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Princeton University
Use of Pyrotechnics before a Proximate Audience
Purpose: To meet all applicable codes to ensure safe use and operation
of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience.
Scope: This applies to all productions in University theaters.
Definitions:
- Pyrotechnics – Firework showers or any composition containing potassium
and sulfur or any material that meets the definition of fireworks
in chapter 31, section F-3102.1 of the New Jersey State Fire Code.
- NFPA – National
Fire Protection Association.
GUIDELINES:
- The use of pyrotechnics with a proximate audience shall meet the
requirements found in chapter 31, section F-3103.7 of the New Jersey
State Fire Code
and NFPA Standard 1126.
- The proper fire safety precautions shall be put in place with the
theater management to avoid fire and fire damage from the fall out
of the display.
- All pyrotechnic equipment must be approved by the University Fire
Marshal (rgg@princeton.edu or
8-6805) and Theater Management.
- Use of any Pyrotechnics or other fireworks are prohibited in Alexander
Hall.
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New Jersey State Fire Prevention Code/1996
Chapter 31, section F-3103.7:
The use of what are technically known as fireworks showers, or of any
composition containing potassium and sulfur, in theaters or public halls
shall be subject to prior approval by the Fire Official and the following
conditions apply:
1. Fireworks shall be discharged and operated in accordance with the
manufactures directions and specifications.
2. The owner/operator shall provide a full demonstration to the fire official
prior to final operation.
3. Fireworks shall be discharged so as not to endanger the public by escape
of any hot particles from the stage area.
4. A fire watch, with proper extinguisher equipment as approved by the fire
official, shall be maintained during the operation at both sides of the stage
area.
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National Fire Protection Association Standard 1126
Chapter 1 General 1.1 Scope
This standard shall provide requirements for the protection of property,
operators, performers, support personnel, and the viewing audiences
where pyrotechnic effects are used indoors or outdoors with a proximate
audience. The purpose of this standard shall
be to provide minimum requirements to the operators and manufacturers for the
safe operation of pyrotechnic effects.
1.1.1*
This standard shall apply to the use of pyrotechnics in the performing
arts in conjunction with theatrical, musical, or similar productions
before a proximate audience, performers, or support personnel.
1.1.2
This standard shall apply to the performance specifications, instructions,
notifications, and labeling by the manufacturer of pyrotechnics materials,
devices, equipment, and supplies.
1.1.3
This standard shall apply to any indoor use of pyrotechnics.
1.1.4
This standard shall apply to any outdoor use of pyrotechnics at distances
less than those required by NFPA 1123, Code for Fireworks Display.
The use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience shall not be construed
as a display of fireworks as regulated by NFPA 1123.
Exception: Any use of aerial shells as regulated by NFPA 1123, Code for
Fireworks Display, shall comply with the provisions of that code.
1.1.5
This standard shall apply to the videotaping, audio taping, or filming
of any television, radio, or movie production only where such production
takes place before a proximate audience and includes the use of pyrotechnics.
1.1.6
This standard shall apply to the rehearsal of any production in which
pyrotechnics are used.
1.1.7*
This standard shall not apply to the manufacture, transportation, or
storage of fireworks at a manufacturing facility.
1.1.8
This standard shall not apply to the use of consumer fireworks by the
general public.
1.1.9*
This standard shall not apply to the manufacture, transportation, storage,
and use of explosives.
1.1.10
This standard shall not apply to the transportation, handling, or use
of pyrotechnics by the Armed Forces of the United States of America.
1.1.11
This standard shall not apply to the transportation of pyrotechnic materials
and devices approved and governed by U.S.
Department of Transportation regulations.
1.1.12*
This standard shall not apply to the use of pyrotechnics in training
by the fire service, law enforcement, or similar government agencies.
Exception: This standard shall apply where there is a proximate audience
that is not part of the live fire training evolution.
1.1.13
Facilities in or at which pyrotechnics are to be used or stored shall
comply with the applicable provisions of NFPA 101®, Life Safety
Code®. Pyrotechnics shall be permitted to be used in accordance
with the provisions of NFPA 101, 13.7.2, where approved by the authority
having jurisdiction.
