EU Directive for Pyrotechnics
The Pyrotechnic Articles Directive 2013/29/EU replaces the previous Directive 2007/23/EC and aims to ensure uniform rules for pyrotechnic articles on the EU market. It establishes protection standards for human health, the environment and public safety in order to ensure the free trade of these items in the internal market. Pyrotechnic objects are defined as objects that contain explosive substances and can produce heat, light, sound, gas or smoke through chemical reactions. There are various types of such objects, including fireworks for entertainment purposes, pyrotechnic elements for stages and theaters, as well as those for vehicles used as components of safety devices. The Directive is intended to ensure the safety and standardized use of these items in various areas of application.
Q&A
What is the Pyrotechnic Articles Directive?
The original Pyrotechnical Articles Directive 2007/23/EC was replaced in June 2013 by Directive 2013/29/EU on the harmonization of Member States' legislation on the placing of pyrotechnical articles on the market.
What is the aim of the Pyrotechnics Directive?
The Directive lays down rules ensuring a high level of protection for human health, the environment and public safety. These safety requirements ensure the free movement of pyrotechnic articles in the internal market.
What is a pyrotechnic object?
A pyrotechnic article is any article containing explosive substances or mixtures of substances with which heat is generated due to independent chemical reactions occurring under the release of heat Light, sound, gas or smoke or a combination of these effects shall be produced.
What types of pyrotechnic objects are there?
- Fireworks: Pyrotechnic objects for entertainment purposes.
Which pyrotechnic articles are not covered by Directive 2013/29/EU?
- Pyrotechnic articles intended for non-commercial use by the armed forces, the police or the fire brigade in accordance with national law
What categories are provided for in the Pyrotechnics Directive?
Pyrotechnic articles shall be categorized by the manufacturer according to their type of use or purpose and the degree of hazard, including their noise level.
Categorization for fireworks:
- Category F1: Fireworks that present a very low risk, have a negligible noise level and are intended to be used in closed areas, including fireworks intended for use within residential buildings.
Categorization for theatrical pyrotechnic objects:
- Category T1: Pyrotechnic articles for use on stages that pose a low risk.
Categorization for other pyrotechnic articles:
- Category P1: Pyrotechnic objects other than fireworks and pyrotechnic objects for stage and theatre, which pose a low risk.
What is the conformity assessment procedure under the Pyrotechnics Directive?
To assess the conformity of pyrotechnic articles, the manufacturer must use one of the following procedures:
What are the main steps to obtain the CE marking?
- Contact the notified body of your choice and submit your application with the necessary technical documentation to assess the essential safety requirements.
What are the basic security requirements (ESR)?
All essential safety requirements can be found in Annex I to Directive 2013/29/EU, and some of the most important are: