Republic of Latvia Cabinet Regulation No. 214 Adopted 22 March 2011

Regulations for the Storage, Sale, Acquisition, Carrying, Transportation, Manufacture, Demonstration (Use) of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles, as well as the Organisation of Commercial Exhibitions and Provision of Pyrotechnic Services

Issued pursuant to
Section 12, Paragraph eight, Section 14 and 18 of
the Law On Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles

1. General Provisions

1. This Regulation prescribes:

1.1. procedures and restrictions for the storage and sale of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles;

1.2. procedures for the sale and storage of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and restrictions in non-specialised trade facilities;

1.3. procedures for manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles;

1.4. procedures for the carrying and transportation of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles;

1.5. procedures for the organisation of commercial exhibitions of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and demonstration (use) of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles;

1.6. procedures for provision of pyrotechnic services; and

1.7. procedures for the acquisition, carrying, transportation and storage of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

2. A merchant shall acquire, store, sell, exhibit and demonstrate in commercial exhibitions, as well as use in the provision of pyrotechnic services only the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of the category specified in a special authorisation (licence).

3. A merchant shall ensure that during the working hours the places indicated in a special authorisation (licence), where commercial activity is being carried out with fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, are accessible by the state authorities which are entitled to carry out the control of commercial activity.

4. A merchant shall ensure that the work with fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles is carried out by the persons who are entitled to represent a commercial company (hereinafter - officials of the merchant) and employees who are directly related to manufacture, storage, sale of pyrotechnic articles or provision of pyrotechnic services (hereinafter - employees) and regarding whom it was notified, upon receipt of the relevant special authorisation (licence), as well as the officials of the merchant and employees regarding whom the opinion of the State Police has been received that the restrictions laid down in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles do not apply to them.

5. A merchant shall ensure training of employees regarding categories, types of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, procedures for the storage, acquisition, sale, carrying and transportation and fire safety regulations.

6. Fire safety measures for the storage, sale, manufacture and demonstration (use) of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in commercial exhibitions shall be ensured in accordance with the requirements of the laws and regulations governing fire safety and the fire safety requirements laid down in this Regulation.

7. Executive body of the merchant shall control, how the employees observe the regulations for the circulation of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

2. Storage and Sale of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles

2.1. Storage of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles in a Warehouse and Wholesale Trade Thereof

8. A merchant shall store category 1 fireworks in the premises conforming to the requirements of the fire safety regulations.

9. A merchant shall store category 2, 3 and 4 fireworks and category T1 or T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles in specially arranged warehouses the address of which is indicated in a special authorisation (licence) (hereinafter - warehouse).

10. A warehouse shall be located in a safe distance from residential houses, public buildings and structures, as well as explosive objects, forests and main motor roads of the State significance (hereinafter - protected objects). The minimum distance from a warehouse up to the main motor roads of the State significance shall be 40 m, but up to other protected objects - 30 m.

11. Safe distance (R) shall be calculated using the following formula:

, where

Q - propellant mass (kg) of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles present in the warehouse.

12. Safe distance (P) up to the main motor roads of the State significance shall be calculated using the following formula:

, where

Q - propellant mass (kg) of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles present in the warehouse.

13. A warehouse shall conform to the following fire safety requirements and conditions:

13.1. the warehouse is the structure of fireproofness level U2;

13.2. the minimum reaction to fire class of construction of the warehouse is A2-s1,d0;

13.3. the warehouse is built so as in the case of explosion damage is not caused outside the warehouse or the explosion shock wave is directed in a safe direction, usually upwards;

13.4. if the strength of external wall of the warehouse in the direction of protected objects is equivalent to brick external wall the thickness of which is not less than 510 mm, and its internal wall strength, which separates the warehouse from the rest of premises, is equivalent to brick wall the thickness of which is not less than 380 mm, or if the warehouse is divided by partition walls in several storage facilities and category 4 fireworks are stored in a metal containers (lockers), the length of danger zone may be reduced for two times;

13.5. the windows of the warehouse are located in the sun side, covered with colour, shaded, covered or otherwise ensured that they prevent sun beams. The warehouse is dry and well ventilated, its floors and walls are smooth and suitable for wet cleaning;

13.6. the floor covering is resistant to sparks;

13.7. the warehouse has a protection against lightning, as well as appropriate electrical devices which are installed in the premises with explosive environment;

13.8. the warehouse is equipped with fire detection and alarm system and security alarm system , and they are connected to the central security control panel.

14. Regardless of the area in the warehouse there shall be at least two portable fire extinguishers the minimum capacity of which is six kilograms, and one portable fire extinguisher the minimum capacity of which is 20 kg.

