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Explosives and fireworks - sale/registration

The Explosives Act 1875 permits the storage of a limited quantity of fireworks and explosives (5kg) for an unlimited period of time, or the storage of an unlimited quantity of fireworks for up to 14 days prior to their use.

It is generally taken that these provisions apply to 'private use', that means for use by the keeper or associates (for example, a school bonfire) but not for sale. It also applies where local operators are storing fireworks prior to them firing a professional display.

Where a greater quantity of explosives is being stored, the premises need to be registered with their local authority.

Different parts of explosives/firework law are enforced by various bodies:

  • The Department of Trade and Industry
  • The Fire Brigade
  • The Health and Safety Executive (or their agents)
  • Local Authority Trading Standards Departments
  • The Police

Registration

The premises must be registered with the fire brigade in the name of the occupier, either for 'Gunpowder' or 'Mixed Explosives', and the registration must be renewed annually.

Storage of Explosives

Where the premises registered for the keeping of explosives is a shop, or other similar dwelling, the explosives must be kept in Mode B. This requires them to be kept in a substantial receptacle, that is closed and secured, so as to prevent access to unauthorised persons. This container must only be used for storing explosives. The maximum quantity to be kept on such premises must not be more than 25kg. Please contact your local Trading Standards Department for further information.

Storage of fireworks

Generally, storage of fireworks for retail sale would be in a Mode B store, for which the following applies:

  • The maximum amount of fireworks that can be kept in a room where the public might go is 50kg. You can keep fireworks in glass showcases, metal containers, wooden boxes, cupboards or drawers, but these must be locked shut or positioned so that no unauthorised person can reach them. You must not put glass showcases containing fireworks in your shop window.
  • A quantity of fireworks over that 50kg limit (up to a further 200kg) can be stored elsewhere in the building, but must be kept in closed metal containers. Each container must hold not more than 50kg.
  • Any container being used for storing fireworks must not contain other items. You must keep anything flammable (or likely to cause a fire or explosion) a safe distance away from any fireworks.

Storage Modes for fireworks

There are two 'Modes' (sets of rules) for keeping fireworks for sale at registered premises:

  • Mode A - requires a safe and secure building or room, not attached to a dwelling and used only for storing fireworks, up to a maximum weight of 1000kg. Please contact your local Trading Standards for further information if you wish to apply for a Mode A store.
  • Mode B - allows the storage of up to 250kg of fireworks in a building which is also used for other purposes (such as a shop), with strict regulations about how the fireworks are contained.

Exposure of fireworks for sale

All due precautions must be taken to prevent accidents by fire or explosion. Fireworks must not be kept dangerously near to oils, paints, matches or any other article of a highly flammable or explosive nature, and must not be kept in shop windows or on open shelves and counters. Empty boxes and dummy fireworks can be used for show purposes.

Sale to children

It is illegal to sell fireworks to any person apparently under the age of eighteen years.

Accidents

Whenever an accident occurs by explosion or fire in registered premises, causing loss of life or personal injury, the occupier of the premises must notify the Health and Safety Executive.

Inspection of registered premises

The occupier of registered premises must allow any authorised officer of the council to inspect the place and receptacles where explosives are kept.

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