Right in time for the Fourth of July, OSHA introduces a new Web page to help employers and workers understand and minimize risks in the pyrotechnics industry.

Common hazards and controls found in the pyrotechnics industry are described, and the Web page also contains information for both fireworks retail sales workers and display operators. OSHA has included two new posters that offer safety tips for display operators and for individuals involved in retail fireworks sales.

The site also references other federal standards associated with the industry, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which addresses consumer usage. The OSHA Web site only addresses firework retail sales and commercial pyrotechnic displays.

Best industry practices from the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) are demonstrated in streaming videos based upon National Fire Protection Association consensus standards. Additional videos illustrate how to safely celebrate with ground, aerial and waterborne fireworks displays.