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06 Jun

SafeWork NSW targeting long weekend firework displays

06 Jun 2017
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SafeWork NSW inspectors across the State will target unsafe fireworks displays this long weekend.

SafeWork NSW records show that over the past two years there have been three fatalities from illegal fireworks and numerous serious injuries, including burns and loss of limbs

SafeWork NSW will be conducting a blitz of single-use fireworks licence holders and licensed pyrotechnicians throughout regional NSW to ensure they are complying with licence requirements and not putting people’s safety at risk.

Executive Director of SafeWork NSW, Peter Dunphy said anyone not complying with their licence faces on the spot fines and having their licence cancelled.

“Fireworks should only be set off by trained and licensed individuals who know how to manage the risks and ensure everyone’s safety,” Mr Dunphy said.

“Community groups such as sporting clubs, car clubs and schools often hold fireworks displays over the June long weekend.

“With many children and families attending these events, we want to ensure no one’s safety is put at risk.

“SafeWork inspectors will be conducting spot checks of single-use licence holders and licensed pyrotechnicians to ensure they are complying with their licence requirements in relation to the use, storage and transport of display fireworks.

“Any licence holder found to be breaching their licence faces on the spot fines of up $2,500 and having their licence cancelled.”

In NSW, the possession, use, storage and transport of display fireworks is restricted to SafeWork NSW licence holders. Licensed pyrotechnicians are also required to notify authorities before a fireworks display, including police, Fire and Rescue NSW or the NSW Rural Fire Service and local Council.

Almost two tonnes of illegal fireworks has also been seized resulting in two prosecutions, including a 10-month custodial sentence.

SafeWork worked closely with the NSW Police to target individuals attempting to sell illegal fireworks on social media in the lead up to Australia Day 2017. SafeWork issued $10,000 in on the spot fines and cancelled two fireworks licences as part of the operation. Investigations into other alleged illegal fireworks sales are still under investigation.

SafeWork has also conducted a program of inspections of more than 100 fireworks displays and import consignments across the state.

Anyone with information on the illegal use or sale of fireworks should call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000. Information is available by calling SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.

Our website has a list of approved fireworks displays and also clearly details our licensing requirements.

Video news grabs of Executive Director of SafeWork NSW, Peter Dunphy can be downloaded here: https://vimeo.com/200776840/038a04c3fc

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