15. Water steam, oil or air heating shall be used for the heating of the warehouse. Used hot surfaces shall be easily cleaned, external surface temperature shall not exceed 60 °C.

16. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be placed not less than 0.5 metres from heating devices.

17. In the premises where fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles are stored, it is prohibited to smoke and use open flame, as well as to use devices, tools, instruments and other articles the use of which may cause sparks.

18. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and packaging thereof shall be stored placed one on another or on the shelves so as they could not deform.

19. On the floor under the boxes of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be at least 5 cm high rack, the distance of a pile from the wall shall be not less than 10 cm.

20. Piles of fire works and theatrical pyrotechnic articles without supports shall be in such height so as the ladder would not be necessary when taking the boxes. The largest height of a pile, when piling by hands, shall be two metres.

21. Boxes in a pile or shelf shall be placed so as the inscriptions on the packaging can be seen. The distance between piles and shelves shall be such in order the boxes could be freely carried. The distance shall not be less than a metre.

22. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall not be connected to electric ignitors. Electric ignitors shall be located in the room which is separated from the warehouse, or in separate metal locker or box in the warehouse.

23. Only such quantity of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in the warehouse in order their total propellant mass would not exceed the quantity indicated in a special authorisation (licence). There shall be a documents in the warehouse in which there is indicated a propellant mass of each type of firework and theatrical pyrotechnic article.

24. Also industrial goods of other type (excluding oxidising, extremely flammable or highly flammable substances and materials) may be stored in the warehouse separately from the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

25. The wholesale trade in one warehouse may be performed only by one merchant, but the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles indicated in a special authorisation (licence) for the ensuring of its operation may stored by several merchants, delimiting fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles owned by each merchant.

26. If several merchants store fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in one warehouse, they shall be placed so as it may be possible to identify each merchant and articles owned thereby. Total propellant mass of the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles may not exceed the quantity that is indicated in the special authorisation (licence) issued to the merchant who is renting a part of the warehouse.

27. A merchant, who is renting a part of the warehouse to another merchant, shall be responsible for the procedures for storage of the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

28. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles from the warehouse shall be sold from the warehouse in wholesale trade to a merchant, who has received a special authorisation (licence) for the sale of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of the relevant category or for the provision of pyrotechnic services, as well as to legal persons who have received a permit of the State Police for the acquisition, storage and use of category 4 fireworks and category T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles. The seller shall request the purchaser to present a conforming special authorisation (licence) or a permit of the State Police.

29. A copy of the relevant special authorisation (licence) or printout of the special authorisation (licence) issued in the form of electronic document shall be located at the wholesale trade point in a place visible for a buyer.

30. Outside inhabited areas a container intended for storage of industrially manufactured explosive articles may be used as a warehouse of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles (hereinafter - container). A container shall conform to the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 of this Regulation.

31. Containers shall be placed on land which is owned by or in lawful possession of the merchant, in a safe distance from protected objects. A fence shall be arranged around a container in a distance of at least 20 m. Objects, other buildings, containers of other goods referred to in Paragraph 10 if this Regulation, as well as trees and bushes shall be in a safe distance from the container.

32. A container shall be used and fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored therein in conformity with the exploitation regulations of a container laid down by the manufacturer, as well as taking into account the procedures indicated in Paragraphs 16, 17, 18, 22 and 23 of this Regulation.

33. It is not allowed to sell fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles from containers in wholesale trade and retail trade, as well as to store therein goods of other type.

2.2. Storage of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles at Permanent Location of Sale and Retail Trade

34. Category 1 fireworks shall be stored and sold at places for storage and sale of industrial and mixed goods, conforming to the fire safety regulations.

35. A merchant who has received a special authorisation (licence) for the sale of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, shall store and sell category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles in retail trade in specially arranged permanent location of sale the address of which is indicated in a special authorisation (licence) (hereinafter - shop). To store and sell category 4 fireworks and category T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles are not allowed.

36. A shop shall conform to the following fire safety requirements and conditions:

36.1. a shop shall have a sales room and storage facility;

36.2. a shop shall be a structure of fireproofness level U2 at least or it shall be built in the structure the minimum fireproofness level of which is U2.

36.3. a shop shall be separated from other premises in a fireproof manner in conformity with the requirements to be applied for the structure of the relevant fireproofness level;

36.4. a storage facility shall be separated from the sales room and other premises in a fireproof manner in conformity with the requirements to be applied for the structure of the relevant fireproofness level;

36.5. a storage facility shall be equipped with lockable double door. External door and frame thereof shall be made of metal. The total thickness of the door shall not be less than 40 mm;

36.6. the construction of the storage facility shall ensure absorbing of explosion shock wave in the storage facility itself;

36.7. the storage facility shall be equipped with fire detection and alarm system and security alarm system, and they shall be connected to the central security control panel.

