Chapter 4:   Operation of the Display

4.1   Non-compliance and Negligence

Where there is evidence of non-compliance with the principles set out in this manual, the Explosives Regulatory Division (ERD) may:

  -   Suspend or cancel a Fireworks Operator's certificate.
  -  Prosecute under the Explosives Act.

Where there is evidence of gross misconduct or negligence, the Fireworks Operator may be charged under the Criminal Code.

Note:  If your certificate is suspended or cancelled by an Explosives Inspector, you have the right to appeal the decision.  Appeals should be directed to the Chief Inspector of Explosives within 15 days of the decision in question.

4.2   False or Misleading Information

Anyone who submits false or misleading information in support of an application or letter of reference can be prosecuted.  Certification may also be refused, suspended or revoked.

4.3   Fire Hazards: Smoking, Matches, & Spark-Producing Devices

Smoking is not permitted within the danger zone (30 m around the firing site).  Matches or spark-producing devices are not allowed on the firing location.

4.4   Alcohol and Drugs

No one is allowed on the display site while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or any medication that could affect judgement, mobility, or presence of mind.

Chapter 4:   Operation of the Display

4.5   Authorized People on the Display Site

From the time the fireworks are removed from the transport vehicle until the show is completely set up, the only people allowed on the display site are:

  -  The Supervisor in Charge and certified crew.
  -  The local AHJ.
  -  Explosives Regulatory Division personnel.
  -  Security monitors.
  -  Sponsors and media, if escorted by a Display Supervisor (maximum three persons at anyone time).

The only persons allowed on a display site during the show are the Supervisor in Charge and the certified crew.  The ERD personnle and AHJs that need to go on the display site must report to the Supervisor in Charge prior to entry onto the site.  ERD approved exceptions are allowed.

4.6   Maintaining the Perimeter of the Danger Zone

From the time of the arrival of the display fireworks until after the clean-up, you must control access to the danger zone.  Maintain crowd control by all available means (e.g. security personnel, signs, barricades, natural boundaries, roads and fences).  The minimum distance from the fireworks articles to the public must be 30 m.  This danger zone must be in effect until the display begins in a manually fired display or prior to the testing of the firing system in an electrically fired display at which time the full perimeter of the display site must be established.

4.7  Fire and First-Aid Protection

The Supervisor in Charge will make arrangements for fire and first aid for the protection of both the audience and crew.  Any fire and first aid personnel and their vehicles should normally remain outside the danger zone during the firing of the display.

Chapter 4:   Operation of the Display

4.1   Fireworks Sorting and Inspection

The Supervisor in Charge must conduct an inspection of the product received.  While inspecting, the Supervisor in Charge must:

  -   Remove each article from its packaging.
  -  Check fuses to make sure that safety caps are in place.
  -  Check each article for damage to the fuse, casing, etc.
  -  Inspect the bottom of the shipping box for signs of loose black powder.   Set aside any shells or articles that appear to be cracked or broken.
  -  Check fireworks and shipping cartons for water stains or other signs of wetness.  If such signs are found, do not use the affected fireworks in the display.
  -  Damaged fireworks should be returned to the vendor.
  -  Make minor repairs if necessary (replacement of safety cap, taping fusing / quickmatch).

4.9   Manufacturer's Instructions

Always set fireworks off according to the manufacturer's instructions.  These instructions are normally supplied on the fireworks labels and instruction leaflets enclosed in the shipping cartons.  Remember that last-minute reading can lead to misunderstandings.  Give yourself plenty of time to read and understand the instructions.

4.10   Wind Speed

The maximum surface wind speed for discharging fireworks is not to exceed 40 km/hour.

4.11   Inspection of Mortars

Prior to set up, inspect all mortars for defects (dents, bends, irregular interiors, loose or cracked plugs, cracks, bulges).  Never use defective mortars.  Clean interior of mortars annually with soap and hot water to remove accumulated soot that can make loading of the shells difficult.