Pyros...

[MatSpencer]

Hey,

 

If you are over 18, do you need a license to operate/own pyrotechnic equipment?

 

And before you all start moaning and groaning about the fact that I am a student under 18. I'm finding out for my dad!!

 

Cheers

[Nicktaylor]

No you dont. But there are rules about their use, and you will need to apply to the local authority to use them.

Worth going and working with a show using them, to see the practical and safety implications

[Stegga]

it also depends on the place you are going to use them, for example a school wont let anyone who is not trained, citified and all the other things things they insist on, use them because of the risk, however its OK to use them in your back garden! some pyrotechnics however do require a licence to buy them such as sky highs 'professional' range "These effects are for professional use only. A copy of your explosives license is required along with valid identification." - quote Sky High FX

[slipstream]

You do not require any paperwork to buy for instance Le Maitre's firing system or the consumables for it - things like flash pots etc - your venue will want to see risk assessment and you should have insurance to protect yourself even if they do not ask - local am dram's club insurance may cover it - ask - if you are helping them. If you get paid then it's all different.

 

Sam

[Ike]

some pyrotechnics however do require a licence to buy them such as sky highs 'professional' range "These effects are for professional use only. A copy of your explosives license is required along with valid identification." - quote Sky High FX

To be fair these are not stage effects but are instead intended for battlefield simulations, even the largest arena effects manufactured by Sky High do not require an explosives licence unless you want to store loads of the things.

[Stegga]

yes. sorry I was just making the point that while you dont need a lisence for most effects you will need one for some

[Roderick]

Just a word of warning for those outside the UK, regulations differ greatly in other countries, please check with your local authorities!

In Australia for instance, you can't even buy LeMaitre 'Theatrical' effects without an appropriate license, let alone transport, store or fire them. To complicate things further, every state has different licenses which makes touring shows complex. In NSW licenses are issued by WorkCover but in Queensland you'd have to see the Department of Mining.

[dbuckley]

Yep, New Zealand is also draconian about these things. You have to be an "aproved handler", which for indoor theatrical pyros is a two day course, about $1250 NZD. Corse details here.