36.8. in the storage facility there is appropriate electrical devices which are installed in the premises with explosive environment;

36.9. the shop has a separate exit outside.

37. Piles of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in the storage facility shall not be higher than two metres.

38. It is not allowed to arrange a shop, to store and sell category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles at the location of sale where one or several merchants are carrying out retail trade in one building mutually separated locations of sale, if they have not separate exit to outside or the total area of all locations of sale (sales room) is more than 500 square metres.

39. If a shop is arranged in a residential house or public building or structure, category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in the shop in such quantity in order for their propellant mass would not be more than 160 kg.

40. If there is no storage facility in the shop category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in place non-accessible for buyers in a lockable metal cabinet (box) the wall thickness of which is less than 2 mm and fireproofness of this is more then 30 minutes. The total propellant mass of category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles in the shop shall not be more than 100 kg.

41. Flammable liquids or other highly flammable substances may not be located near the metal cabinet (box). The cabinet shall be located in the distance of 0.5 m from the heating device. The temperature of the external surface of he heating devices may not be higher than 60 °C. The relevant warning sign shall be placed on the external wall of the metal cabinet (box).

42. Category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be placed in a location of sale separately from other goods in a showcase or on shelves separated from a buyer with a counter. Self-service is not allowed in the shop.

43. Category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks of and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be placed in a sales room of the shop in such quantity in order for their total propellant mass would not be more than 20 kg.

44. Category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in a shop only in such quantity in order for their propellan mass would not exceed the quantity indicated in a special authorisation (licence). There shall be a documents in the shop in which there is indicated a propellant mass of each type of firework and theatrical pyrotechnic article.

45. Delivery of category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall not take place during the working hours of the shop through the premises where buyers are (may be) present.

46. A copy of the relevant special authorisation (licence) or printout of the special authorisation (licence) issued in the form of electronic document shall be located in the shop in a place visible for a buyer.

47. A merchant may be store also industrial goods of other type (excluding oxidising, extremely flammable or highly flammable substances and materials) in the shop if the total area of the sales room does not exceed 150 square metres.

48. During a time period when a merchant does not sell category 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles and they are not present in the storage facility, the storage and sale of other goods is allowed in the shop.

49. When selling certain category and type fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles to a person who is entitled to acquire the relevant type fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and has reached the age laid done in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles, in the case of any doubts the seller shall request to present a personal identification documents in order to ascertain regarding the age f the buyer.

50. When selling category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles which cause a noise effect similar to explosion noise (petards and the prototypes thereof), the seller shall request a natural person to present a hunters certificate.

51. When selling category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles, the merchant shall ensure that the following information is indicated in the instructions for use thereof in the official language:

51.1. name and category of the pyrotechnic article;

51.2. type of use and restrictions for use of the pyrotechnic article;

51.3. type of start-up of the pyrotechnic article and methods for safe preparation and use;

51.4. distance from the pyrotechnic article up to audience (danger zone) in metres;

51.5. age limit for the sale and use of the pyrotechnic articles;

51.6. person's action if the pyrotechnic article does not work within the specified time.

52. If some units of category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks of and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles are soled from the packaging or the information referred to in Paragraph 50 of this Regulation cannot be indicated on each article, it shall be indicated in a separate instructions for use in the official language and issued to a buyer together with the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic article sold.

53. Inscriptions on the category 1, 2 and 3 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles or the texts in the instructions for use shall be clearly visible, legible and indelible.

54. When selling fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, the seller shall ascertain whether the required information is indicated on them or the instructions for use are appended thereto.

2.3. Seasonal Trade in Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles in Non-specialised Trade Facilities

55. Seasonal trade in category 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be allowed in a fixed location of permanent sale of industrial or mixed goods, which is separated from the location of sale of other goods. Fireworks shall be sold using a separate counter, and they shall be stored in a metal cabinet (box) with the wall thickness of at least 2 mm.

56. In a location where seasonal trade in category 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles are carried, the sale of other industrial goods are not allowed, except for category 1 fireworks.

57. Seasonal trade in category 1 and 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be prohibited at petrol stations and other fire-hazardous and explosive objects, kiosks, as well as from containers, vehicles, on the streets, in tunnels, markets and other places outside permanent locations of sale.

58. A fire detection and alarm system connected to the central security control panel shall be arranged at a permanent location of sale where the seasonal trade in category 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles is intended.

