Did the rules for getting fireworks and explosives approved (EX/FW numbers) change in 2026?

Yes. A PHMSA final rule, “Hazardous Materials: Streamlining Requirements for the Approval of Certain Energetic Materials,” took effect June 2, 2026 (Federal Register document 2026-10962). It streamlines how certain fireworks are approved and classified under the Hazardous Materials Regulations: it adds a new “FW number” to the definitions in 49 CFR §171.8 for low-hazard Division 1.4G consumer firework devices certified under §173.64, reorganizes the explosives and fireworks classification and packaging provisions (§173.56, §173.59, §173.63, §173.64), updates the approval-program procedures in 49 CFR Part 107 (§107.705 and §107.713), and allows self-certification of certain ground-device fireworks through the PHMSA portal. This change is aimed at fireworks manufacturers, importers, and shippers who obtain explosives approvals — it does not change the day-to-day duties of general hazmat employees or the hazmat employee training required under 49 CFR §172.704.

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