1.1.14*
This standard shall not apply to the use of flammable liquids and flammable
gases in the performing arts.
1.1.15
This standard shall not apply to the manufacture of model rocket and
high power rocket motors as covered in NFPA 1125, Code for the Manufacture
of Model Rocket and High Power Rocket Motors.
1.1.16*
This standard shall not apply to the design, construction, limitation
of propellant mass and power, and reliability of all rocket motors,
other than fireworks rockets, produced commercially for sale to or
use by the public for purposes of education, recreation, and sporting
competition.
1.1.17
This standard shall not apply to the sale and use of model rockets and
model rocket motors used in conformance with NFPA 1122, Code for Model
Rocketry.
1.1.18
This standard shall not apply to the sale and use of high power sport
rockets and high power sport rocket motors used in conformance with
NFPA 1127, Code for High Power Rocketry.
1.2 Purpose
1.2.1
The purpose of this standard shall be to provide requirements for the
reasonable protection of pyrotechnic operators, performers, support personnel,
proximate audiences, property, and buildings where pyrotechnics are used
indoors or outdoors.
1.2.1.1
The purpose of this standard shall be to provide guidelines to the authority
having jurisdiction for approval of the use of pyrotechnics as specified
in 1.2.1.
1.2.1.2
The purpose of this standard shall be to provide requirements for local
permits.
1.3 Equivalency
Nothing in this standard is intended to prevent the use of systems, methods,
or devices of equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance,
effectiveness, durability, and safety over those prescribed by this
standard. Technical documentation shall be submitted to the authority
having jurisdiction to demonstrate equivalency. The system, method,
or device shall be approved for the intended purpose by the authority
having jurisdiction.
1.4 Retroactivity
The provisions of this standard reflect a consensus of what is necessary
to provide an acceptable degree of protection from the hazards addressed
in this standard at the time the standard was issued. Unless otherwise
specified, the provisions of this standard shall not apply to facilities,
equipment, structures, or installations that existed or were approved
for construction or installation prior to the effective date of the
standard. Where specified, the provisions of this standard shall be
retroactive. In those cases where the authority having jurisdiction
determines that the existing situation presents an unacceptable degree
of risk, the authority having jurisdiction shall be permitted to apply
retroactively any portions of this standard deemed appropriate. The
retroactive requirements of this standard shall be permitted to be
modified if their application clearly would be impractical in the judgment
of the authority having jurisdiction, and only where it is clearly
evident that a reasonable degree of safety is provided.
1.5 Definitions
The following definitions are used in the body of this standard.
1.5.1* Aerial Shell. Usually a cylindrical or spherical cartridge containing
pyrotechnic material, a long fuse or electric match wires, and a black powder
lift charge.
1.5.2 Airburst. A pyrotechnic device that is suspended in the air to simulate
outdoor aerial fireworks shells without producing hazardous debris.
1.5.3* Approved. Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
1.5.4 Assistant. A person who works under the supervision of the pyrotechnic
operator.
1.5.5 Audience. Spectators whose primary purpose is to view a performance.
1.5.6* Authority Having Jurisdiction. The organization, office, or individual
responsible for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure.
1.5.7 Binary Materials. (See 1.5.8, Binary System.)
1.5.8* Binary System. A two-component pyrotechnic system.
1.5.9 Black Powder. A low explosive consisting of an intimate mixture of potassium
or sodium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur.
1.5.10* Comet. A pellet of pyrotechnic composition that is ignited and propelled
from a mortar tube by a charge of black powder.
1.5.11 Concussion Effect. A pyrotechnic effect that produces a loud noise and
a violent jarring shock for dramatic effect.
1.5.12 Concussion Mortar. A device specifically designed and constructed to
produce a loud noise and a violent jarring shock for dramatic effect without
producing any damage.
1.5.13 Electric Match. A device containing a small amount of pyrotechnic material
that ignites when a specified electric current flows through the leads. An
electric match is used to initiate pyrotechnics. Electric matches are often
incorrectly called squibs.
