Fireworks on sale for limited period from Friday

25 October 2006

Fireworks go on public sale on Friday, and the Department of Labour is encouraging retailers to show responsibility over safety when selling fireworks.

Fireworks are subject to strict rules: they can only be sold between 27 October and 5 November and only to people over the age of 14.

The Department enforces hazardous substances legislation, and health and safety inspectors are visiting retailers in the lead up to Guy Fawkes to check the storage, display and sale of fireworks, as well as responding to any complaints by members of the public.

Acting chief advisor for safe and healthy workplaces Bob Hill said many retailers still weren’t getting the message about responsible sales of fireworks.

“These sales restrictions have been in place for many years now, and retailers have had plenty of time to adapt to them. They are there for the safety of both retail staff and the public. The Department can, and will, take further action if retailers breach the regulations.”

Mr Hill said retailers caught flouting the restrictions may be liable to a fine up to $500,000 and spend up to three months in jail.

The Department has prosecuted retailers in the past for selling fireworks to people under 14, selling fireworks in unsuitable packaging, and for selling fireworks outside the restricted sales period.

Complaints about sales or retail storage of fireworks should be directed to the Department of Labour on 0800 20 90 20.

More information on the safe use of fireworks is available at http://www.guyfawkes2006.govt.nz

To the journalist: please note that health and safety services formerly referred to as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) should now be referred to as the Department of Labour.