A. Only some sparklers and some larger individual devices can be sold unpacked.  All other fireworks should be sold in manufacturer packed sets.  The contents of these must not be taken out of their packs and sold separately.

A.  There are two ‘Modes’ – set 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 (NEC).
• Mode B allows the storage of up to 250kg (NEC) of fireworks in a building which is also used for other purposes, with strict regulations about how they are contained.The following details come under Mode B

Sales Area Storage

Under MSER the maximum amount allowed in the shop area is dependant upon the size of the shop floor area (Click Here for Info).  Fireworks in the sales area must be contained in a display case or storage cupboard or cabinet with a maximum of 12.5kg NEC per unit.

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• Fireworks 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.  For instance, Bengal Matches must be stored separately.
• When fireworks are actually being sold, keep them exposed for as little time as possible.  In any case, the maximum amount of fireworks that can be exposed at one time is 2kg (NEC).
• You (and your employees) must take due care to prevent unauthorised access to any fireworks and avoid accidents by fire.
• You must keep anything flammable (or likely to cause a fire or explosion) a safe distance away from any fireworks, however they are being stored.
• Under the new regulations licensing authorities may request to see information about firework transactions exceeding 50kgs nec explosive content in particular – the date that the fireworks were supplied, the date that the supplier supplied to another person, or proposed to supply and the total weight.

A  Your premises should already meet various fire regulations so what follows is extra advice for the period while you are selling fireworks and is not a complete statement of your obligations.

• Do not store fireworks in passageways or under stairs and keep these clear at all times.  Do not obstruct any doors.
• Keep water-type fire extinguishers handy and make sure they are properly maintained.  Buckets of water or sand are useful as a stand-by.
• Make sure you (and any staff) know how to call the Fire brigade quickly.  Have a display notice that tells everyone what to do if there is a fire.
• If someone suspects a fire, get everyone out of your shop and call the Fire Brigade immediately.  As soon as the Fire Officer arrives, tell him or her that fireworks are involved and explain where and how the fireworks are stored.

• Watch the age limit for buying fireworks.  Do not sell to anyone under 18 – hooliganism with fireworks can be a problem.

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