Fireworks Definitions:

Approved- Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

Audience-Spectators whose primary purpose is to view a performance.

Authority Having Jurisdiction-The organization, office, or individual responsible for approving equipment, an installation, or a procedure. A permit will be issued when codes are satisfied.

Concussion Effect-A pyrotechnic effect that produces a loud noise and a violent jarring shock for dramatic effect.

Discharge Site- The area immediately surrounding the fireworks mortars used for an outdoor fireworks display.

Display Site-The immediate area where a fireworks display is conducted. This includes the discharge site, the fallout area, and the required separation distance from mortars to spectator viewing areas. The display site does not include spectator viewing areas or vehicle parking areas.

Fallout Area-The area in which any hazardous debris falls after a pyrotechnic device is fired. The fallout area is defined as a circle that, in turn, is defined by the fallout radius.

Fallout Radius-A line that defines the fallout area of a pyrotechnic device. The line is defined by two points. The first point is at the center of a pyrotechnic device. The second point is the point most distant from the center of the pyrotechnic device at which any hazardous debris from the device can fall.

Fireworks-any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect for entertainment purposes by combustion, deflagration, or detonation that meets the definition of "Consumer Fireworks" or "Display Fireworks" as set forth in Code NFPA 1123.

Fireworks Display-A presentation of fireworks for a public or private gathering.

Flash Pot-A device used with flash powder that produces a flash of light and is capable of directing the flash in an upward direction.

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. This includes, but is not limited to, hot sparks, heavy casing fragments, and unignited components. Materials such as confetti, lightweight foam pieces, feathers, or novelties, are not to be construed as hazardous debris.

Permitee-The person or persons who are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits for a production. The permitee can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. The pyrotechnic operator is not necessarily the permitee.

Proximate Audience-An audience closer to pyrotechnic devices than permitted by NFPA 1123.

Pyrotechnic Device-any device containing pyrotechnic materials and capable of producing a special effect as defined in code NFPA 1126.

Pyrotechnic Operator (Special Effects Operator)- An individual who has responsibility for pyrotechnic safety and who controls, initiates, or otherwise creates special effects. The operator is also responsible for storing, setting up, and removing pyrotechnic materials and devices after a performance.

Shall-Indicates a mandatory requirement.

Should-Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not required.

Special Effect-A visual or audible effect used for entertainment purposes, often produced to create an illusion. For example, smoke might be produced to create the impression of fog being present, or a puff of smoke, a flash of light, and a loud sound might be produced to create the impression that a cannon has been fired.

Sponsor-The organization (person, group, or government agency) that arranges with a duly authorized fireworks supplier for its services in presenting a fireworks display or in providing fireworks for use in a display.

UD Liaison-This is the University of Delaware person who is primarily accountable for all aspects of the event dealing specifically with the Fireworks/Special Effects. This person either contracts with the licensed fireworks vendor or assists the outside sponsor to coordinate the fireworks display.

Questions regarding the fireworks procedures may be addressed to Kevin McSweeney or call 831-6847.