1.5.14 Electrical Isolation. (See 1.5.32, Isolated Power Supply.)
1.5.15 Explosive Special Effect. (See 1.5.51, Pyrotechnic Special Effect.)
1.5.16* Fallout Area. The area in which any hazardous debris falls after a
pyrotechnic device is fired.
1.5.17* Fallout Radius. A line that defines the fallout area of a pyrotechnic
device.
1.5.18 Fire (verb). To ignite pyrotechnics by using an electric match, electrical
current, or some other means.
1.5.19* Firing System. The source of ignition for pyrotechnics.
1.5.20 Fixed Production. Any production performed repeatedly in only one geographic
location.
1.5.21 Flammable. A combustible that is capable of easily being ignited and
rapidly consumed by fire. Flammables may be solids, liquids, or gases exhibiting
these qualities.
1.5.22 Flare. A pyrotechnic device designed to produce a single source of intense
light for a defined period of time.
1.5.23 Flash Pot. A device used with flashpowder that produces a flash of light
and is capable of directing the flash in an upward direction.
1.5.24 Flashpowder. A specific pyrotechnic material in powder form composed
of fuel(s) and oxidizer(s). Ignition produces a flash of light, sparkles, an
audible report, or a combination of these effects.
1.5.25 Fuel. In pyrotechnics, anything combustible or acting as a chemical-reducing
agent such as, but not limited to, sulfur; aluminum powder; iron powder; charcoal;
magnesium; gums; and organic plastic binders. Fuels are an ingredient of pyrotechnic
materials.
1.5.26 Gerb. A cylindrical preload intended to produce a controlled spray of
sparks with a reproducible and predictable duration, height, and diameter.
1.5.27* Hazardous Debris. Any debris, produced or expelled by the functioning
of a pyrotechnic device, that is capable of causing personal injury or unpredicted
property damage.
1.5.28* Holder. Any device used to hold a pyrotechnic device other than a mortar.
1.5.29 Igniter. An electrical, chemical, or mechanical device normally used
to fire pyrotechnics.
1.5.30* Ingredient. A chemical used to create a pyrotechnic material.
1.5.31 Integral Mortar. A preloaded mortar containing pyrotechnic materials
and intended for a single firing only.
1.5.32* Isolated Power Supply. An ungrounded power supply that provides electricity,
in which both output wires are isolated from ground.
1.5.33 Labeled. Equipment or materials to which has been attached a label,
symbol, or other identifying mark of an organization that is acceptable to
the authority having jurisdiction and concerned with product evaluation, that
maintains periodic inspection of production of labeled equipment or materials,
and by whose labeling the manufacturer indicates compliance with appropriate
standards or performance in a specified manner.
1.5.34* Lift Charge. The composition in a pyrotechnic device that propels (lifts)
the effect into the air when ignited.
1.5.35* Listed. Equipment, materials, or services included in a list published
by an organization that is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
and concerned with evaluation of products or services, that maintains periodic
inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation
of services, and whose listing states that either the equipment, material,
or service meets appropriate designated standards or has been tested and found
suitable for a specified purpose.
1.5.36 Magazine. Any building, structure, or indoor container used exclusively
for the storage of explosive materials as defined in NFPA 495, Explosive Materials
Code.
1.5.37* Manufacturer. An individual who performs the following: (1) prepares
any pyrotechnic material; and (2) loads or assembles any pyrotechnic device.
1.5.38* Mine. A pyrotechnic device, usually a preload, that projects multiple
pellets of pyrotechnic material that produce sparks or flame.
1.5.39 Mortar. A tube or a pot-like device used to direct and control the effect
of the pyrotechnic material.
1.5.40 Oxidizer. Usually an oxygen-rich, ionically bonded chemical that decomposes
at moderate to high temperatures. Where such a chemical decomposes, it releases
oxygen. In addition to ionic solids, an oxidizer can be a material having covalent
molecules containing halogen atoms. An oxidizer is an ingredient of pyrotechnic
materials.
