The illegal sale of fireworks on sites such as Facebook is a growing problem, and SafeWork NSW are working closely with NSW Police Force to crack down on it and keep the community safe.

Executive director of SafeWork NSW Peter Dunphy said anyone who buys, sells or uses fireworks without a SafeWork NSW licence faces heavy fines or imprisonment.

“Fireworks are not a novelty item, they are regulated under explosives laws because they are an explosive  that can cause serious injuries and even death,” Mr Dunphy said.

“They should only be set off by trained and licensed individuals who know how to manage the risks and ensure everyone’s safety.”

Mr Dunphy said SafeWork inspectors will also be conducting random inspections at fireworks displays to ensure license holders are complying with their licence requirements.

“SafeWork NSW records show that over the past two years there have been three fatalities from illegal fireworks and numerous serious injuries, including burns and loss of limbs,” he said.

“SafeWork inspectors will be conducting spot checks of single-use licence holders and licensed pyrotechnicians this weekend. Any licence holder found to be breaching their licence faces on the spot fines of up $2500 and having their licence cancelled.”

Anyone caught selling or purchasing fireworks without a licence faces fines of up to $27000 and 12 months in jail, and anyone caught displaying fireworks without a licence faces penalties of up to $27,500.

Anyone with information on the illegal use or sale of fireworks should call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.