59. Category 1 and 2 fireworks of and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles which in total contain not more than 100 kg of propellant mass may be located at a location of sale of which fireworks of category 1 and 2 and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of category T1 containing propellant mass up to 20 kg may be located behind the counter, but category 1 and 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles containing 80 kg of propellant mass - in a metal cabinet (box).

60. A metal cabinet (box) shall be locked at a location of seasonal sale. A warning sign shall be placed outside the doors of the cabinet in conformity with the laws and regulations regarding safe use of safety signs at workplaces.

61. At a seasonal location of sale the distance from a metal cabinet (box), where the category 1 and 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles are stored, up to the heating devices shall be at least 0.5 metres. It is prohibited to smoke, to use open flame and electric heaters with open type heating elements at a location of seasonal sale.

62. There shall be at least two fire extinguishers at a location of seasonal sale of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles the minimum capacity of which is five kilograms (each).

63. The distance from a location of seasonal sale up to the fire extinguishers shall not be more than 10 metres.

64. Self-service sale is prohibited at locations of seasonal sale of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

65. A merchant shall perform the seasonal trade in category 2 fireworks and category T1 theatrical pyrotechnic articles in conformity with the plan of the location of sale submitted to the licensing commission of the State Police and only during a time period indicated in a special authorisation (licence) at the location of sale the address of which is indicated in the special authorisation (licence) or annex thereof.

66. A copy of a special authorisation (licence) for seasonal trade in category 2 fireworks and category T1theatrical pyrotechnic articles, copies of annexes to the special authorisation (licence), a copy of the plan of a location of seasonal sale and a copy of the document attesting the conformity assessment of the firework or theatrical pyrotechnic article and belonging to the category 1, 2 or T1, shall be located at the location of seasonal sale.

67. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be sold by a seller the personal data of which are indicated in the annex to the special authorisation (licence). The seller shall have a personal identification document at the location of sale which must be presented upon request of an official of the control authority.

68. A merchant shall ensure the training of a seller in the field related to categories, types of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, restrictions, procedures and safety of storage, transportation and use, procedures, restrictions for acquisition, sale and use, and instructions for use of each type of article.

69. When selling the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of the relevant category, the seller shall comply with the requirements referred to in Paragraph s 49 and 50 of this Regulation.

70. Following the end of the working hours of the permanent location of sale the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be brought to the warehouse or shop of the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles indicated in the special authorisation (licence), or places in a metal cabinet (box) in the permitted location of the seasonal sale.

3. Manufacture of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles

71. A merchant who has received a special authorisation (licence) for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be manufactured, stored and sold at especially arranged premises the address of which is indicated in the special authorisation (licence).

72. A merchant shall manufacture the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of such category which is indicated in the special authorisation (licence).

73. The premises for manufacture and storage of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be arranged taking into account the requirements that are laid down in the laws and regulations regarding risk assessment procedures and risk reduction measures for industrial accidents.

74. The premises for manufacture of the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall comply with the following fire safety requirements and conditions:

74.1. premises for manufacture shall be arranged in the building which is the structure of fireproofness level U2;

74.2. the minimum reaction to fire class of construction of the premises for manufacture is A2-s1,d0;

74.3. premises for manufacture are separated from other premises in a fireproof manner in conformity with the requirements to be applied for the fireproofness level U1;

74.4. the floor covering in the premises for manufacture is resistant to sparks;

74.5. the premises for manufacture have a protection against lightning, as well as appropriate electrical devices which are installed in the premises with explosive environment;

74.6. the walls and ceilings in the premises for manufacture are made of materials which ensure the possibility to carry out wet cleaning;

74.7. in the premises for manufacture, where formation of explosive environment is likely, must be easily detachable constructions with an area of 0.05 square metres per cubic metre of the scope of the room. The doors shall open outwards.

74.8. the premises for manufacture is equipped with fire detection and alarm system and security alarm system, and they are connected to the central security control panel.

75. When a local suction ventilation system is functioning, explosive air mixtures shall not form in the premises for manufacture exceeding 5% of the amount (volume) of the air in the room. Local suction air ducts shall be cleaned from combustible deposits in accordance with the time schedule that is approved by the manager of the merchant or a responsible person determined by him or her.

76. Water steam, oil or air heating shall be used for the heating of the production room. Used hot surfaces shall be easily cleaned, external surface temperature shall not exceed 60 °C. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and raw materials necessary for the manufacture thereof shall be placed not less than 0.5 metres from heating appliances.

77. Regardless of the area in the room for manufacture there shall be at least two portable fire extinguishers the minimum capacity of which is six kilograms, and one portable fire extinguisher the minimum capacity of which is 20 kg.

78. For the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles a merchant shall arrange separate rooms for granulation, weighing, stirring, sifting, pressing and for performance of other manufacturing processes. If fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles are manufactured in one room, each stage of manufacturing process shall be carried out separately and the next one shall be started only after cleaning of the room.

