Media release
Fireworks safety testing completed
Wednesday, 27 June 2007
The Director of NT WorkSafe, Neil Watson today announced that only two fireworks have been withdrawn from sale in the Northern Territory this year.
"NT WorkSafe officers and third party assessors test fireworks stringently every year to ensure that they comply with the performance criteria laid down by Australian Standards. Fireworks that do not comply are not permitted to go on sale," Mr Watson said.
One dangerous firework was banned last year and Mr Watson said this certainly indicates that the manufacturers and providers of fireworks are listening to NT WorkSafe and incorporating its safety advice into their products.
"Hopefully, this will help to reduce the incidence of injury," he said.
Mr Watson said safety considerations must come first throughout the Territory.
"People must act responsibly when they set up and operate their own private fireworks. Young children must be carefully supervised at all times and people should take special care to look after their pets."
Mr Watson emphasised that:
The sale of fireworks is restricted to two days, Saturday 30 June and Sunday 1 July. Fireworks can only be purchased from approved fireworks retailers between the hours of 9am and 9pm on those two days. Fireworks cannot be sold to persons under 16 years of age.
- Fireworks can only be ignited between 6pm and 11pm on Territory Day, Saturday 1 July. Special permits are required at all other times. "It is illegal to keep fireworks after Territory Day," Mr Watson said.
- Strict penalties apply under the Dangerous Goods Act for breaches of fireworks regulations with fines of up to $2000.
"Safety bulletins will be displayed at each retail outlet and retailers are being advised to remind customers of the need to follow manufacturers’ instructions and also the guidelines issued by NT WorkSafe," Mr Watson said.