1.5.41* Performance. The enactment of a musical, dramatic, operatic, or other
entertainment production.
1.5.42* Performer. Any person active in a performance during which pyrotechnics
are used and who is not part of the audience or support personnel.
1.5.43* Permittee. The person or persons who are responsible for obtaining
the necessary permits for a production.
1.5.44 Preload. A pyrotechnic device supplied by the manufacturer in a ready-to-use
condition.
1.5.45* Producer. An individual who has overall responsibility for the operation
and management of the performance where the pyrotechnics are to be used.
1.5.46 Production. All the performances of a musical, dramatic, operatic, or
other series of shows. There are two types of productions: fixed and touring.
1.5.47 Proximate Audience. An audience closer to pyrotechnic devices than permitted
by NFPA 1123, Code for Fireworks Display.
1.5.48 Pyrotechnic Device. Any device containing pyrotechnic materials and
capable of producing a special effect as defined in this standard.
1.5.49* Pyrotechnic Material (Pyrotechnic Special Effects
Material). A chemical
mixture used in the entertainment industry to produce visible or audible effects
by combustion, deflagration, or detonation.
1.5.50* Pyrotechnic Operator (Special Effects Operator). An individual who
has responsibility for pyrotechnic safety and who controls, initiates, or otherwise
creates special effects.
1.5.51 Pyrotechnic Special Effect. A special effect
created through the use of pyrotechnic materials and devices. (See also 1.5.58,
Special Effect.)
1.5.52 Pyrotechnics. Controlled exothermic chemical
reactions that are timed to create the effects of heat, gas, sound, dispersion
of aerosols, emission
of visible electromagnetic radiation, or a combination of these effects to
provide the maximum effect from the least volume.
1.5.53 Rehearsal. A practice performance during which no audience is present.
1.5.54 Rocket. A pyrotechnic device that moves by the ejection of matter produced
by the internal combustion of propellants.
1.5.55 Saxon. A pyrotechnic device consisting of a tube that rotates around
a pivot point to produce a circular shower of sparks.
1.5.56 Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
1.5.57 Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not
required.
1.5.58* Special Effect. A visual or audible effect used for entertainment purposes,
often produced to create an illusion.
1.5.59* Support Personnel. Any individual who is not a performer or member
of the audience.
1.5.60 Touring Production. Any production performed in more than one geographic
location.
1.5.61 Venue Manager. An individual who has overall responsibility for the
operation and management of the facility where pyrotechnics are to be used
in a performance.
1.5.62 Waterfall, Falls, Park Curtain. An effect of a cascade of sparks usually
produced by multiple devices fired simultaneously.
1.5.63 Wheel. A pyrotechnic device that rotates on a central axis consisting
of multiple gerbs or rockets attached to a framework.
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Chapter 2 Transportation of Pyrotechnic Materials
2.1 Transportation
All ingredients, pyrotechnic materials, and pyrotechnic devices shall
be transported in accordance with 27 CFR (Federal Regulation for Transport)
and any state and local requirements.
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Chapter 3 Storage of Pyrotechnic Materials and Devices
3.1 Storage Requirements
3.1.1*
All pyrotechnic materials and devices shall be stored in accordance with
27 CFR K (Federal Storage Regulation) and any state and local regulations.
3.1.2
If more pyrotechnic material than is needed for the performance is prepared
by mixing a single unit, the excess mixed material shall be considered,
handled, stored, and disposed of as a pyrotechnic material of the applicable
explosive class as defined in 27 CFR 55.
3.2 In-Transit Requirements
All pyrotechnic materials and devices not stored in magazines meeting
the requirements of 27 CFR K, shall remain in their prescribed U.S.
Department of Transportation containers until it becomes necessary
to set them up for a performance. The time between removal from storage
and actual use shall be the shortest time practicable with respect
to the needs of a performance. Pyrotechnic materials and devices
shall be supervised. Exception: Where pyrotechnic materials and
devices are secured or inaccessible, they shall not be required to
be supervised.
