PHMSA’s consumer fireworks approval program has seen an influx of applications in recent years, resulting in a backlog. Looking to improve the application process, the PHMSA conducted an extensive review and found collaborating with the Department of Transportation's approved fireworks certification agencies (FCA) offers increased flexibility for the fireworks industry without disturbing current safety standards.
The HMR consumer fireworks amendment will now allow FCA to perform the same functions as PHMSA’s approval program. The unification of procedures will provide additional avenues for certification and speed up the process while reducing some of the uncertainty related to ordering fireworks, according to the administration.
“Our mission is to protect the public from the risks of transporting hazardous materials, including the fireworks that families, friends and neighbors enjoy during the summer months,” said Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “This updated approval process maintains our commitment to safety while helping businesses operate more efficiently – a win-win situation for families and the economy.”
The amendment establishes how manufacturers, or their designated consumer fireworks agents, may submit applications for certification to FCAs in place of submitting applications for approval to PHMSA. It also establishes the criteria to be considered an FCA and how to applying to become an FCA.
To learn more about the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, or the HMR consumer firework amendment, please visit http://phmsa.dot.gov.