately toxic; avoid inhalation, ingestion. ___________________________________________________________________________
Carbon black Yes Dust may cause explosion. Can cause irritation of eyes,
conjunctivitis, corneal hyperplasia, eczema of eyelids, bron- chitis, lung
tumors. ___________________________________________________________________________
Copper Extremely toxic poison; acetoarsenite known carcinogen (Paris Green)
___________________________________________________________________________
Hexachlorobenzene Carcinogen ___________________________________________________________________________
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Table 2 (continued)
Occupational Hazards Encountered by Employees in Fireworks Manufacturing
Facilities ___________________________________________________________________________
Fire/ Conditions Under Substance Explosion Which Substance Health Hazard
Hazard Is Hazardous ___________________________________________________________________________
Lead compounds Detrimetal effects (chromate, to kidney, blood, and dioxide,
oxide, nervous system; avoid tetroxide inhalation; blood monitoring required.
___________________________________________________________________________
Magnesium and Yes Powder forms explosive Upper respiratory magnesium mixture
in air. Reacts tract irritant; may oxide with water forming hydrogen. cause
metal fume Finely divided powder may fever. explode on contact with water,
oxidizing materials, halogens, and acids. ___________________________________________________________________________
Phosphorous Yes Explodes when mixed with Fumes are highly toxic. (red)
oxidizing agents. ___________________________________________________________________________
Phosphorous Yes Emits acrid fume when Avoid inhalation; (yellow) exposed
to air. irritating to skin, eyes. ___________________________________________________________________________
Potassium Yes Forms explosive mixtures Nausea, vomiting, chlorate with
combustible, organic, abdominal pain, or other easily, oxidizable hypotension,
cyanosis, materials; sensitive to jaundice, hemo- friction and heat. globinuria,
seizures. ___________________________________________________________________________
Potassium Corrosive effect on dichromate mucous membranes; pos- sible carcinogen
___________________________________________________________________________
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Table 2 (continued)
Occupational Hazards Encountered by Employees in Fireworks Manufacturing
Facilities
Fire/Conditions Under Substance Explosion Which Substance Health Hazard
Hazard Is Hazardous ___________________________________________________________________________
Potassium Yes Increases flammability of Nausea, diarrhea, nitrate any combustible
substance. muscular weakness, collapse. ___________________________________________________________________________
Potassium Yes Forms explosive mixtures Irritates skin and perchlorate with
combustible, organic, upper respiratory or other easily oxidizable tract.
materials. ___________________________________________________________________________
Sodium Yes Can ignite or explode if Can cause convulsions nitrate in contact
with easily and paralysis. oxidizable substances Increases flammability
of any combustible substance. ___________________________________________________________________________
Sodium Toxic if inhaled oxalate or ingested. ___________________________________________________________________________
Strontium Highly toxic by oxalate ingestion or inhalation of fumes. ___________________________________________________________________________
Sulfur Yes Forms explosive mixture Conjunctivitis, skin with oxidizing
agents. inflammation, respira- tory irritation. ___________________________________________________________________________
Titanium and Yes React with water and Hazardous when inhaled titanium carbon
dioxide. or absorbed through dioxide skin. ___________________________________________________________________________
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Table 2 (continued)
Occupational Hazards Encountered by Employees in Fireworks Manufacturing
Facilities
Fire/ Conditions Under Substance Explosion Which Substance Health Hazard
Hazard Is Hazardous ___________________________________________________________________________
Zirconium Yes Skin granulomas compounds ___________________________________________________________________________
Sources: Christensen 1972; Conkling 1985; County of Suffolk, New York,
Police Department 1983; Environmental Information Center, Inc. 1978; Fringer
et al. 1979; Mackison et al. 1978; McRae et al. 1978; National Fire Protection
Association 1972.
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b. In most process areas of fireworks plants; e.g., in mixing and pressing
areas, the appropriate respiratory equipment is a NIOSH-approved dust respirator.