3.3 Separation Distance from Unprotected Heat Source or Open Flame
Pyrotechnic materials and devices shall not be stored within 50 ft (15.3
m) of any unprotected source of heat or open flame.
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Chapter 4 Permit Requirements and Operator Qualifications
4.1 Permit Requirements
4.1.1
Because permit requirements vary with each location, this standard shall
provide requirements to be used by the authority having jurisdiction
for making sound judgment regarding the safety of the production and
the qualifications of the pyrotechnic operator.
4.1.2
The use of all pyrotechnics shall be approved by the authority having
jurisdiction.
4.1.3
The authority having jurisdiction shall determine that appropriate measures
are established to provide acceptable crowd management, security, fire
protection, and other emergency services.
4.1.4
All planning and use of pyrotechnics shall be coordinated with the venue
manager and producer.
4.2 Pyrotechnics Plans
4.2.1
Before the performance of any production, the permittee shall submit
a plan for the use of pyrotechnics to the authority having jurisdiction.
4.2.2
After a permit has been granted, the permittee shall keep the plan available
at the site for safety inspectors or other designated agents of the
authority having jurisdiction.
4.2.3
Any addition of pyrotechnics to a performance or any significant change
in the presentation of pyrotechnics shall require approval by the authority
having jurisdiction.
Exception: For the purpose of this standard, reducing the number or size
of pyrotechnics to be used in a performance shall not be considered to be a
significant change in the presentation.
4.3 Content of Plans
4.3.1
The plan for the use of pyrotechnics shall be made in writing or such
other form as is approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
4.3.2
The plan shall provide the following.
(a) Name of the person, group, or organization
sponsoring the production.
(b) Date and time of day of the production.
(c) Exact location of the production.
(d) Name of the person actually in charge of firing
the pyrotechnics (i.e., the pyrotechnic operator).
(e) Number, names, and ages of all assistants who are
to be present.
(f) Qualifications of the pyrotechnic operator.
(g) Pyrotechnic experience of the operator.
(h) Confirmation of any applicable state and federal
licenses held by the operator or assistant(s).
(i) Evidence of the permittee’s insurance carrier or
financial responsibility.
(j) Number and types of pyrotechnic devices and materials
to be used, the operator’s experience with those devices and effects, and a
definition of the general responsibilities of assistants.
(k) Diagram of the grounds or facilities where the
production is to be held. This diagram shall show the point at which the pyrotechnic
devices are to be fired, the fallout radius for each pyrotechnic device used
in the performance, and the lines behind which the audience shall be restrained.
(l) Point of on-site assembly of pyrotechnic devices.
(m) Manner and place of storage of the pyrotechnic
materials and devices.
(n) Material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the pyrotechnic
material(s) to be used.
(o) Certification that the set, scenery, and rigging
materials are inherently flame-retardant or have been treated to achieve flame
retardancy.
(p) Certification that all materials worn by performers
in the fallout area during use of pyrotechnic effects shall be inherently flame
retardant or have been treated to achieve flame retardancy.
4.3.3
All plans shall be submitted as soon as is possible so that the authority
having jurisdiction has time to be present and to notify other interested
parties. In no event shall such advance notice be less than 24 hours.
Exception: Notice shall be permitted to be given less than 24 hours in
advance where acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
4.4 Pyrotechnics Demonstration
4.4.1
A walk-through and a representative demonstration of the pyrotechnics
shall be approved by the authority having jurisdiction before a permit
is approved.
Exception: The authority having jurisdiction shall be permitted
to waive this requirement based on past history, prior knowledge, and
other factors,
provided the authority is confident that the discharge of pyrotechnics can
be conducted safely.
4.4.2
The demonstration shall be scheduled with sufficient time allowed to
reset/reload the pyrotechnics before the arrival of the audience.
4.4.3
Where the use of certain indoor pyrotechnics requires smoke detectors
to be bypassed or air-handling systems to be disengaged,
the fire department shall be notified and a representative shall
be present for the demonstration. The individual responsible for
the life safety systems
of the building shall return those systems to normal operating conditions
as soon as the likelihood of false alarms from the pyrotechnics has
passed.
