November 2008

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In the run up to Bonfire Night celebrations this Wednesday 5th November, MORE TH>N BUSINESS is warning retailers of the costly consequences that the incorrect storage of fireworks can have on their business.

The additional revenue promised by the sale of fireworks will tempt many shopkeepers to stock them. However, improper storage can lead to explosions, serious injuries and in some cases even fatalities – which can be devastating to any small business.

Because of the danger posed by fireworks, there are strict laws and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines in place to govern their sale while promoting a safe working environment. To help retailers stay within the law, and to ensure they stay covered should they need to make an insurance claim, MORE TH>N BUSINESS has compiled a list of top tips on the safe storage of fireworks:

1. Firstly, ensure that you do not exceed the maximum permitted volume of fireworks for your premises. The volume of fireworks permitted on the shop floor is dependent on the size of the publicly accessible sales area, ranging from 12.5kg to 75kg
 Up to 250kg may be stored in a locked metal container
 Any more (up to 1,000kg) must be stored in a separate spark-proof store building, detached from any dwelling and constructed of brick, stone, concrete or iron.
2. Up to 12.5kg of fireworks may be kept in showcases, containers, cupboards or drawers, but these must remain locked shut to prevent unauthorised access. Electrical fittings in such cabinets should be disconnected.
3. Where there are five or more employees, a full risk assessment must be carried out and documented. It is important to ensure that in the event of a fire you have considered how to safely evacuate people and how to stop the fire from spreading.
4. Don’t store fireworks anywhere where they are in danger of becoming wet or damp
5. Sources of ignition and flammable materials should be kept at a safe distance. Keep people from smoking near fireworks.
6. All fireworks sold should comply with British Standards BS 7714: Part 2: 1988.
7. Matches are not fireworks and should not be stored with them.
8. Sparklers are fireworks and should be stored in the same way as other fireworks.
9. If more than 75kg of fireworks is being stored, a fire detection system should be fitted to protect anyone living in the vicinity. Access routes should also be provided that are separate from the store, and such a store should be closed off to prevent unauthorised access.
10. Most importantly, retailers must ensure they have obtained the correct licence from the local authority under the Firework Regulations 2004.

Mike Bowman, Head of MORE TH>N BUSINESS, commented: “It is imperative that retailers of fireworks ensure that they are operating in accordance with all legal requirements and guidelines to make certain they stay covered by their insurance for any eventuality.

“MORE TH>N BUSINESS recommends that retailers not only follow the guidelines offered here, but also familiarise themselves with the detailed guidance offered by the HSE, and the requirements of their individual insurance policies.”

For further information on MORE TH>N BUSINESS, call 0800 975 3796 or log onto www.morethanbusiness.com

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