Filters should be changed regularly and disposed of properly.
L. Inspection Procedures.
1. Preinspection Preparation. The CSHO assigned to inspect a fireworks
manufacturing facility under this NEP shall, before going on site:
a. Review, with the Area Director, any arrangements made with BATF and/or
ESA personnel for joint site inspections. b. Review any previous case files
on the facility to be inspected, noting relevant details as to size of
operation, number of employees, etc.
c. Discuss conditions at the site with the local BATF agent and State
or local enforcement authorities having knowledge of the particular site
scheduled for inspection. Any such authorities contacted shall be discreetly
reminded of OSHA's statutory restrictions on advance notice.
2. Clothing and Equipment for Site Visit. The CSHO shall take particular
care not to wear improper clothing nor to carry inappropriate equipment
during the inspection of a fireworks facility.
a. Prohibited clothing and equipment include:
(1) Wool, silk, or nylon outer garments;
(2) High-heeled shoes, leather-soled shoes, and metal taps or exposed
nails in or on shoes.
(3) Any testing equipment not specifically listed below unless approval
has been obtained from the supervisor in advance.
b. Appropriate clothing and safety equipment include:
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(1) All-cotton outer garments; e.g., coveralls with nonferrous snaps,
buttons, or zippers;
(2) Bureau of Mines-approved flashlight;
(3) Conductive footwear;
(4) Nonsparking tape measure; and
(5) Wooden ruler.
c. Additional items which may be used if available include:
(1) Chalk;
(2) Copper-coated magnets;
(3) Optical measuring device.
d. The use of cameras shall be allowed only with great care. Mechanical
cameras without batteries and with no exposed ferrous parts may be used
in the absence of suspended explosive or pyrotechnic dust. A telephoto
lens is recommended for taking pictures where the CSHO believes that closer
exposure may be hazardous.
3. Pre-Site-Visit Precautions. CSHOs shall observe the following precautions
before beginning the opening conference:
a. Recheck personal safety procedures; e.g., clothing, shoes, safety
equipment.
b. Remove all potential sources of ignition; e.g., lighters, cigarettes,
matches, metal clipboards, metal pens and pencils, etc.
c. Park vehicle at safety distance.
d. In the event an electrical storm appears imminent, terminate the
inspection until weather conditions improve.
4. Opening Conference. CSHOs shall take care to explain the NEP program
fully to employers during the opening
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conference, answering all questions that they may have.
a. CSHOs shall inform employers that, if he/she observes any apparent
violations of BATF or ESA regulations, they will be referred to the appropriate
agencies.
b. CSHOs shall also ask employers and employees for help in identifying
any unlicensed fireworks manufacturing facilities in the area. Any such
facilities shall be referred to BATF.
c. Before beginning the walkaround inspection of the fireworks manufacturing
plant, the CSHO shall
(1) Inspect the facility's Federal and other licenses and permits, which
are normally required to be posted.
(2) Ask to review, for informational purposes, the records required
to be kept by BATF as to type, amount, and use of explosives manufactured,
stored, or distributed, including the amounts of each explosive used daily.
(3) Review diagram of plant layout, if available; otherwise , discuss
layout with employer.
(4) Review company safety and health procedures.
(5) Determine amount of explosive and/or pyrotechnic material in each
storage building or magazine and in each process and nonprocess building.
(6) Determine what operations are currently ongoing.
5. Walkaround Inspection Procedures. The inspection shall be conducted
in accordance with the procedures outlined in the FOM and OSHA Instruction
CPL 2.67.
REMEMBER: Do NOT handle explosive materials or pyrotechnic compositions
yourself.
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6. Closing Conference. In addition to the usual elements of the closing
conference, CSHOs conducting NEP inspections of fireworks facilities shall
discuss the employer's safety and health procedures and recommend that
the safe practices specified in NFPA 1124, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation,
and Storage of Fireworks (1984), be observed.
