Fireworks and bonfire advice
Every year serious injuries are caused by people not handling
fireworks properly. However organised displays are the safest way
for people to enjoy fireworks, provided that they are properly
managed within the law.
Putting on a fireworks display
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and subsidiary
legislation covers firework displays which involve a work activity
(i.e. where at least one person will be involved on a professional
basis). This legislation places duties in respect of the
health and safety of everyone involved in arranging and giving the
display, the spectators and other people near the display site.
The Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations 2005
permit you to keep up to 50kg (net) of hazard type 4 fireworks for
up to 21 days provided that these are not for sale or for use at
work. If you indend to use the fireworks for a commercial
display or for some other work purpose, or you wish to store a
larger quantity of fireworks, or more powerful fireworks then you
will normally need to register with us. Our
guide Safe and Successful Firework
Displays contains useful advice.