Devon County Council Trading Standards service recently inspected 49 businesses and shops across Devon and Somerset to ensure they were following firework safety regulations – and we found that most are following the rules.
Devon County Council Trading Standards service recently inspected 49 businesses and shops across Devon and Somerset to ensure they were following firework safety regulations – and we found that most are following the rules.
However nine out of the 49 businesses were found not be compliant with legal regulatory requirements.
It follows recent inspections by Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service across the two counties to ensure the compliance of local businesses with legal standards for the storage and sale of fireworks.
Officers inspected businesses in Hemyock, Uffculme, Dartmouth, Broadwoodkelly, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Exeter, Bideford, Wembury, Cullompton, Tavistock, Totnes, Tiverton, Stoke Canon, Crediton and Newton Abbot in Devon as well as Yeovil, Bridgwater, Wells and Glastonbury in Somerset.
Of the nine businesses that did not pass the inspection varying levels of non-compliance were found ranging from minor to significant concerns.
Two of the businesses required immediate attention due to their location near other buildings and residential areas.
Both of these were inspected in partnership with the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to address any potential fire hazards and ensure community safety.
Councillor Rufus Gilbert, our Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and skills, said:
“The period prior to Bonfire Night through to the New Year inevitably is when most fireworks are purchased and our priority is to minimise any risks by working with partners, such as Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, and to support businesses to ensure that fireworks are stored and sold safely.”
Fakir Mohamed Osman, Head of our Trading Standards Service, said:
“Improper storage of fireworks can lead to severe risks, not only for business owners but also for the public. We are dedicated to working alongside businesses to resolve any issues and foster a culture of safety and compliance.”
For further information on firework safety and compliance, or to access resources offered by Trading Standards Service, visit our website: https://www.devonsomersettradingstandards.gov.uk/business/
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