Patrick R. Tyson Acting Assistant Secretary
DISTRIBUTION: National, Regional and Area Offices All Compliance Officers
State Designees 7(c) (1) Project Managers NIOSH Regional Program Directors
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APPENDIX A
References
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Explosives Law and Regulations
, ATF NO. P 5400.7. Washington, D.C. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms,
November 1982.
Christensen, Herbert E. (ed.) The Toxic Substance List. Rockville, Maryland:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1972.
Conkling, John A. Chemistry of Fireworks. Chemical and Engineering News
59:26, June 1981.
Conkling, John A. Chemistry of Pyrotechnics. New York: Marcel Dekker,
1985.
County of Suffolk, New York, Police Department. Supplementary Report:
Explosion of New York Pyrotechnic Co. Bellport, New York: Police Department,
County of Suffolk, N.Y., November 27, 1983.
Environmental Information Center, Inc. Toxic Substances Sourcebook,
Series 1. New York: Environmental Information Center, Inc., March 1978.
Fringer , J.M. , J.B. Willis, S.W. Snyder , and P.H. Errico. A Safe
Practices Manual for the Manufacturing, Transportation, Storage, and Use
of Pyrotechnics. Developed by Tracor-Jitco, Inc., under Contract No. 210-77-0145-1
with the Division of Safety Research, National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, 1979.
Lancaster, R. , T. Shimizu, R.E.A. Butler, and R.G. Hall. Fireworks:
Principles and Practice. New York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc., 1972.
Lusardi, A. Federal and State Laws and Safety Considerations Relating
to Fireworks in the United States. Special Publication ARDCO-SP-82002.
Dover, NJ: Army Armament Research and Development Command, Large Caliber
Weapons Systems Laboratory, Energetic Materials Division, 1982.
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Mackison , Frank W. , R. Scott Stricoff , Lawrence J. Partridge , Jr.,
and A.D. Little, Inc., (ed.) NIOSH/OSHA Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards.
Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, U.S.
Department of Labor, 1978.
McLain, J.H. Pyrotechnics. Philadelphia: The Franklin Institute Press,
1980.
McRae, Alexander , and Leslie Whelchel (ed .) Toxic Substances Control
Sourcebook. Germantown, Maryland: Aspen Systems Corp., 1978.
National Fire Protection Association. Code for the Manufacture, Transportation,
and Storage of Fireworks, Code No. 1124. Boston, Massachusetts: National
Fire Protection Association, 1984.
National Fire Protection Association. Hazardous Chemical Data, Code
No. 49. Boston, Massachusetts: National Fire Protection Association, 1972.
National Fire Protection Association. Model State Fireworks Law, NFPA
No. 112IL. Boston, Massachusetts: National Fire Protection Association,
1981.
Timoney, T. Explosion at New York fireworks plant kills two. Fire Journal
78:4, July 1984.
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APPENDIX B
Glossary of Industry Terms
Barricade A natural or artificial barrier that will effectively screen
a magazine, building, railway, or highway from the effects of an explosion
in a magazine or building containing explosives. To be effective, a barricade
must be of such height that a straight line from the top of any sidewall
of a magazine or building containing explosives to the eave line of any
magazine or building, or to a point 12 feet (3.7 m) above the center of
a railway or highway, will pass through the barricade.
Battle in the Clouds An aerial noise effect that occurs when a shell
carrying a number of consecutively fused salutes bursts. The series of
cracks gives the effect of a volley of musket fire. (See Salute.)
Binder A material added to a pyrotechnic composition to hold it together.
Black Powder A mixture of potassium nitrate, sulfur and charcoal that
is ground together for hours by a heavy grinding wheel. Formerly called
gunpowder, its tendency to corrode gun barrels led to its replacement by
modern gunpowder, a different chemical mixture not used in fireworks. Black
powder was invented before A.D. 1000, and is used in fireworks as a propellant.
