oSIST prEN 16256:2026

Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles

This document defines various terms relating to the design, construction, primary packaging and testing of theatrical pyrotechnic articles and specifies their generic types.
It defines the procedures for placing generic types, subtypes or individual items of theatrical pyrotechnic articles into the appropriate Categories, T1 or T2 and lists them.
It specifies minimum labelling requirements for the article and primary packaging and for the instructions for use.
Specific test methods for theatrical pyrotechnic articles of the generic types are defined.

Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Bühne und Theater

Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques destinés au théâtre

Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za gledališče

Ta dokument opredeljuje različne izraze, povezane z načrtovanjem, izdelavo, primarno embalažo in preskušanjem gledaliških pirotehničnih izdelkov ter določa njihove splošne tipe.
Opredeljuje postopke za razvrščanje splošnih tipov, podtipov ali posameznih predmetov gledaliških pirotehničnih izdelkov v ustrezne kategorije, T1 ali T2, in jih navaja.
Določa minimalne zahteve za označevanje izdelka in primarne embalaže ter za navodila za uporabo.
Opredeljene so specifične preskusne metode za gledališke pirotehnične izdelke splošnih tipov.

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 02-Sep-2026
• ICS: 71.100.30 - Explosives. Pyrotechnics and fireworks
• ICS: 97.200.10 - Theatre, stage and studio equipment
• Technical Committee: IEKS - Explosives
• Current Stage: 4020 - Public enquire (PE) (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 19-Jun-2026
• Due Date: 06-Nov-2026
• Directive: Harmonized Standard2013/29/EU - Directive 2013/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of pyrotechnic articles (recast)
• Mandate: M/583 - Standardisation request to the European Committee for Standardisation as regards pyrotechnic articles in support of Directive 2013/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council
• Ref Project: prEN 16256 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles

Relations

• Revises: SIST EN 16256-3:2013 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles - Part 3: Requirements for construction and performance
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2026
• Revises: SIST EN 16256-5:2013 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles - Part 5: Test methods
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2026
• Revises: SIST EN 16256-1:2013 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles - Part 1: Terminology
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2026
• Revises: SIST EN 16256-2:2013 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles - Part 2: Categories of theatrical pyrotechnic articles
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2026
• Revises: SIST EN 16256-4:2013 - Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles - Part 4: Minimum labelling requirements and Instructions for use
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2026

Overview

oSIST prEN 16256:2026: Pyrotechnic Articles - Theatrical Pyrotechnic Articles is a draft standard developed by CEN/TC 212, focusing on the terminology, design, construction, testing, and labeling of pyrotechnic articles specifically intended for theatrical use. This standard provides detailed requirements for both manufacturers and users, ensuring the safe and effective use of pyrotechnics in stage, film, television, and other performance environments. It also outlines the classification procedures, minimum labeling, and documentation necessary to comply with European safety regulations.

Key Topics

• Definitions and Terminology: The standard clarifies terms relating to theatrical pyrotechnics, including definitions for critical components such as effect dimensions, detonation, igniters, and fuses, as well as classification-related terminology.
• Generic Types: It describes and categorizes various generic types of theatrical pyrotechnic articles (e.g., comets, mines, Bengal flames, explosion simulators) along with their principal effects.
• Categorization (T1 and T2): The standard details procedures for assigning pyrotechnic items to Category T1 (generally lower-hazard, restricted for general use) or Category T2 (higher-hazard, professional use only), ensuring appropriate controls and user qualifications.
• Design and Construction: Requirements address material selection, construction methods, and inclusion or exclusion of specific substances and explosive types to maximize safety and performance.
• Testing Procedures: Specific type and batch testing protocols are outlined to verify both product design and production consistency. Testing covers aspects such as functioning, sound levels, effect dimensions, debris generation, and minimum safety distances.
• Packaging and Labeling: The standard specifies comprehensive labeling requirements for both the articles themselves and their primary packaging. Labeling must include product type, batch or serial numbers, net explosive content, safety distances, age restrictions, and clear instructions for safe use and disposal.
• Instructions for Use: Mandatory inclusion of clear, concise instructions for operation, safety precautions, and disposal, with explicit indication that articles are for theatrical or professional use only.