4.5 Qualifications of Operators and Assistants
4.5.1
All pyrotechnic operators shall be at least 21 years old and licensed
or approved by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with any
and all applicable laws.
4.5.2
All assistants shall be at least 18 years old.
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Chapter 6 Use of Pyrotechnics
6.1 General Fire Protection
6.1.1* Portable Fire-Fighting Equipment.
Two or more fire extinguishers of the proper classification and size
as approved by the authority having jurisdiction shall be readily accessible
while the pyrotechnics are being loaded, prepared for firing, or fired.
6.1.1.1
In all cases, at least two pressurized water or pump extinguishers shall
be available.
6.1.1.2
Additional fire extinguishing equipment shall be provided as required
by NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, and the authority
having jurisdiction.
6.1.2
Personnel who have a working knowledge of the use of the applicable fire
extinguishers shall be present while the pyrotechnics are being handled,
used, or removed.
6.1.3
To prevent unauthorized personnel from gaining access to the pyrotechnics,
the venue manager for the site shall provide a separate, lockable room
or facility for the preparation of pyrotechnic materials and devices
that has been approved by the authority having jurisdiction and that
is acceptable to the pyrotechnic operator.
6.1.4
Provisions for lockable storage for pyrotechnics, approved by the authority
having jurisdiction, also shall be provided.
6.1.5
No personnel shall use or handle pyrotechnic materials or devices while
under the influence of intoxicating beverages, narcotics, controlled
substances, and prescription or nonprescription drugs that can impair
judgment.
6.1.6
Fire detection and life safety systems shall not be permitted to be interrupted
during the operation of pyrotechnic effects.
Exception No. 1: Portions of fire detection and life safety systems shall
be permitted to be interrupted during the operation of temporarily installed
pyrotechnic effects when the following conditions are met:
(a) Approval of the authority having jurisdiction is
received.
(b) Approval of the owner or owner’s agent is received.
(c) * An approved fire watch capable of directing the
operation of all fire detection and life safety systems installed in the building
is present.
Exception No. 2: Fire detection and life safety systems shall be permitted
to be interrupted during the operation of permanently installed pyrotechnic
effects only for initial acceptance of the system.
6.2 Firing Prerequisites
6.2.1*
All pyrotechnic devices shall be mounted in a secure manner to maintain
their proper positions and orientations so that, when they are fired,
the pyrotechnic effects described in the plan submitted by the permittee
are produced. Pyrotechnic devices shall be mounted so that no fallout
from the device endangers human lives, results in personal injury, or
damages property.
6.2.2
Pyrotechnic materials shall be fired only from equipment specifically
constructed for the purpose of firing pyrotechnic materials. The
pyrotechnic operator shall be responsible for selecting equipment and
materials that are compatible.
6.2.2.1
Where a pyrotechnic special effect is placed on or in contact with a
performer’s body, a means of shielding or containment adequate to prevent
any injury to the performer shall be provided. This protection shall
be sufficient to protect against the normal functioning of the pyrotechnic
special effect as well as any possible malfunction.
6.2.2.2
Converted electrical switch boxes, lamp sockets, lamp holders, plug fuses,
or other similar thin-walled, brittle devices shall not be used for
concussion mortars or flash pots.
6.2.3
Binary systems shall be mixed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
6.2.4
Binary systems shall be mixed one unit at a time, and no more units than
are needed for immediate use shall be mixed. Binary systems shall only
be mixed in the bottles supplied. No additional tools shall be used.
6.2.5
All holders shall be constructed and secured so that they remain in a
fixed position when the pyrotechnic device is fired.
6.2.6
Mortars and flash pots shall be constructed so that they do not fragment
when the pyrotechnic material is fired and so that their shapes are
not distorted after use. Distorted mortars and flash pots shall not
be used.
6.2.7
Before firing the pyrotechnic device, the pyrotechnic operator or designated
performance security staff shall prevent unauthorized entry into the
area where the special effects are to occur.