79. It is prohibited to use open flame in the room for manufacture, as well as to use devices, tools, instruments and other items the use of which may cause sparks.

80. A merchant shall carry out technological operations for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles (for example, granulation, dosing of components, stirring and pressing) in the premises specially arranges and intended therefore.

81. When stirring the components of pyrotechnic article, the gradualness of adding of components, their proportions expressed in percentage and amount of composition indicated in the technological card shall be observed.

82. Operation of devices (fore example, mixers, granulation mills, presses, cutting machines) shall be calculated (organised) so as hazardous friction or shock load do not form during the exploitation process thereof.

83. Mixers, presses, roll-forging machines and other devices, as well as instruments to be used which are located in explosive premises intended for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be ensured against forming of sparks.

84. Raw materials of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be used only for the intended purpose.

85. In the premises for manufacture safety signs shall be placed in conformity with the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding use of safety sign at workplaces.

86. Chemical raw materials that are used for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall conform to the requirements of technological and normative technical documents.

87. Only such chemical substances shall be used for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles for this safety data are available where impurities present in the substances, degree of danger, maximum permissible concentration in the air, fire hazards and measures to be taken in case of accident are indicated.

88. Safety data of chemical substances to be used during the manufacture process of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be compiled on safety data sheets. Safety data sheets shall be drawn up and used in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC.

89. When using toxic, flammable and explosive materials, employees shall use protective equipment.

90. Workplaces of the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be arranged in conformity with the requirements of the laws and regulations that lay down the procedures for the organisation of labour protection system, labour environment risk assessment and performance of labour environment internal supervision, as well as labour protection requirements when working in the explosive environment.

91. During the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles there shall be only those items at the workplaces that are necessary for the making of the relevant article and ensuring of the manufacturing process.

92. Equipment that is necessary for the performance of works shall be places in comfortable and easy accessible places in order to prevent the possibility of accidental move and falling of such items.

93. Construction works and repair works in the premises for the manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, when using open flame, shall be carried out only after wet treatment of the walls, floor and ceiling.

94. Accumulation of propellant of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles and ready articles in the amount exceeding the norms laid down in the technological description and normative technical documentation shall not be permitted.

95. When organising the work, systematic ventilation of premises shall be organised in the premises for manufacture (production) or the work shall be carried out in traction cabins. The concentration of toxic substances shall not exceed the laid down norms.

96. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, semi-finished products thereof and raw materials shall be stored in warehouses. It is not allowed to store pyrotechnic articles and semi-finished products in one warehouse with chemical raw materials.

97. A warehouse of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall conform to the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or 30 and 31 of this Regulation.

98. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in a warehouse in accordance with the procedures laid down in Paragraphs 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 32 accordingly of this Regulation.

99. Chemical raw materials intended for the making of fireworks shall be places in the warehouse and stored in non-damaged packaging or packing on which a precise name and quantity of the substance are indicated. Labels shall be drawn up in conformity with the laws and regulations regarding classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances and chemical products.

100. A merchant shall store the substances of different categories (for example, oxides and combustible substances) and mutually reacting substances (for example, potassium chlorate and ammonium nitrate).

101. Whew necessary, a merchant shall ensure a day-and-night physical guarding and firemen duty for the premises for manufacture and warehouse.

102. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles are allowed to be manufactured (produced) and stored by persons who have reached the age of 20 years and who has at least a secondary education and whose level of education conforms to the requirements that are laid down in the laws and regulations regarding level of education of persons performing commercial activity with chemical substances and chemical products. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles are allowed to be manufactured (produced) and stored by persons regarding whom a merchant has obtained an opinion of the structural unit of the State Police, that they are not subject to the restrictions laid down in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles.

103. Once in two years a merchant shall organise an examination of knowledge of the security regulations.

104. Employees who participates in the manufacture (production) processes of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles or propellants thereof, shall have a good knowledge of:

104.1. the device to be services, construction and meaning of fences and protective (security) means;

104.2. types and methods for safe performance of operations;

104.3. fire safety requirements;

104.4. features of chemical substances to be used in propellants.

105. Executive body of a merchant shall control, how the employees comply with the regulations for circulation of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles. A merchant shall be responsible for the infringements of the employee in the commercial activities.

106. The manager of the warehouse, who accepts and passes out raw materials, as well as fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, shall be specially trained, have a good knowledge of features of the relevant pyrotechnic article and raw materials thereof, procedures for records and regulations for the circulation, as well as the relevant safety measures.