Applications

oSIST prEN 16256:2026 is central to the safe handling and deployment of theatrical pyrotechnic articles in numerous professional settings:

• Theatre and Stage Productions: Used to create dramatic effects such as flashes, bangs, colored smoke, or simulated explosions, enhancing stage performances.
• Film and Television: Enables authentic visual and audible effects in controlled environments for cinematic and televised productions, contributing to creative storytelling.
• Studio and Event Productions: Applied in managed studio setups or live events, supporting visual impact while maintaining strict safety standards.
• Pyrotechnic Manufacturing and Supply: Guides manufacturers and suppliers in complying with European requirements, facilitating safe market access and regulatory compliance.

This standard is also critical for authorities and safety assessors involved in the certification, approval, and inspection of pyrotechnic articles for professional entertainment use.

Related Standards

To support compliance and interoperability, oSIST prEN 16256:2026 references and aligns with several related standards:

• EN 16265: Pyrotechnic articles - Ignition devices
• EN 61672-1: Electroacoustics - Sound level meters - Part 1: Specifications
• EN ISO 13385-1: Dimensional measuring equipment - Callipers
• ISO 2859-1: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes
• ISO 22863 Series: Fireworks - Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances
• EN 13763-1: Explosives for civil uses - Detonators and detonating cord relays

These standards collectively ensure that theatrical pyrotechnic articles meet stringent safety, performance, and documentation requirements at every stage – from initial design and manufacturing, through testing and categorization, to end-user handling and disposal.

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Keywords: oSIST prEN 16256:2026, theatrical pyrotechnic articles, stage pyrotechnics, CEN standards, pyrotechnics safety, T1 and T2 pyrotechnic categories, labeling requirements, pyrotechnic testing, EU Directive 2013/29/EU, professional entertainment effects

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-september-2026
Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za gledališče
Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles
Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Bühne und Theater
Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques destinés au théâtre
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 16256
ICS:
71.100.30 Eksplozivi. Pirotehnika in Explosives. Pyrotechnics and
ognjemeti fireworks
97.200.10 Gledališka, odrska in Theatre, stage and studio
studijska oprema ter delovne equipment
postaje
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
June 2026
ICS 71.100.30
English Version
Pyrotechnic articles - Theatrical pyrotechnic articles
Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Pyrotechnische
destinés au théâtre Gegenstände für Bühne und Theater
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 212.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 16256:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 5
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 8
4 Generic types . 13
5 Categories . 16
5.1 General. 16
5.2 Category T1 . 16
5.3 Category T2 . 17
6 Construction . 17
6.1 General requirements (type test and batch test) . 17
6.2 Permitted elements for combinations T1 indoor use (type test) . 18
6.3 Length of uncoated end of Bengal sticks (type test and batch test) . 18
6.4 Materials not permitted for T1 Maroons (type test and batch test) . 18
6.5 Specific requirements for comets and mines . 18
6.6 Use of detonative explosives . 18
6.7 Forbidden substances . 19
6.8 Hand-held fountain without separate handle (type test) . 19
7 Pyrotechnic composition (type test) . 19
8 Means of ignition (type test and batch test) . 22
8.1 General requirements . 22
8.2 Initial fuses and electric igniters . 22
8.3 Friction heads . 22
8.4 Permitted means of ignition for theatrical pyrotechnic articles T1. 22
9 Performance . 24
9.1 Properties to be checked before functioning tests . 24
9.2 Properties to be checked during functioning tests (type test and batch test) . 24
9.3 Integrity to be checked after functioning tests (type test and batch test) . 27
9.4 Minimum safety distances for theatrical pyrotechnic articles T1 (type test). 27
10 Primary pack or selection pack (type test and batch test) . 28
11 Type testing . 28
11.1 General. 28
11.2 Number of items to be tested . 28
11.3 Additional requirements for primary packs . 29
11.4 Test report . 29
12 Batch testing . 30
12.1 General. 30
12.2 Sampling plans . 30
12.3 Unit of product . 30
12.4 Non-conformities . 30
12.5 Test report . 32
12.6 Acceptance or rejection of a batch . 33
13 Minimum labelling requirements. 33
13.1 General . 33
13.2 Name and type of article . 33
13.3 Category, registration number, product, batch or serial number . 34
13.4 Net explosive content . 34
13.5 Printing. 34
13.6 Marking of very small items . 34
13.7 Minimum Age limits and Safety Distances . 34
13.8 Identification number of the notified body . 34
13.9 Instructions for use, safety and disposal information . 35
14 Category T1 Articles . 35
15 Category T2 Articles . 35
16 Test environment . 37
16.1 General . 37
16.2 Indoor . 37
16.3 Outdoor . 37
17 Apparatus . 38
17.1 General . 38
17.2 Timing device . 38
17.3 Calliper . 38
17.4 Ruler . 38
17.5 Measuring tape . 38
17.6 Wind speed meter . 38
17.7 Masses including clamping device . 38
17.8 Balance . 38
17.9 Abrasive sheet. 38
17.10 Temperature chamber . 38
17.11 Clamping device . 38
17.12 Devices for measuring of Effect-, Rising/Bursting-, Drop Height . 39
17.13 Sound level meter . 39
17.14 Shock apparatus . 39
17.15 Goniometer . 39
17.16 Frame . 39
17.17 Ignition source . 39
17.18 Transparent type size sheet . 40
17.19 Striking surface . 40
17.20 Burning time measurement – mould device . 40
18 Test methods . 40
18.1 Construction and stability . 40
18.2 Design – Verification . 42
18.3 Angle of ascent, effect-, rising/bursting-, drop height. 43
18.4 Measurement of sound pressure level . 43
18.5 Timing measurement . 43
18.6 Measuring of labelling . 44
18.7 Extinguishing of flames . 44
18.8 Burning rate of composition . 44
18.9 Projected Debris . 45
18.10 Incandescent matter . 45
18.11 Visual and Audible Inspections . 45
18.12 Mechanical conditioning . 45
18.13 Thermal conditioning . 46
18.14 Striking surface test . 46
18.15 Function test . 46
18.16 Determination of tube angle . 47
18.17 Use of detonative explosives . 48
Annex A (normative) List of mandatory and optional parameters and corresponding codes . 52
Annex B (informative) Mechanical Conditioning (Shock Apparatus) . 54
Annex C (informative) Calculation methods for the angle of ascent, effect-, rising-, drop
height . 57
C.1 Method 1 . 57
C.2 Method 2 . 59
Annex D (informative) Calculation method for minimum safety distance . 61
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
safety requirements of Directive 2013/29/EU aimed to be covered . 62
Bibliography . 64