(See Flash Powder.)
Break An explosion of an aerial shell. A single shell may be manufactured
to break as many as 10 times, although a shell that breaks four
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or five times is frequently the highlight of a good small show.
Cherry Bomb An illegal type of firework, banned in 1966 because it contains
so large a quantity of flash powder. It is a small red sphere, approximately
1-inch in diameter.
Choke The hole at the bottom of a sky-rocket that allows the gas formed
by the ignition of the black powder inside to escape, thus thrusting the
rocket skyward.
Chrysanthemum The symmetrical flower-like pattern seen when a spherical
oriental shell bursts and throws out jets of color from a central point.
Classification The system, employed by the U.S. Department of Transportation
to rank explosives, uses the amount and type of pyrotechnic composition
as classification criteria.
Class A explosives, also known as "high explosives," are restricted
to military and commercial use. Because of their high pyrotechnic composition
content, they represent maximum hazard. Class A explosives include dynamite,
nitroglycerin, picric acid, lead oxide, fulminate of mercury, black powder,
blasting caps, and detonating primers.
Class B explosives, such as propellant explosives (including some smokeless
propellants) , photographic flash powders, and some special fireworks,
represent flammable hazard. Class a fireworks contain larger amounts of
pyrotechnic material than Class C
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fireworks, and are used only for licensed public displays.
Class C explosives include certain types of manufactured articles which
contain Class A or Class B explosives, or both, as components but in restricted
quantities. Class C fireworks , which contain very limited amounts of pyrotechnic
composition, are intended for the general public and for backyard displays.
Colors The visual effect created by various chemicals used in the composition
of stars. Five different colors are possible: magnesium or aluminum metal
produces white, sodium salts produce yellow, strontium nitrate or carbonate
makes red, barium nitrate or chlorate makes green (or copper salts a bluer
green), and charcoal or iron produces orange. Blue is the most difficult
color to produce. Ammonium perchlorate combined with copper salt makes
the best blue, but the search continues for a compound that will make a
better hue. (See Star.)
Comet (or Mine) A tube, as much as 2-and a half-inches in diameter,
that is attached to a wooden base. Upon ignition, the single star in the
tube is thrust 50 to 100 feet in the air, where it continues to glow as
it slowly drops.
Common or Small Fireworks Classified as Class C explosives by the U.S
Department of Transportation (DOT) , this class includes any small firework
device designed primarily to produce visible or audible effects by combustion.
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Cracker A serpentine roll of paper treated with black powder.
Drift Wood or plastic ramming rod.
Filling Machine Machine that measures the chemical, fills the tube,
and rams it.
Firecracker A small, noise-making cylinder, as long as 1 and-a-half
inches, containing small amounts of pyrotechnic material. Some firecrackers
are strung together and fused consecutively.
Fireworks Any device that produces visible or audible effects through
combustion or explosion. The general term "fireworks" should not be confused
with "firecrackers," which are a specific type of firework. Fireworks Plant
All lands, and buildings thereon, used for or in connection with the manufacture
or processing of fireworks; the term includes storage buildings used with
or in connection with plant operation.
First Fire An easily ignitable composition used to start the fuse.
Flash Powder A mixture, developed early in the twentieth century, of
potassium chlorate (or potassium perchlorate) , sulfur and aluminum. Unsuitable
as a propellant, it explodes with a loud noise and is used in salutes and
firecrackers. (See Black Powder.)
Flitter Sparkler A narrow paper tube filled with pyrotechnic composition
that produces color and sparks upon ignition. It has no fuse; the paper
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at one end of the tube is ignited to make the device function.
Former Shape or form around which a tube is made.
Fountain A cylinder or cone containing a pyrotechnic composition. Upon
ignition, a shower of colored sparks, and sometimes a whistling effect,
is produced.
Fuse The wick used to ignite fireworks. The older type, still used in
some oriental fireworks, consists of black powder rolled into fine tissue
paper. The more advanced outer fuse material consists of a network of woven
threads rather than tissue paper.
