UK Fireworks Surveillance for Compliance with ADR and the UN Default Classification of Fireworks

Posted on June 22, 2010 · Leave a Comment

D. Chapman, S. Dennis, B. Joyce, A. C. Donalds and M. J. C. Sime

Abstract: Fireworks compositions have been examined for a range of different fireworks. These compositions have been tested and measured to ascertain compliance (or otherwise) with the United Nations (UN) Default Fireworks Classification Table criteria for UN Hazard Division (HD) 1.4G classification. Non-compliance with the requirements of UN HD 1.4G criteria have been found. These have constituted exceeding the total net explosive content (NEC), time–pressure rise times of less than 8 ms for non-black powder formulation burst charge compositions, metal based flash compositions being used as burst charge, and greater than 5% flash content in shot tubes. Fireworks that comply with the requirements of the UN default classification scheme have also been found.

Keywords: Compliance, default classification, UN, ADR

Ref: JPyro, Issue 29, 2010, pp40-46
(J29_40)

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Defining Flash Compositions: Modifications to UN Time/Pressure Test

Posted on May 12, 2010 · Leave a Comment

D. Chapman and K. Howard

Abstract: The Time/Pressure Test from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria has been modified to define flash compositions in the default classification lists for fireworks in the UN Model Regulations. This modified test is known as the HSL flash composition test. This paper summarises the history of this change from a composition-based to a performance-based definition and describes more recent work to improve the method when testing pyrotechnic compositions. A modified test method has been developed with a new firing plug that has been designed to improve reliability and reproducibility by changing the sample geometry and removing the primed cambric. The system has been manufactured and tested and was presented as a proposal to the UN Subcommittee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods as an additional test method for the Manual of Test and Criteria specifically for defining hazardous compositions with flash-like properties. The method and apparatus is now incorporated into the UN scheme for the classification of dangerous goods, specifically for fireworks.

Keywords: Flash Composition, UN Default List, Time/Pressure Test.

Ref: JPyro, Issue 29, 2010, pp32-39
(J29_32)

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What is a “Safety Distance” for a Shell?

Posted on March 25, 2010 · 1 Comment

Tom Smith

Abstract: This paper outlines the risk assessment methodologies and calculates the risks affecting the audience from the malfunctioning of shells. Risks may arise from premature functioning of shells, from stars falling on the audience from low bursting shells, and from shells bursting in or near the audience. Two mathematical approaches are taken using Shellcalc©derived data to determine the distances from the firing point of a shell that lead to an individual risk to a member of the audience.

Keywords: shells, risks, fallout, debris

Ref: JPyro, Issue 29, 2010, pp12-31
(J29_12)

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Blue Flame Pyrotechnic Compositions: A Concise Review

Posted on February 15, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Alessandro E. Contini

Abstract: A brief historical background to the development of effective pyrotechnic blue flame compositions, including strobing formulas, from the 19th century to the present day, is presented. The latest prevailing theories on blue flame generation are discussed and a list of some effective modern formulations is given.
Keywords: Pyrotechnic illumination, blue flame, copper salts, copper oxides.

Ref: JPyro, Issue 29, 2010, pp3-11
(J29_3)

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ESI for Ergonomic Hazards in Local Fireworks Factories – Azzopardi

Posted on January 7, 2010 · Leave a Comment

The questionairre (in English and Maltese) used for this survey is available below

ESI for 0068

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Ergonomic Hazards in Local Fireworks Factories

Posted on January 7, 2010 · 1 Comment

Stanley Azzopardi

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to review the practices, postures and workstations in Maltese fireworks factories which may cause back pain and musculoskeletal disorders to fireworkers. Hazards varying from the toxicity of substances used to produce colours and pyro-effects up to ergonomic adversities that such processes impose upon the workers are present in these factories. At fireworks factories, the ergonomic aspects are not considered important and this is mainly attributed to the financial aspects and traditional methods of manufacturing. Rivalry between local fireworks factories fuels this passion which forces the voluntary fireworkers to increase or maintain their yearly production and hence their exposure to such ergonomic hazards. Literature that specifically discusses ergonomics or fireworks manufacturing is readily available, but literature which combines both topics is difficult to find. Even the local legislation, mainly the Explosives Ordinance (Laws of Malta – Chapter 33) and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority Act (Laws of Malta – Chapter 424), do not cross reference each other to provide fireworkers with suitable and systematic guidelines. For this pilot study a questionnaire was designed for use as an investigative tool, to help understand the cause of fireworkers’ complaints of aches and pains (if any) during fireworks manufacturing. Results, gathered from 51 licensed fireworkers indicated that the manufacturing processes are the cause of pains located mainly in the upper part of the body. The respondents reported their pains as being frequent or occasional during an average six hour production day. Further discussion argues that these fireworks enthusiasts (the respondents) consider these reported pains as part of their job at the fireworks factories. These illnesses and ailments may be causes of minor and/or major accidents during the processes. These may even end up in injuries, deaths, news sensationalism and resurfacing protests by anti-fireworks citizens.

Keywords: fireworks, fireworkers, ergonomic hazards, work practices, time

Ref: JPyro, Issue 28, 2009, pp112-121
(J28_112)

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