Fireworks and Pyrotechnics

The IOA have responded to a consultation from the Office of Product Safety Standards, which considers reducing the noise level of fireworks on sale to the public, and whether any further pyrotechnic items should be banned. The consultation proposes reforms to fireworks legislation, focusing on harms associated with their misuse – noise, and contribution to antisocial behaviour – whilst still allowing individuals to enjoy fireworks safely and responsibly for the important community and cultural celebrations they play a part of. We found there is not enough evidence to say, with confidence, what exact A-weighted, impulse-weighted (LAImax) sound pressure level would be required to improve significantly the wellbeing of humans or animals. However, there is reason to believe that the 120 dB(A,imp) (120 dB, LAImax) level measured at the safety distance should be reduced to protect the hearing of children. The negative effects of fireworks noise on animals are well documented, and wild birds have been reported to take off en masse and change roosting habits after experiencing fireworks noise. However, it is also recognised that if the sound level from any form of entertainment is too quiet, there is reduced audience satisfaction. Unless advertised as such, a silent firework display will not be enjoyed. Although reducing the maximum sound level of fireworks to be in line with the WHO recommendations would be a good step towards preventing hearing loss from noise exposure, it is not known whether this level would be enough to decrease other negative effects of fireworks noise on humans and animals, such as stress and fear. 

In addition, we added that the impact of firework noise on humans and animals, like stress and fear, are dependent on the context and behaviour of those igniting them. For example, anticipated celebrations like Nov 5th, Halloween, Diwali, New Year might have less impact on people than fireworks used at unexpected times. Whilst pet and livestock owners can take precautionary measures for those events, wildlife will not be prepared for these events, and unanticipated firework noise can be disruptive to all. 

Full response