European foreword
This document (prEN 16256:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 212
“Pyrotechnic articles”, the secretariat of which is held by NEN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 16256-1:2012, EN 16256-2:2012, EN 16256-3:2012,
EN 16256-4:2012 and EN 16256-5:2012.
EN 16256-2:2012, EN 16256-3:2012, EN 16256-4:2012 and EN 16256-5:2012:
— Clause 3 deleted ‘Continuous effect’ and added 3.6 ‘detonation’, 3.7 ‘detonative explosion’ and 3.41-
3.46 ‘effect dimensions’, ‘effect charge’, ‘bursting charge’, ‘propellant charge’, ‘type test’ and ‘batch
test’;
— Clause 3.5 and 3.36 added: Note 1 to entry: Materials such as confetti etc. are not considered as effect;
— Clause 3.37 added: Note 1 to entry: There might be different safety distances for persons who are
protected from the effects by protective equipment and those without protective equipment;
— Clause 4, Table 1 description and effect of ‘comet’ and ‘mine’ are revised;
— Clause 5.2, Table 2 added for comet a note: only when the pyrotechnic unit is preloaded into the firing
tube (see 6.5);
— Clause 6.5 “Specific requirements for comets and mines” has been added;
— Clause 6.6 “Use of detonative explosives” and Clause 6.7 “Forbidden substances” have been revised
and be brought in line with WG 2;
— Clause 8.2 “Initial fuses and electrical igniters” requirement added on conformation to EN 16265
regarding ESD test only;
— Clause 9.2.4 “Effect dimensions”: for batch test a distinction is made between articles of category T1
and articles of category T2;
— Clause 9.2.5 “Sound pressure level” requirement added for articles where the parameter B is given
on the label or in the instructions for use.;
— Clause 9.2.7 “Burning or incandescent matter” added: Additionally, for articles where the parameter
D is given and is not given with a “+” in the labelling, no burning or incandescent matter shall fall to
the ground, see Table A.1.;
— Clause 9.2.9 “Projected debris” requirement added for articles where the parameter C is given on the
label or in the instructions for use;
— Clause 9.4 “Minimum safety distances for theatrical pyrotechnic articles T1 (Type test)” requirement
added for rounding up the calculated value for T1 line rockets and T1 airbursts to the next metre.;
— Clause 11.4 “Test report” added 4 items.
— Clause 12.1 “General” requirement added for batch tests;
— Clause 12.4 “Non-conformities” Table 8: effect dimensions is extended in more detail;
— Clause 13.4 “Category, registration number, product, batch or serial number” added: product, batch
or serial number;
— Clause 13.10 “Instructions for use, safety and disposal information” added the sentence: “This
pyrotechnic article is for stage, film and television productions or similar use only”;
— Clause 16.2 “Indoor”; Requirement added with regard to the test area;
— Clause 18.4.2 “Procedure” the setup of the microphone of the sound level meter is better specified;
— Clause 18.17 “Use of detonative explosives” describes an extra added test for detonative explosives
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this
document.
1 Scope
This document defines various terms and specific requirements relating to the design, construction,
performance, primary packaging and testing of theatrical pyrotechnic articles and specifies their generic
types.
It defines the procedures for placing generic types, subtypes or individual items of theatrical pyrotechnic
articles into the appropriate Categories, T1 or T2 and lists them.
It specifies minimum labelling requirements for the article and primary packaging and for the
instructions for use. Specific test methods for theatrical pyrotechnic articles of the generic types are
defined.
NOTE “Theatrical pyrotechnic article(s)” is abbreviated by “article(s)” in this document.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 16265:2015, Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles - Ignition devices
EN 61672-1:2013, Electroacoustics - Sound level meters - Part 1: Specifications
EN ISO 13385-1:2019, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) - Dimensional measuring equipment - Part
1: Design and metrological characteristics of callipers (ISO 13385-1:2019)
ISO 2859-1:2026, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes — Part 1: Sampling schemes indexed by
acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot inspection
ISO 6344-3:2021, Coated abrasives — Determination and designation of grain size distribution — Part 3:
Microgrit sizes P240 to P5000
ISO 21948:2001, Coated abrasives — Plain sheets
ISO 22863-1:2020, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 1:
General
ISO 22863-3:2020, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 3:
Lead and lead compounds by atomic absorption
ISO 22863-4:2021, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 4:
