Firework Approval Clarification

PHMSA 09-24 notice fireworks Display Mines.pdf

PHMSA 09-24 notice fireworks with attachments.pdf

On September 24, 2014, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published two clarification notices in the federal register on PHMSA’s policy regarding applications for classification approval of Division 1.3G Display Aerial Shells with Attachments (79 FR 56988) and Display Mines (79 FR 56989), provided they conform to the acceptable criteria described in this federal register notice, and otherwise comply with APA Standard 87–1 requirements (i.e. chemical compositions and shell diameter sizes). Although the APA Standard 87–1 provides requirements for Display Aerial Shells, it does not specifically address Display Aerial Shells with Attachments or Display Mines. Firework manufacturers and their U.S. designated agents who file applications for EX classification approval on their behalf have two options: 1. Ensure their application for EX approval complies with all the requirements in Subpart C of Part 173 of the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR, 49 CFR Parts 171–180) for Division 1.3G fireworks; or 2. Without prior testing by a DOT-approved explosive test laboratory, ensure their application for EX approval provides that the firework device is manufactured in accordance with APA Standard 87– 1 and passes a thermal stability test as required by 49 CFR 173.64(a)(1) and (2). The effective date of these notices is September 24, 2014.