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APA remarks by Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director,
on signing the OSHA and APA Alliance
OSHA Alliance Signing Ceremony
June 9, 2004
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Good afternoon, I'm Julie Heckman, Executive Director of the American Pyrotechnics Association.
As the leading trade association of the fireworks industry, the APA is extremely pleased to enter into this Alliance
with OSHA. The APA and our 260 member companies are excited to have the opportunity to work collaboratively with OSHA
to enhance the overall safety and health of workers in the fireworks industry.
During the past decade, the fireworks industry has experienced unprecedented growth. In fact, the consumption of
fireworks in the United States has risen dramatically from 67 million pounds in 1990 to almost 221 million pounds in
2003. Fireworks are now associated with celebrating all sorts of occasions, not just our Nation's independence, with
large outdoor public displays. Proximate pyrotechnics, or indoor fireworks, are increasingly used to enhance theatrical
productions, rock concerts, sporting events, ice shows and political conventions.
And, the use of consumer or backyard fireworks by the general public, has skyrocketed in recent years due to a renewed
spirit of pride and patriotism and an increase in the number of states allowing consumer fireworks. More states than ever
before allow the sale and use of consumer fireworks to the general public.
With the dramatic increase in fireworks usage, the APA has an enhanced resolve to ensure that fireworks and pyrotechnic
devices are manufactured, distributed and used in a safe manner. Accordingly, entering into this Alliance with OSHA is
of paramount importance to the APA. The professional fireworks industry has so much expertise to lend to the regulatory
and enforcement community, and the APA is excited to share our best practices and guidance with OSHA to help ensure that
the entire fireworks industry, nationwide, operates in a safe and healthy manner.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Henshaw, Mr. Lee Smith, Mr. Matt Chibbaro, and the entire OSHA Alliance
team for their dedication and commitment to finalizing phase one of our collaborative projects: The amazing two posters
that we see here on display today, addressing Display Operator safety and Retail Sales Tips for employees at consumer
fireworks sales venues. The posters, along with the two guidance documents prepared to-date on these topics, demonstrate that
the APA and OSHA are off to a terrific start under this new Alliance program to reinforce safety tips, and further educate
employees in the fireworks industry. I am personally proud to be affiliated with these endeavors, as is the APA.
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