107. A merchant shall ensure conditions safe for the health of employees who are carrying out the works with propellants and other raw materials of pyrotechnic articles, chemical substances and semi-finished products that may harmfully affect health, and, where appropriate, pass out the appropriate protective means to the employees.

108. The use of protective means shall ensure:

108.1. discharge of dangerous substances and materials from work zone;

108.2. protection of the employees against impact of dangerous and harmful manufacture factors;

108.3. protection of the employees against impact of dangerous and harmful manufacture factors, if infringement of technological process has occurred.

109. The employees shall be protected against dangerous and harmful factors shall be protected by:

109.1. individual airway protection means (for example, masks, respirators) and rubber gloves (in the granulations or mixing process of chemical substances);

109.2. individual protective means for hearing and visual organs.

110. A manufacturer shall sell manufactured fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in conformity with the restrictions and procedures for sale referred to in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles and Paragraphs 28, 29 and 33 of this Regulation.

4. Transportation and Carrying of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles

111. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as propellants thereof shall be transported by railway and water transport in conformity with the laws and regulations regarding the requirements for safety of railway and water transport traffic and procedures for the transportation.

112. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as propellants thereof, shall be transported by road transport in conformity with the laws and regulations laying down the procedures for road transport of dangerous goods.

113. When transporting fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, they are not allowed to join in electric circuit.

114. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be transported in their original packaging or additional packaging.

115. When transporting fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as propellants thereof, a merchant shall draw up a document of mandatory accountancy - way-bill. In addition to the details laid down in the laws and regulations regarding the procedures for use and drawing up of a way-bill the weight of the propellant mass of pyrotechnic articles present in the cargo shall also be indicated in the way-bill.

116. It is prohibited to transport category 4 fireworks and category T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles in public transport.

117. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as propellants thereof shall be transported and carried so as they do not get into hands of other persons, are not deformed and subject to exposure of high temperature, that may cause ignition.

5. Provision of Pyrotechnic Services

118. Pyrotechnic services shall be provided by merchants who have received a special authorisation (licence) for the provision of pyrotechnic services. Category 4 fireworks and category T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be used by persons with special knowledge indicated in a special authorisation (licence) who have received a certificate of a pyrotechnician (hereinafter - pyrotechnician).

119. When providing pyrotechnic services, a merchant shall take into account that the works with pyrotechnic devices and theatrical pyrotechnic articles are explosive and fire hazardous.

120. A merchant shall assign a person responsible for safety prior to the provision of pyrotechnic services.

121. A merchant shall provide pyrotechnic services in accordance with a contract entered into with a commissioning party.

122. The time, place of demonstration of fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles, amount of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles used, the size of danger zone and safety conditions shall be indicated in the contract on the provision of pyrotechnic services.

123. A plan and programme for the demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be drawn up for the provision of pyrotechnic services.

124. A merchant, who provides pyrotechnic services, shall examine the intended place for the demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, determine the places where vehicles and audience may be located and where fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles will be placed, as well as shall carry out other measures related to safety requirements.

125. Safe distance from the place of demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles up to audience, buildings and other objects shall be calculated taking into account articles' category, type, calibre and other technical specifications. Danger zone shall be confined.

126. Directions for demonstration preparation works of pyrotechnic articles and amount of works, location of fireworks and pyrotechnic articles, plan of land parcel, on which a danger zone is indicated, danger zone of fireworks, location of security guards, as well as rescue and evacuation roads shall be indicated in the plan for demonstration of fireworks or pyrotechnic articles.

127. The start and end time of demonstration of pyrotechnic articles shall be indicated in the programme for demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as information regarding fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles to be used, the planned effects, the sequence and frequency of launching of pyrotechnic articles, as well as the size of the danger zone shall be provided.

128. The plan and programme for demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be approved by a person responsible for safety.

129. After approval the plan and programme for demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be co-ordinated with the local government, as well as a copy of the plan and programme shall be submitted to a structural unit of the State Fire-fighting and Rescue Service. When organising the demonstration of pyrotechnic articles at the State frontier area, the plan and programme shall be co-ordinated additionally with the State Border Guard, in the air corridors - with a flight direction centre. When organising the demonstration of pyrotechnic articles closer than 300 metres from the objects of cultural and historical significance, the monuments of history and culture, cemeteries, worship buildings, reserves and national parks, plans and programmes shall be co-ordinated additionally with the Regional Environmental Administration or Marine and Inland Waters Administration of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development.

