Commission seeks views on EU rules for pyrotechnics and civilian use explosives

The Commission is launching a public consultation on the functioning of EU rules on pyrotechnics and explosives for civilian purposes. The consultation is targeted at interested parties, and the rules concern for instance fireworks, airbags, fire extinguishers and explosives used in mining and construction. 

This consultation follows the calls for evidence on civil explosives and pyrotechnics, published in May 2023. These calls sought to collect initial feedback on whether the Directives on explosives for civilian uses and on pyrotechnic articles were still fit for purpose. The consultation seeks more detailed feedback on whether the current rules continue to meet their goals. The goals relate to safety, security and environmental protection, and a smooth functioning of the single market. 

A special focus will lie on health and safety aspects as well as environmental concerns. In addition, the consultation will gather views as to the extent to which current rules and their enforcement prevent criminals from having access to these products or their misuse. It will also look at the potential for digitisation and for reducing administrative burdens.  

The consultation will be open until 1 July 2024 and is available on the Have Your Say portal.