6.2.8
Rotating pyrotechnic devices, such as wheels and saxons, shall be mounted
securely so that their rotation does not cause the holder to fail.
6.2.9
Where rockets are launched before a proximate audience, performers, or
support personnel, the rockets shall be attached securely to a guide
wire or cable with both ends securely attached and placed on an impact-resistant
surface located at the terminal end of the guide. This guide wire or
cable shall be of sufficient strength and flame resistance to withstand
the exhaust from the rocket. An effective arrangement to stop the rocket
shall be provided.
6.2.10
Flares shall be placed so that any debris falls into a safe, flame-resistant
area.
6.2.11
Comets and mines shall be fired so that the trajectory of their pyrotechnic
material is not carried over the audience.
6.2.12
Waterfalls shall be placed for firing so that no flammable materials
are within their fallout area.
6.2.13
Pyrotechnic devices and materials used indoors shall be specifically
manufactured and marked for indoor use by the manufacturer.
6.2.14
Airbursts shall be permitted to be fired above the assembled audience,
subject to the following conditions:
(1) The airburst shall be suspended by a minimum 30-gauge
metal wire that is attached securely to a secure support acceptable to the
authority having jurisdiction.
(2) The airburst shall occur at a minimum height of
three times the diameter of the effect.
(3) Where the effect is demonstrated, there shall be
no burning or glowing particles below the 15-ft (4.6-m) level above the floor.
6.3* Firing Safeguards
6.3.1
Circuit testers shall supply no more than 25 mA. Testers shall be permitted
to include, but are not limited to, blasting galvanometers, low-current
multimeters, or a firing system with a built-in circuit tester.
6.3.2*
Power sources used for firing pyrotechnic devices shall be restricted
to batteries or isolated power supplies used for firing purposes only.
Exception: Firing systems employing isolation transformers shall be permitted
to use commercial power. Transformers shall be permitted to be located within
the controllers of firing systems, within the pyrotechnic devices themselves,
or elsewhere within the firing circuit.
6.3.3*
All firing systems shall be designed to ensure against accidental firing
by providing at least a two-step interlock in which no firing power
can be applied to any firing circuit unless the operator intentionally
does both of the following:
(1) Enables or arms the firing system
(2) Deliberately applies firing power
6.3.4
Firing systems shall not be left unattended while connected to loaded
pyrotechnic devices.
Exception: Firing systems that are disconnected from their power source
and have a removable activator, keyswitch, or coded arming system.
6.3.5
Pyrotechnic devices shall be fired only when the area where the effect
is to occur is in clear view of the pyrotechnic operator or an assistant
who is in direct communication with the operator. This communication
shall be permitted to be accomplished with signal
lights or other nonverbal means of communication.
6.3.6*
To allow the support personnel to take appropriate action, the use of
warning signal lights shall be permitted to indicate the impending
firing of a pyrotechnic effect, where necessary.
6.3.7
Because of their potential hazard, concussion mortars shall be placed
in a secured location that prevents the audience and support personnel
from gaining access to the secured location. The concussion mortars
shall be secured by placing them under the stage or by placing them
behind barricades made of equipment road cases.
6.3.8
While the authority having jurisdiction has the authority to stop the
discharge of pyrotechnics, the ultimate responsibility for firing shall
be that of the pyrotechnic operator.
6.4 Separation Distances for Audiences
6.4.1*
Each pyrotechnic device fired during a performance shall be separated
from the audience by at least 15 ft (4.6 m) but not by less than twice
the fallout radius of the device.
Exception: Where otherwise approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
6.4.2
Concussion mortars shall be separated from the audience by a minimum
of 25 ft (7.6 m).
6.4.3
There shall be no glowing or flaming particles within 10 ft (3 m) of
the audience.
6.5 Safety Precautions
6.5.1
The premises where pyrotechnic materials and devices are handled and
used shall be maintained in a neat and orderly condition and shall be
kept free of any conditions that can create a fire hazard.