130. The following shall be indicated in a submission for the obtaining of co-ordination for demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles:

130.1. a merchant's name and registration number, the given name and surname of the head of the merchant, the given name and surname of the person responsible for the safety, the given name, surname and certificate number of the pyrotechnician;

130.2. the place, date, the start and end time, borders (size) of a danger zone of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles;

130.3. the commissioning party's - natural person's:

130.3.1. the given name, surname and the personal identity number;

130.3.2. the desirable type of communication (specify at least one):

130.3.2.1. the address of the declared place of residence;

130.3.2.2. the address of the place of residence;

130.3.2.3. telephone number;

130.3.2.4. electronic mail address;

130.4. the commissioning party's - legal person's:

130.4.1. name and uniform registration number;

130.4.2. the desirable type of communication (specify at least one):

130.4.2.1. legal address;

130.4.2.2. actual address;

130.4.2.3. telephone number;

130.4.2.4. electronic mail address.

131. A merchant shall demonstrate fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in accordance with the plan and programme for an event. Provision of pyrotechnic services is prohibited, if a co-ordination of the local government is not obtained or the State Fire-fighting and Rescue Service objects to it.

132. The commissioning party shall not change the approved plan and programme for the demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, if it is not possible to inform a merchant regarding the changes and to obtain approval thereof before the co-ordination referred to in Paragraph 129 of this Regulation.

133. The commissioning party and merchant shall ensure the safety of the audience, by involving security guard employees or, where necessary, by confining the place of demonstration of pyrotechnic effect and danger zone with barriers. When determining a danger zone, the maximum permissible sound pressure level determined for fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be taken into account.

134. A merchant shall start the demonstration of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles after a person responsible of the safety has ascertained regarding the safety of the situation. If unfavourable conditions have been caused that may significantly affect the safety (for example, uncontrollable behaviour of the audience or weather conditions), a person responsible for the safety shall discontinue the demonstration of pyrotechnic articles.

135. A person and staff responsible for the safety shall have a distinguishing sign which is visible during day and night.

136. A person responsible for the safety shall assess any possibility of dangerous behaviour or unsafe conditions that he or she observes or regarding which he or she is informed, and shall take safety measures according to the situation.

137. Fire extinguishing means shall be present at the place of provision of pyrotechnic services.

138. Devices used for the provision of pyrotechnic services shall conform to the requirements for use and safety. If any doubts regarding the quality of fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles arise, the relevant pyrotechnic article shall not be used.

139. The amount of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles necessary for the implementation of the programme and performance of pyrotechnic works shall be delivered to the place of provision of pyrotechnic services and performance of pyrotechnic works.

140. It is prohibited to smoke and use open flame at the place of performance of pyrotechnic works and within the radius of 20 metres.

141. A merchant shall ensure the supervision of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles during the provision and preparation of pyrotechnic services. Pyrotechnic articles shall be stored in a closed vehicle in conformity with the laws and regulations governing the road transport of dangerous goods. If possible, a burner shall be stored separately from the firework and theatrical pyrotechnic article.

142. After the preparation works for the demonstration of pyrotechnic articles are finished, a person responsible for the safety shall ascertain that unauthorised persons are not present in a danger zone and shall start the demonstration of fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles in a confined territory.

143. During the firework, as well as after finishing the demonstration of a pyrotechnic effect, t unauthorised persons may not be present in a danger zone and at the place of launching of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles while it is not examined, whether all shells have worked.

144. When preparing fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles for the demonstration, one person may carry pyrotechnic articles which are not heavier than 25 kg. Throwing, rolling or traction of pyrotechnic articles on ground is prohibited. When the necessary pyrotechnic article is taken out from the industrial packaging the remaining articles shall be accurately covered and the box closed.

145. Electric burners shall be stored in the industrial packaging or in a box closed with a lid until their use. Opened electric burners shall be stored at least in the distance of one metre from the fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles. The electric burners shall not be connected to the electric current until the end of joining thereof.

146. Electric burners of identical group of the same factory shall be used in one ignition row. Electrical burners shall be attached to the network by one or in group. Connections and wires of electric burners shall be isolated.

147. After ignition, as well as if pyrotechnic articles have not ignited in the entire length or in all parts, the main wire shall be disconnected from the ignition devices and batteries.

148. An ignition device shall be used for ignition of several igniter cords manually. If some cord has not ignited, it shall not be ignited anew and non-exploded pyrotechnic projectile shall be left in the launching mortar (barrel).

149. If a pyrotechnician is not ascertained that fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles have fully worked, he or she shall approach to the place of use of pyrotechnic articles not earlier than after 20 minutes.

150. A pyrotechnician shall examine after the completion of work, whether non-exploded or non-burned fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles and burning or smouldering deposits thereof. If there are any, they shall be destroyed.

