Pyrotechnics
Special Effects
Indoor or Outdoor
Standard for use of Pyrotechnics before a Proximate Audience NFPA 1126
A. You are asking to use pyrotechnics special effects for the indoor (outdoor) event or theatrical events. There are three governing codes and regulations: Federal, State and Local.
Prior to hosting an event, find an Ohio licensed "pyrotechnic exhibitor "who is authorized for pyrotechnics before a proximate audience. This exhibitor will follow the Ohio Fire Code as outlined in FM-3119.0. They will obtain a permit from the local fire official and law enforcement officer, also known as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), for the exhibition of Fireworks [ORC 3743.54].
Additional Info:
1. The fireworks used are not considered consumer fireworks. However, they must be classified as 1.4S or 1.4G (special) and must be manufactured, labeled, and sold in conformance with regulations of US Consumer Product Safety Commission (Title 16 Code Federal Regulation). Look for proper labels.
2. They are classified 1.4S (and 1.4G for technical purposes) in view of the substance or article so packed or designed that any hazardous effects arising from accidental functioning are limited to the extent that they do not significantly hinder or prohibit firefighting or other emergency response efforts in the immediate vicinity of the package (NFPA 1124 Table A-1-1 (a)).
3. Theatrical and/or Special Effects Pyrotechnics devices can be classed as “Article, Pyrotechnic” 1.4S, UN0432, 1.4G UN0431 products to be used before a proximate audience (not sold to the public) and identified by the Department of Transportation on the basis of specific test results (NFPA 1123 E.2.6.3).Make sure you determine from your vendor that the fireworks have met the DOT classification for Transportation (E.3.7).
4. The Ohio Fire Code Section 3119.0 sets out that a permit must be issued for all indoor and outdoor use of pyrotechnic special effects. A plan will be submitted to the local Fire Official and will include:
(a) The name of the person, group, or organization sponsoring the pyrotechnics exhibition;
(b) The date and time of day of the pyrotechnics exhibition;
(c) The exact location of the pyrotechnics exhibition;
(d) The name of the pyrotechnic exhibitor actually in charge of creating the pyrotechnic special event;
(e) The number, names, and ages of all assistants that will be present; (do not have to register with the State Fire Marshal).
(f) The qualifications of the pyrotechnic exhibitor;
(g) The experience of the exhibitor in using pyrotechnic special effects;
(h) Proof of valid exhibitor license issued by the Division of State Fire Marshal;
(i) Evidence of the permittee’s insurance carrier or financial responsibility;
(j) The number and types of pyrotechnic devices and materials to be used, including 1.4g (special) and 1.4s, the exhibitor’s experience with those devices and effects , and a definition of the general responsibilities of assistants;
(k) A diagram of the grounds or facilities at which the pyrotechnics exhibition will be held. The diagram shall show the point at which the pyrotechnic devices are to fired, the fallout radius for each pyrotechnic device used in the pyrotechnics exhibition, and the lines which the audience shall be restrained;
(l) The point of on-site assembly of pyrotechnic devices;
(m) The manner and place of storage of the pyrotechnic materials and devices;
(n) The manufacturer(s) of the devices to be used shall be permitted in some cases to be the special effects person on the set; (product does not have to be purchased from Ohio licensed wholesaler or manufacturer)
(o) A material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the effect(s) to be used; and
(p) Certification that the set, scenery, and rigging materials are treated with appropriate flame retardant.
After a permit has been
granted, the permittee shall keep the plan available at the site for
safety inspectors or other designated agents or authority having
jurisdiction
Under ORC 3743.54(2) a checklist must be filled out by the Chief/Fire Prevention
Officer at
a fireworks exhibition; however, it is not needed in a Special
Pyrotechnics event before a
proximate audience.