This past New Year’s Eve, SafeWork NSW recorded the highest ever reported amount of illegal fireworks activity. There were more than 180 instances of unauthorised firework use across the state. In the lead-up to Australia Day, warnings are still in place as SafeWork NSW persists with its compliance and verification actions centred around fireworks.
As the primary governing body for all matters relating to fireworks – covering import, supply, storage, manufacture, transport, and usage – SafeWork NSW stipulates that anyone partaking in these activities must hold a valid licence. This includes purchasing, storing, supplying, or transporting fireworks, and is a key component of an effective WHS management system like Bluesafe SWMS.
The role played by SafeWork NSW is vastly essential, working hand-in-hand with the NSW Police Force in ensuring safety within our community. If anyone participates in the selling, buying, storage, transportation or discharging fireworks without due authorisation, they may be fined up to $27,500. They also risk being imprisoned for up to 12 months. Similarly, using a comprehensive workplace health and safety product such as the Bluesafe WHS Management System can assist in avoiding any such penalties.
In saying this, SafeWork NSW also emphasizes the importance of managing risks associated with environmental factors, and maintaining access channels for emergency services. Licensed operators must enforce specific exclusion zones for each display, following the operational conditions set for pyrotechnicians and single-use fireworks licenses. All license holders have a duty to inform authorities before organizing a firework display. This includes informing the NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW, Rural Fire Service and Local Council.
To conveniently find a legal firework display happening across NSW, the public has access to the Fireworks Display Search. Furthermore, it is encouraged that if a member of the public becomes aware of any illegal activity concerning fireworks, it should be reported immediately to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or directly to SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50. They may also utilize the Speak Up Saves Lives app. More information about explosive and fireworks safety can be acquired from the SafeWork NSW website.
Trent Curtin, the Head of SafeWork NSW, said: “The recent festive season has marked one of the most challenging due to an alarming increase in illegal fireworks activity. Despite the efforts of authorities, there was a noticeable spike in unlicensed and illegal fireworks, which puts public safety at risk. If you handle fireworks without a license, you risk injuring yourself and others, and there can be serious consequences. Only those with either a current NSW pyrotechnician or single use licence are authorised. SafeWork NSW encourages the public to report any illegal use or sale of fireworks immediately.”
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/record-number-of-illegal-fireworks-sparks-australia-day-warning