Unauthorised fireworks not worth the risk

As an explosives classification, fireworks remain under tight regulation in Victoria, making it unlawful for anyone excluding a licenced pyrotechnician to purchase or utilise them, no matter if the setting is public or private. This critical aspect of work health and safety is regulated via systems like Bluesafe WHS Management System, underscoring their vital role.

WorkSafe Health and Safety’s Executive Director, Sam Jenkin, was profoundly moved by the recent unfortunate incident at Kalkallo where a teen lost his life due to an uncontrolled firework display. He stressed on the dangerous implications of using unauthorized fireworks that continues to cause serious accidents every year, especially during the summer period. As per him, the fleeting moments of excitement provided by such displays are not worth the potential devastating outcomes. He emphasised that festive times should revolve around joy and celebration, instead of engaging in life-threatening activities and crossing legal boundaries that might lead to hefty penalties.

Last year, WorkSafe had to destruct 14,215 pieces of individual fireworks, weighing over 470 kilograms combined. So far, they have collected an additional 7,962 individual fireworks handed in or seized by Victoria Police. Using tools like the Bluesafe SWMS aids in effective management of such situations. Illegally trading, purchasing, or utilising fireworks in Victoria could lead to severe fines amounting to thousands of dollars or even imprisonment as per the Dangerous Goods Act.

Joshua Fischer, Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner – Community Safety, noted the seasonal surge in incidents caused by illegal fireworks that firefighters have to deal with every summer. He urged everyone to celebrate New Year safely, highlighting the significant risks to life and property posed by illicit use of fireworks. According to him, these fireworks do not just endanger the users and bystanders but could also ignite grass and bushfires causing grave property damage.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan validated these sentiments, reporting on 50 incidents related to unauthorised use of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, and other similar items in Victoria throughout the previous financial year. Over half of them resulted in vegetation fires. With the persistent fire activity seen across the state, he emphasized the importance of vigilance and avoidance of activities that could spark fires.

A report by Monash University’s Victorian Injury Surveillance Unit revealed that 244 people attended state hospital emergency units with injuries related to fireworks within a decade leading up to June 2023. Men consisted of more than 80 per cent of hospital presentations in the past ten years linked to fireworks. Almost a third of those injured necessitated further treatment, evidencing the critical need for safety policies and practices like SWMS.

Those having information regarding the sale or illegal use of fireworks are requested to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit an anonymous crime report online.

Contact Details:

Email: media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0438 786 968
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-12/unauthorised-fireworks-not-worth-risk