6.5.2
The pyrotechnic operator shall inspect the containers in which all pyrotechnic
materials and devices have been shipped. No damaged pyrotechnic materials
and devices shall be used, and they shall be disposed of in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions. Before disposal, shipping containers
shall be inspected for loose pyrotechnic materials. If a shipping container
is found to contain loose pyrotechnic materials, it also shall be disposed
of in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
6.5.3
Pyrotechnic materials and devices shall be stored in accordance with
regulations promulgated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms
(ATF). A closed vehicle, such as a truck, shall be permitted to be
used for storage where permitted by ATF, state,
or local regulations.
6.5.4
No quantity of pyrotechnics greater than that needed for the production
of special effects in one performance or rehearsal shall be removed
from storage.
6.5.5
Smoking shall not be permitted within 25 ft (7.6 m) of the area where
pyrotechnics are being handled or fired.
Exception: Smoking by performers as part of the performance shall be
permitted as blocked in rehearsals and approved by the pyrotechnic operator
and the authority having jurisdiction.
6.5.6
No pyrotechnics shall be left unattended.
Exception: Where pyrotechnics are located in a secured, approved
location.
6.5.7*
The pyrotechnic operator and assistants shall wear safety glasses and
protective clothing applicable to the hazard associated with the material
during preparation and loading of pyrotechnic devices.
6.6 Performance
6.6.1
The pyrotechnic effect operator shall advise all performers and support
personnel that they are exposed to a potentially hazardous situation
when performing or otherwise carrying out their responsibilities in the
vicinity of a pyrotechnic effect. Performers and
support personnel familiar and experienced with the pyrotechnic effects being
used shall be permitted to be in the area of a pyrotechnic effect, but only
voluntarily and in the performance of their duties.
6.6.2
No part, projectile, or debris from the pyrotechnic material or device
shall be propelled so that it damages overhead properties, overhead
equipment, or the ceiling and walls of the performance site.
6.6.3
Immediately before any performance, the pyrotechnic operator shall make
a final check of wiring, position(s), hookups, and pyrotechnic devices
to ensure that they are in proper working order. The pyrotechnic operator
also shall verify safety distances.
6.6.4
The placement and wiring of all pyrotechnic devices shall be designed
to minimize the possibility of performers and support personnel disturbing
the devices during a performance.
6.6.5
The pyrotechnic operator shall exercise extreme care throughout the performance
to ensure that the pyrotechnic devices function correctly and that
the performers, support personnel, and audience are clear of the devices.
6.6.6 Smoke Control.
When pyrotechnics are fired, the quantity of smoke developed shall be
controlled so as not to obscure the visibility of exit signs or paths
of egress.
6.7 Requirements after Performance
6.7.1
Immediately after each performance and before support personnel remove
any property related to a performance, the pyrotechnic operator shall
verify that all pyrotechnic devices have been fired. Any unfired pyrotechnic
materials or devices shall be either fired
or disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
6.7.2
All unused pyrotechnics shall be disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions or returned to storage as soon as possible following the
performance or rehearsal.
6.7.3
After all other properties and equipment relating to the production have
been removed from the performance site, the pyrotechnic operator shall
verify that the performance site is free of any pyrotechnic devices
or materials.
6.7.4
All pyrotechnics shall be stored properly for transportation to the next
performance. No pyrotechnics shall be transported unless such transportation
meets U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.
6.7.5
Binary systems that have been mixed in excess of the needs of a rehearsal
or performance shall be stored as an explosive of the applicable class
or disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
(See Section 3.3 for storage requirements.)
6.7.6
Life safety and other systems that have been disarmed or disengaged as
specified by 4.4.3 and 6.1.6 shall be restored to normal operating
condition as soon as the likelihood of false alarms from the use of
pyrotechnics has passed.
6.7.7
The fire watch required by 6.1.6 shall remain present until the restoration
of normal operating conditions has been verified.
If you have any questions concerning the code requirements or need any
reference material please contact the Fire Marshal at 258-6805 or email
rgg@princeton.edu.
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