Analysis of lead and lead compounds by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF)
ISO 22863-5:2021, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 5:
Analysis of lead and lead compounds by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP)
ISO 22863-8:2021, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 8:
Arsenic content by hydride generation atomic fluorescence spectrometry
ISO 22863-9:2021, Fireworks — Test methods for determination of specific chemical substances — Part 9:
Mercury content by hydride generation atomic fluorescence spectrometry
EN 10025-2:2019, Hot rolled products of structural steels - Part 2: Technical delivery conditions for non-
alloy structural steels
EN 13763-1:2025, Explosives for civil uses - Detonators and detonating cord relays - Part 1: Requirements
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org
3.1
acceptance quality limit
quality level that is the worst tolerable process average when a continuing series of lots is submitted for
acceptance sampling
[SOURCE: ISO 2859-1:2026, definition 3.1.26]
3.2
critical non-conforming unit
non-conforming unit with one or more critical non-conformities, with or without major or minor non-
conformities
3.3
critical non-conformity
non-conformity that judgement and experience indicate is likely to result in hazardous or unsafe
conditions
Note 1 to entry: This type of non-conformity is referred to as a ‘class A non-conformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.4
debris
any part of the article which remains after the article has ceased to function
3.5
effect distance
maximum distance of the effect in the direction of firing measured from the base of the article
Note 1 to entry: Materials such as confetti etc. are not considered as effect.
3.6
detonation
reaction which propagates through an explosive at supersonic velocity in the reacting explosive
[SOURCE: EN 16265:2015, definition 3.2.15]
3.7
detonative explosive
substance or mixture of substances which can undergo a fast internal decomposition reaction leading to
a detonation in normal use
[SOURCE: EN 16265:2015, definition 3.2.16]
3.8
electric igniter
article containing explosive substance(s) used to initiate combustion or deflagration which is actuated by
electrical means (e.g. a fusehead)
Note 1 to entry: Such articles are often equipped with leading wires which supply the electric power to their
sensitive element.
3.9
electrical ignition
any method of generating heat/sparks by electrical means
3.10
explosion
sudden release of energy accompanied by a report with or without a flash
3.11
friction head
ignition head designed to be initiated by friction
3.12
functioning length
distance over which the audible or visual effects of a line rocket are produced
3.13
fusehead
component of an electric igniter consisting of a bridgewire coated in a pyrotechnic composition and
protected by a layer of lacquer
3.14
hazardous debris
any debris capable of causing personal injury including but not limited to, sharp fragments, heavy casing
fragments and any burning and/or incandescent material
Note 1 to entry: Materials such as confetti etc. are not considered as hazardous debris.
3.15
initial fuse time
burning time of the initial fuse
3.16
initial fuse
component of an article which once ignited provides a delay to the start of the functioning of the article
3.17
lifting cup
means of separating the lift charge at the base of an article from effects above it by means of a membrane
often made of card/paper
3.18
major non-conforming unit
non-conforming unit with one or more major non-conformities, with or without minor non-conformities,
but with no critical non-conformities
3.19
major non-conformity
non-conformity, other than a critical non-conformity, which is likely to result in failure, to reduce
materially the usability of the article, or to increase the potential hazard
Note 1 to entry: This type of non-conformity is referred to as a ‘class B non-conformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.20
minor non-conforming unit
non-conforming unit with one or more minor non-conformities, but with no critical or major non-
conformities
3.21
minor non-conformity
non-conformity that is not likely to reduce materially the usability of the article
Note 1 to entry: This type of non-conformity is referred to as a ‘class C non-conformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.22
net explosive content
NEC
mass of pyrotechnic composition in the article, excluding the pyrotechnic composition in the initial fuse,
transmitting fuses and friction or ignition heads
Note 1 to entry: Net equivalent quantity (NEQ), net explosive mass (NEM), or net explosive weight (NEW) are often
used to convey the same meaning.
3.23
nitrocellulose cloth
nitrated cellulose material with less than 12,6 % nitrogen content that has the appearance of a woven
