Fireworks and explosives
Fireworks and explosives can cause fires
and explosions in factories and warehouses.
They have the potential for a violent release
of pressure and heat that can cause severe
harm to people and damage to a building.
These materials can be ignited or detonated by
contact with ignition sources or by contamination,
where other chemicals or water cause the
material to become unstable.
Preventative measures include:
• excluding ignition sources;
• appropriate storage containers;
• training in the handling of fireworks and
explosives; and
• establishing separation distances between
explosive buildings and other buildings.
In most cases, where fireworks and explosives
are manufactured or stored, a licence will be
required under the Manufacture and Storage
of Explosives Regulations 2005.50 Further
guidance is available on the HSE website
www.hse.gov.uk/explosives and in an HSE
leaflet.51