Gang Ram A device capable of ramming several tubes at once.
Hand Charging Loading and ramming the tube by hand.
Lady Finger A small firecracker, about 3/4-inch long.
Lance A small tube, about 3/8-inch in diameter and 4 inches long, which
is filled with color-producing chemicals. Lances contain the pyrotechnic
material in set pieces and are lighted with quickmatch in order to provide
simultaneous ignition to create pictures. (See Set Pieces.)
Loading Press A press that compacts the chemicals in the tube.
M-80 An illegal type of firework, banned in 1966 because it contains
so large a quantity of flash powder. As long as 2 inches in
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length, the M-80 is usually a red cylinder with a fuse projecting from
the side. The name "M-80" derives from its military designation.
Magazine Any building or structure other than an explosive manufacturing
building, designed and/or approved for the storage of explosive materials.
Manufacture The mixing of pyrotechnics and the loading and assembling
of these chemicals.
Mixing Building Any building used primarily for mixing and blending
of pyrotechnic chemicals.
Mold A form that holds the tube to prevent splitting while the tube
is being rammed.
Mortar A metal or heavy paper tube, over 2" inches in diameter, which
is closed at one end and set vertically into the ground. Mortars launch
aerial shells used in public displays. At the base of the tube, the black
powder below the shell ignites, creating trapped gas, which propels the
shell up the tube and out the open end into the air.
Non-process Building Office buildings, warehouses, and other fireworks
plant buildings where no fireworks or explosive compositions are processed
or stored.
Press A machine that rams one tube at a time.
Process Building Any mixing building; any building in which pyrotechnic
or explosive
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composition is pressed or otherwise prepared for finishing and assembling;
or any finishing or assembling building, including a building used for
preparation of fireworks for shipment.
Pyrotechnic Composition A chemical mixture that, on burning and without
explosion, produces visible or brilliant displays of bright lights or whistles.
Quickmatch A special fuse used to light set pieces and other displays
that require the simultaneous ignition of many fireworks. The quickmatch
consists of a regular fuse surrounded by a straw or paper tube. This outer
sheath maintains a high inner fuse temperature in order to produce extremely
rapidly burning.
Rocket A paper cylinder filled with black powder and attached to a long
stick. Frequently the rocket cylinder is topped by a cone to stabilize
flight. Upon ignition of the black powder, gases stream from the choke,
forcing the rocket skyward.
Roman Candle A 6- to 12-inch tube containing alternating layers of compacted
black powder and single stars. When set in the ground and lighted, single
stars shoot out the top of the tube to a height of 12 to 15 feet.
Round Shell A pyrotechnic device that contains stars.
Salute A small cylinder filled with flash powder. Salutes, which are
considerably larger than firecrackers, are added to display fireworks as
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noisemakers. With stars, they create most effects in aerial fireworks.
Set Piece A wooden frame bearing a picture outlined in lances. When
set in the ground and ignited, the lances create the picture with colored
fire. Common subjects include George Washington, Niagara Falls and presidential
portraits.
Shell A cartridge containing the pyrotechnic composition used in aerial
display fireworks. American shells are cylindrical and tend to burst in
a random pattern with a lingering color effect. Oriental shells are spherical
and burst in a more regular pattern of briefer duration than American shells.
The size of the average shell used in most displays is 3 to 4 inches in
diameter, but shells can be as large as 36 inches in diameter.
Sieve Screen tray used to size-grade the chemical constituents of fireworks.
Silver Salute An illegal firework, banned in 1966 because it contains
so large a quantity of flash powder. Approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches in
length, this salute is a silver cylinder with a fuse projecting from the
side.
Snake A type of indoor firework made of pyrotechnic material pressed
into a small pellet. It burns slowly,producing a trail of ash up to 24
inches in length. The best Snakes are black and made of pitch.