cloth and which burns rapidly when ignited
3.24
nitrocellulose cotton
nitrated cellulose material with less than 12,6 % nitrogen content that has the appearance of the raw
cotton as taken from around the cotton seed and which burns rapidly when ignited
3.25
nitrocellulose floss
nitrated cellulose material with less than 12,6 % nitrogen content that has the appearance of chopped
flock/felt, which burns rapidly when ignited
3.26
nitrocellulose string
nitrated cellulose material with less than 12,6 % nitrogen content that has the appearance of string,
which burns rapidly when ignited
3.27
nitrocellulose paper
nitrated cellulose material with less than 12,6 % nitrogen content with the appearance of sheet paper,
which burns rapidly when ignited
3.28
non-conforming unit
article or a primary pack with one or more non-conformities
3.29
non-conformity
non-fulfilment of a requirement
[SOURCE: ISO 9000:2015, definition 3.6.9]
3.30
preliminary effect
visual effect which follows the initial fuse burning and precedes the first principal effect of an article
3.31
primary pack
package of one or more articles of the same category and generic type, offered for retail sale as a single
unit
3.32
principal effect
any of the effects listed in Table 1 for the particular type of article
3.33
pyrotechnic composition
substance or mixture of substances which is designed, on ignition or initiation, to produce an aural and/or
visual effect and/or to evolve gas
3.34
pyrotechnic star
unit consisting solely of consolidated pyrotechnic material
3.35
pyrotechnic unit
discrete pyrotechnic construction that is assembled into or on an article and which, upon functioning,
will react to produce a visual and/or aural effect
Note 1 to entry: The effect produced by a pyrotechnic unit is normally part of a combination of effects produced by
the article.
3.36
radial effect distance
maximum distance of the effect in any direction except in the direction of firing
Note 1 to entry: Materials such as confetti etc. are not considered as effect.
3.37
radial safety distance
minimum distance from the article to persons or flammable materials in any direction except the firing
direction, to reduce risk to as low as reasonably practicable
Note 1 to entry: There might be different safety distances for persons who are protected from the effects by
protective equipment and those without protective equipment.
3.38
safety distance
minimum distance of persons or flammable materials or obstructions from the article in the direction of
the effect to reduce the risk to as low as reasonably practicable
Note 1 to entry: There might be different safety distances for persons who are protected from the effects by
protective equipment and those without protective equipment.
3.39
selection pack
package of articles of more than one type and/or more than one category, offered for retail sale as a single
unit
Note 1 to entry: A selection pack may contain primary packs as well as individual articles.
3.40
transmitting fuse
component of an article which is intended to transmit ignition from one part of an article to another, with
or without a delay
3.41
effect dimensions
dimensions of the visual effect in space length, width and height
Note 1 to entry: Dimensional effects do not apply to smoke, confetti and streamers.
3.42
effect charge
pyrotechnic composition, other than propellant charge or bursting charge, which upon functioning will
react to produce a visual and/or aural effect
3.43
bursting charge
pyrotechnic composition which is intended to burst open the article case, in order to expel one or more
pyrotechnic units, which can also transmit ignition
3.44
propellent charge
pyrotechnic composition which will burn to evolve gas which, in turn, is intended to propel the
pyrotechnic article as a whole or to expel one or more pyrotechnic units without bursting the pyrotechnic
article case(s), and which can also transmit ignition
3.45
type test
test performed on a sample of products, representative of the production envisaged, in order to
demonstrate their compliance with the essential safety requirements of Annex I and the relevant
provisions of Directive 2013/29/EU
Note 1 to entry: The successful submission to type tests leads to the attribution of an EU-type examination
certificate.
3.46
batch test
test performed on one or more sample(s) of products taken at random from a production batch to check
compliance with a given specification
Note 1 to entry: Batch testing needs all products in the production batch to comply with the characteristics the
standard requires to ensure homogeneity of the whole batch. It aims at proving all products which are placed on
the market are in conformity with the type which is described in the EU-type examination certificate and have been
successfully submitted to type tests determined by the standard.
