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RP Darmstadt criticizes lack of fire and theft protection
During New Year's Eve inspections in the Darmstadt administrative district, the Darmstadt Regional Council found deficiencies in approximately two-thirds of the inspected sales and storage facilities for fireworks. This was announced by the Darmstadt Regional Council after the inspections were completed.
The occupational safety and health explosives experts inspected nearly 300 businesses. They identified deficiencies, particularly in theft prevention, fire safety, and escape and rescue routes. Fines were issued in some cases.
Common deficiencies in safety and organization
The most frequent complaint from the experts was the lack of or insufficient theft protection. In 94 cases, this was not adequately ensured. Fire extinguishers were missing or not easily accessible in 33 businesses, and escape routes were obstructed in 39 cases. Fines were issued in two of these cases.
Further complaints concerned the lack of training for sales staff in 12 cases and the improper storage of fireworks together with pressurized gas containers such as hairspray or lighter fluid in 13 cases. According to the regional council, most of the identified deficiencies were rectified on site.
Storage and sales rules in focus
A particular focus of the inspections was on the safe storage of pyrotechnic articles and compliance with permissible storage quantities. The experts also checked whether fire extinguishers were present and whether escape routes were adequately sized.
Theft prevention also played a key role. Pyrotechnic articles may only be handed over under the direct supervision of sales staff. Municipal public order offices and the police also conducted checks and forwarded any deficiencies found to the Darmstadt Regional Council.
Legal background
The handling and trade of explosives and pyrotechnic articles is regulated by the Explosives Act and its associated ordinances. This includes, among other things, notification requirements for the sale of New Year's Eve fireworks. In 23 cases, the sale was not reported or not reported in a timely manner, resulting in the initiation of warning and fine proceedings.
The occupational safety departments at the regional government offices are responsible for monitoring compliance with these regulations.
(DARMSTADT – RED/RPDA)