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Sparkler A steel wire commonly about 9 inches long and partially coated
with pyrotechnic composition that produces a shower of sparks upon ignition.
Special Fireworks Articles containing any pyrotechnic compositions manufactured
and assembled, designed, or discharge in connection with television, theater,
or motion picture productions, which may or may not be presented before
live audiences, and any other article containing any pyrotechnic compositions
used for commercial, industrial, educational, recreational, or entertainment
purposes when authorized by the authority having jurisdiction. Special
fireworks are classified as Class B explosives.
Spike Device used to remove a form from a long tube.
Spinner A small wheel that is placed on the ground and ignited; produces
a shower of sparks and color by rapid spinning.
Squib A device containing a small quantity of igniting compound in contact
with a bridge wire.
Star Pellets of compressed color-producing chemicals used in various
types of fireworks. Each star leaves a single trail of brilliant color.
Hundreds may be employed in an aerial shell, giving the display dramatic
visual effect. Combined stars and salutes create virtually all effects
in aerial display fireworks.
Star Pump Device used to make stars by hand.
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Storage Building Any building or structure used to store any pyrotechnic
chemicals or devices that are Class C fireworks.
Torch A 6- to 12-inch tube filled with color composition and fitted
with a suitable handle. When ignited, streams of color come from the top
of the tube.
Tube The paper cylinder that contains the fireworks chemicals.
Wad Cutter A device used to cut paper circles.
Weeping Willow An aerial effect made by adding charcoal to the color-producing
stars. Because charcoal has a relatively long burning time, the stars continue
to burn during their descent. Their color streams resemble the pendulous
branches of a willow. Because of the charcoal content, most willow displays
are orange.
Warehouse Building or structure used to store nonexplosive or noncombustible
pyrotechnic materials.
Wheel A device which consists of several cylinders of pyrotechnic material
(drivers) placed end-to-end in a circle on a frame and consecutively fused.
When the drivers are ignited, the wheel spins around a central axis and
ejects sparks or colors.
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OSHA INSTRUCTION CPL 2.73 FEB 3 1986 OFFICE OF GENERAL INDUSTRY COMPLIANCE
ASSISTANCE
APPENDIX C
Pyrotechnic Trade Association and Societies
1. The American Pyrotechnics Association Box 213 Chestertown, MD 21690
(301) 778-6825 John A. Conkling, executive Director
The American Pyrotechnic Association (APA) is a nonprofit industry organization
representing manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and importers in the
U.S. fireworks industry.
PURPOSES: To encourage safety in the design and use of all types of
fireworks; to provide information and support to the industry; to promote
responsible regulation of fireworks.
SERVICES: Provides Federal Government liaison; serves as central information
source; provides information on fireworks to State and local governments
and to press representatives; analyzes composition of fireworks to determine
compliance with Federal law.
PUBLICATION: APA Bulletin (monthly).
2. Pyrotechnics Guild International, Inc. 5415 Bangert Street White
Marsh, MD 21162 (301) 256-5144
The Pyrotechnics Guild International is a nonprofit, amateur membership
organization.
PURPOSE: To foster the legal and safe use of fireworks for the celebration
of national holidays.
SERVICES (free and available to the public): Answers inquiries; provides
reference services; conducts seminars and workshops; provides information
on research and development in progress; makes referrals to other sources
of information; permits use of collections of fireworks at guild museum.
HOLDINGS: Museum in Norfolk, Nebraska, containing more than 200 fireworks
artifacts dating from the early 1900s.
PUBLICATION: American Pyrotechnist (monthly)
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OSHA INSTRUCTION CPL 2.73 FEB 3 1986 OFFICE OF GENERAL INDUSTRY COMPLIANCE
ASSISTANCE
National Office - BATF
Mr. William T. Earle Chief, Firearms and Explosives Division Office
of Compliance Operations Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Department
of The Treasury 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington DC 20226
Page C-2
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