4 Generic types
Table 1 lists generic types of theatrical pyrotechnic articles and describes their principal effects.
Table 1 — Description and primary effects of generic types
Generic type Description Principal effect/comments
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s)
Production of visual and/or aural
Airburst which is suspended in the air and functions to
effects.
produce a visual and/or aural effect.
A pyrotechnic composition or an article
containing pyrotechnic composition(s) which Production of coloured flame (and
Bengal flame
produces a (coloured) light or flame where the smoke).
effect is not instantaneous.
An article containing consolidated pyrotechnic
Production of coloured flame (and
Bengal flare composition(s) which produces a (coloured) light
smoke).
or flame where the effect is not instantaneous.
A stick partially coated with slow-burning
Emission of a bright light for a
Bengal stick pyrotechnic composition(s), designed to be held
stated duration.
in the hand.
Various effects including but not
Binary Separate non-pyrotechnic composition(s) which
limited to report, coloured flashes
mixture form a pyrotechnic composition, when combined.
of light, fire, smoke, sparks.
An article containing pressed or consolidated
pyrotechnic composition(s) producing light and
sparks in a directed manner, and which can Produces light, sparks and, if any, a
Carretilla
culminate in the production of a report, report.
manufactured with an integral fitting designed to
be mounted on a rod.
An assembly including several elements, either
containing the same type or several types, each
corresponding to one of the types of pyrotechnic
articles listed in this table, with one or multiple
Combination points of ignition and in which the initial fuse As per individual elements.
transmits fire from one element to the next to fire
the articles sequentially or in some other pattern,
and where not all the elements of the
combination are type approved.
Generic type Description Principal effect/comments
Tube with or without a propellant charge and (a)
Single ejection of the pyrotechnic
pyrotechnic unit(s), with or without a bursting
Comet unit(s) producing a visual or aural
charge, of which at least one unit has a diameter
effect in the air
of at least half of the inner diameter of the tube
A pyrotechnic substance which is insensitive to
Desensitized
ignition by virtue of an additive when supplied Produces light, sparks, flames,
pyrotechnic
but is converted to a pyrotechnic substance at the sound or smoke.
composition
point of use by removal of the additive.
An article that contains pyrotechnic
Dropping composition(s) and/or pyrotechnic stars and/or Produces visual and/or aural
effect pyrotechnic units, designed to produce its effect effects.
in a downward direction.
An article containing a pyrotechnic
An explosion effect generating
composition(s) and/or pyrotechnic stars and/or
Explosion noise with or without coloured fire,
pyrotechnic units and/or flammable materials
simulator smoke, sparks or other visual
and/or inert material to simulate a small or large
and/or aural effects.
explosion.
An article containing a pyrotechnic propellent
charge, pyrotechnic composition(s) and/or non-
Produces a Ball of fire with or
pyrotechnic compositions but not containing
Fireball without smoke and/or sparks
discrete unit, which can produce an
and/or aural effect.
instantaneous ball of fire with or without smoke
and/or sparks and/or aural effect.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) Generates a column of flame with
Flame
producing a flame or a projected column of flame or without other visual and/or
projector
with or without other visual and/or aural effects. aural effects.
Production of sparks and /or other
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s)
Fountain visual or aural effects in a directed
producing effects in a directed manner.
manner.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s)
Generates a Jet of sparks and/or
Jet to produce a jet of sparks and/or (coloured)
(coloured) flames.
flames over a short duration.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) Emits light and/or aural effects and
Line rocket that is designed to be attached to a wire and has a or sparks and/or coloured smoke
controlled trajectory. while being propelled along a wire.
A single sealed unit containing pyrotechnic
Produces instantaneous report
composition(s) whose principle function is to
Maroon with or without coloured light
produce a loud report with the complete
and/or sparks.
fragmentation of the casing.
Tube containing pyrotechnic units of diameters Single ejection of the content
less than half the inner diameter of the tube with producing a widely dispersed
Mine
or without a propellent charge. visual and/or aural effect in the air.

