Cyprus is finalising legislation to tighten controls on fireworks use following the Crans-Montana nightclub fire in Switzerland, which killed and seriously injured dozens after sparklers were used on a champagne bottle indoors.
The Explosives (Amendment) Law, now in its final stages at the parliamentary Environment Committee, will impose fines up to €50,000 and expand criminal liability for illegal fireworks at events including weddings and baptisms.
Stelios Michail, director of the Mines and Quarries Service and head of the Explosives Branch, told Phileleftheros that whilst low-risk fireworks are available for indoor use, strict adherence to manufacturer instructions is essential.
“It is extremely important that those who provide fireworks at entertainment centres emphasise they must be in a fixed position and away from flammable materials, and that instructions according to the manufacturer and CE marking are strictly followed,” Michail said.
Asked whether Cyprus should ban sparklers in enclosed spaces, he said “the easiest thing is to say they are banned,” but added this was not permitted under EU fireworks categorisation rules.
“Therefore we are not allowed to proceed with a ban, but to demand faithful adherence to the conditions,” he said.
Michail stressed the need for expert reports on the Le Constellation club fire in Crans-Montana to draw safe conclusions and provide clear guidance.
Every legal firework product carries mandatory CE marking guaranteeing it meets European safety specifications, he said, adding that this makes reading manufacturer instructions even more crucial.
The Service is coordinating with competent authorities to provide guidance to entertainment venues on correct fireworks use, he said.
The new law follows consultations between the Agriculture Ministry and Justice Ministry, attended by the Police Chief and Mines Service Director. The issue of police assuming Explosives Inspector responsibilities has been discussed over the past 10 years, with the role now going to the Police pyrotechnics branch.
The bill separates responsibilities between police and the Mines Service. The Mines Director will retain authority for licences and inspections of explosive warehouses used for demolition, whilst the Police Chief will oversee fireworks warehouse inspections and tackle illegal import, transport, storage, sale and use of explosives.
Police can report illegal fireworks based on their own observations or independent testimony. If fireworks are set off outside the event venue, there is reasonable suspicion the owner, manager or organiser is involved.
