Phoenix Fireworks have been doing displays for over 40 years.

Originally the company was owned by Ian Craig (a long time resident of Sevenoaks) and subsequently was taken over by Martin Coffin. Under new ownership for 9 years now, the company has undergone major investment and improvements; ultimately leading to the collection of the two major British awards in the industry.

Safety is a by-word within our profession, with more regulations than the Nuclear industry we have a lot of interested people to keep satisfied. Enshrined in that culture is Phoenix’s need to maintain the highest possible safety standards.

Planning for a successful display is an absolute must. The display you see on the evening is the culmination of a long and detailed exercise in fireworks selection, music selection, layout and of course design. Once these elements are brought together the fireworks are fused and put onto frames for display. This process can take weeks to complete.

British Pyrotechnists’ Association

The British Pyrotechnists’ Association (BPA) is the recognised industry trade body for professional fireworks companies. Unlike the EIG, the BPA has minimum requirements in terms of membership – these are: significant turnover, adherence to a published code of conduct, correct insurance and storage facilities and licences. There are other trade bodies where the requirement is simply to pay a small fee. The membership of the BPA is just over thirty, but they represent the best in the industry.

Not only are Phoenix members of the BPA, but we are active on the management committee of the group. As an organisation we have instigated the only training and qualification system for those engaged in fireworks displays. All our staff have been trained and have taken (and passed) the BPA examination system to either Level 1 or Level 2. This exam is likely to be adopted by the EU as a definition of competency in the forthcoming legislation on fireworks.

Direct Importers of Fireworks

We have a very good relationship with some of the better producers of fireworks in China, Spain and to some extent Italy. Whilst most of the fireworks come from these sources we do use many other manufacturers around the world. The Spanish material we use is some of the best in the world, and is regularly used on the internationally televised shows that one sees from time to time-not least of which is the New Years Celebrations in London. Phoenix hold the Competent Authority Documents as issued by the HSE for the transport of these fireworks.

Risk Assessments

At Phoenix we will always check a site and assess the risks involved. As a result we may propose a different display, as we did recently in a town centre venue where we were able to provide a low level display rather than no display at all! We would also advise on crowd location and general site safety.

We have been involved in risk assessments for major public events to the more simple hotel venue. Each type has its own challenges and specialties – we will always aim to get the best from the fireworks in the safest way possible.

Phoenix have also provided courses to Local Authorities on the safe execution of displays. On an annual basis our insurers will do a safety and risk assessment on all or part of our company. It is with great pleasure that Phoenix always receives a ‘clean bill of health’.