Generic type Description Principal effect/comments
A single tube containing pyrotechnic Instantaneous ejection of inert
Projection
composition(s) and inert items (e.g. confetti and paper or novelty effects. May
device
streamer) which are projected from the article. produce noise and/or smoke.
An article consisting of a single tube, containing a
Roman series of pyrotechnic units with alternate Emits units sequentially producing
candle payloads and propellant charges and a directional visual effects.
transmitting fuse.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) Rotational effect emitting coloured
Rotating
and functions in such a way that the article light and or sparks with or without
effect
rotates. an aural effect.
Self- An article comprising of only pyrotechnic
Produces light, smoke, sparks or
consuming substance(s), leaving no debris after the article
noise.
article has ceased to function.
A pyrotechnic composition that is ignited in a
Smoke
suitable container (e.g. open flame-bowl) or in a Produces smoke.
device
preformed shape or cartridge to produce smoke.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s)
Produces a curtain of flame and
Split tube which is designed to produce a two-dimensional
sparks.
curtain of sparks or other pyrotechnic effects.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s), Generates an eruption of smoke,
Squib principally designed to disrupt inert material to flame or sparks from a point
mimic a bullet/puncture wound. source.
A low smoke pyrotechnic composition that is
ignited in a suitable container (e.g. open flame-
Theatrical
bowl) or in a preformed cartridge and is Production of coloured flame.
fire
predominantly designed for indoor use to
produce a (coloured) light and flame effect.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) Generates an instantaneous flash of
Theatrical
where the effect is instantaneous, directed and light. May be accompanied by
flash
the primary effect is a flash of light. smoke, sparks and an aural effect.
A single sealed unit containing pyrotechnic
composition(s) whose principle function is to Produces instantaneous report
Theatrical
produce a loud report where only one surface of with or without coloured light
report
the casing ruptures/opens in the direction of the and/or sparks.
effect.
An article containing pyrotechnic composition(s)
Produces a whistle with or without
Whistle that produces an aural whistling effect and may
sparks.
produce a visual effect.
5 Categories
5.1 General
Articles are categorized into two categories as follows:
Category T1: Articles for stage use which present a low hazard and which are intended for indoor and
outdoor use.
NOTE 1 Some T1 articles are restricted for outdoor use only and denoted as T1 ‘for outdoor use only’.
Category T2: Articles for stage use which are intended for use only by persons with specialist knowledge.
NOTE 2 The term ‘stage use’ includes film and television productions or similar use.
5.2 Category T1
According to their Generic type, not all types are permissible in all categories.
The types permitted for T1 or T1 ‘for
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