I am writing this article with the love for fireworks in mind but also with concern for the safety of fire-workers and the public in general, including the surrounding buildings – factories and private houses.

Maltese fireworks are actually quite unique. Many foreigners, both fireworks manufacturers and enthusiasts alike from all over the world consider Malta as the land for fireworks. Keeping this accomplishment and pride we have for our unique tradition in mind, I must ask both the general public but mostly the authorities to listen but most of all to take action in what needs to be done before we hear about another tragedy of a main fireworks factory accident next year.

As regards the laws on fireworks and their factories, I must point out that the laws should be changed and based on real facts following studies, which must be done soon. There is one law which states that mixing should not be done at night. This law seems inappropriate as mixing should not be done at midday in very high temperatures and should be avoided in the summer months. Mixing machines should be modern, be in the best condition and clean. Mobile mixing machines should be encouraged as they are easy to transport away from the factory to a safe area, which should include adequate shelter for the same machines while mixing. Workers should also avoid getting too close to the mixers while mixing is in progress. These are only little things I am pointing out that could save lives in case of accidents.

One important law that must be enforced is how the factories should be planned and built. According to my own calculations, only a number of factories, which you can count on one hand, are up to date when it comes to appropriate barrier walls between rooms and very importantly the distance between each room, as well as the difference between work shops and stores. From the different factories I personally assisted in, shells are still being kept in work shops because there is not enough room in the stores since the production of fireworks has climbed steadily in the last 15 years. Also there must be correct information on how much fireworks and chemicals can be stored in the factory at the same time.

As for the chemicals, each type has its own different characteristics and some do not mix with others. Some chemicals need to be stored at certain temperatures and others can react to movement. This list can go on and on. My point is that proper training and a knowledge of chemistry should be compulsory before any person obtains any kind of licence to produce fireworks. Correct and detailed studies must also be carried out in order to state which chemicals should be blacklisted. One must also keep in mind that besides chemicals, different materials are used to produce effects and these are usually mixed with chemicals. Some chemicals are not compatible with some materials.

I could go on forever but I must come to the point, that the laws on the manufacture of fireworks and fireworks factories need to be adjusted where appropriate, but most of all they need to be enforced! The laws should state clearly and correctly what type of chemicals and materials can and cannot be used when making fireworks and what temperatures, including humid conditions, would be appropriate for workers. I hope that more people from the general public as well as fireworks enthusiasts voice their messages of concern for safety and enforcement of the law.

J. Falzon