151. Not earlier than on hour after the use of category 4 fireworks or category T2 theatrical pyrotechnic articles a person responsible for the safety shall examine the place of demonstration of pyrotechnic articles and adjacent territory thereof, forest and neighbouring buildings and structure, and shall liquidate or neutralise the non-worked, burning or smouldering pyrotechnic articles found and parts thereof.

152. If after the use of fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles, there are non-exploded or non-burned pyrotechnic articles, they shall be destroyed.

153. Category T1 and T2Theatrical pyrotechnic articles, as well as category 1 fireworks shall be used for provision of pyrotechnic services and performance of pyrotechnic works in premises.

154. Theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be used in the premises which do not enlarge the intensity of noise caused, reflected and reverberated by the theatrical pyrotechnic article.

155. Theatrical pyrotechnic articles and category 1 fireworks may be used in premises if they conform to the following requirements:

155.1. do not cause noxious or pungent gases;

155.2. a cardboard casing of a pyrotechnic article does not ignite during burning;

155.3. do not cause substances that distribute soot;

155.4. do not cause sharp remains in the case of unexpected explosion;

155.5. do not cause noise that would exceed the permissible values of noise laid down in the laws and regulations.

156. Prior to provision of pyrotechnic services the following safety measure shall be carried out in the premises:

156.1. an organiser of the measure shall assign a responsible person who ensures:

156.1.1. movement of highly flammable materials in the distance of at least dive metres from a stage or the place of use of pyrotechnic articles and fireworks, as well as covering of articles, protecting against ignition;

156.1.2. where necessary, sprinkling the firework places with water;

156.1.3. at least two AB category fire extinguishers of six kilograms;

156.2. if a room is equipped with a fixed fire-extinguishing system, it shall be ensured that it is not operated during the use of theatrical pyrotechnic articles and fireworks; and

156.3. in a room where theatrical pyrotechnic articles and category 1 fireworks are used, a ventilation system shall be ensured which absorbs the gases and smoke formed during the combustion process thereof and prevents their entering into the part of the room where the audience is located.

157. A merchant shall acquire and store fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles intended for the provision of pyrotechnic articles in accordance with the procedures laid down in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles.

6. Organisation of Commercial Exhibitions of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles, as well as Demonstration (Use) of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles

158. Commercial exhibitions of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be organised by merchants who have obtained a special authorisation for sale, manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles or provision of pyrotechnic services.

159. If it is intended to demonstrate (use) fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in a commercial exhibition, a merchant shall draw up a plan for safety measures which shall be co-ordinated in accordance with the procedures laid down in Paragraph 129 of this Regulation.

160. When demonstrating (using) fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles in commercial exhibitions, a merchant shall comply with the prohibitions and restrictions of use laid down in the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles, as well as the safety requirements laid down in the instructions for use of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

161. When demonstrating (using) fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, a merchant shall comply with the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 119, 120, 124, 125, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154. and 155 of this Regulation.

7. Procedures for the Acquisition, Carrying, Transportation and Storage of Fireworks and Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles

162. Fireworks (except for category 1 fireworks) and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be acquired by natural and legal persons only at licensed locations of sale from merchants who have obtained a special authorisation (licence) of the State Police for the sale or manufacture of fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles.

163. When acquiring fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, a buyer, upon request of the seller, shall present documents attesting the right of the buyer to acquire fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles of certain type and category in accordance with the Law on Circulation of Pyrotechnic Articles.

164. When acquiring fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, a natural person, upon request of a shop-assistant, shall present a personal identification document. A duty of the buyer is to identify his or her person and age, by presenting a personal identification document also upon request of an official of the control or supervision institution.

165. The acquired fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be carried in a bag or other packaging. At one time fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be acquired only in such amount in order for the packaging can be carried by hand.

166. When carrying and transporting fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, they are not allowed to be connected in electrical circuit.

167. Fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles shall be carried and transported so as they would not get at the disposal of other persons, cannot drop, would not be deformed or otherwise damaged, are not subject to exposure of high temperature or cannot ignite due to other reasons or be maliciously ignited.

168. Natural and legal persons shall store fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, by complying with the fire safety requirements and so as they would not get at the disposal of unauthorised persons.

169. If the total propellant mass of fireworks or theatrical pyrotechnic articles is more than 80 kg, a natural persona and legal person shall ensure the storage of pyrotechnic articles in a lockable metal cabinet (box) the thickness of wall of which is not less than 2 mm and fireproofness is more than 30 minutes, or in the premises which conform to the requirements of this Regulation that are laid down in respect of warehouses or storage facilities of shop, complying with the procedure for storage laid down for them.

Prime Minister V. Dombrovskis

Minister for the Interior L. Mūrniece

 

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Translation © 2014 Valsts valodas centrs (State Language Centre)