Overview - ISO 25947-3:2017 (Fireworks labelling)
ISO 25947-3:2017 specifies the minimum labelling requirements for consumer fireworks in Categories 1, 2 and 3. It covers labelling for the article itself and for primary or selection packaging for a long list of firework types (e.g., aerial wheels, batteries, Roman candles, sparklers, rockets, combinations, fountains, wheels and many novelties). The standard does not apply to theatrical pyrotechnic articles used for stage, film or television productions.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Mandatory information: type of firework (in upper case, per ISO 25947-2), category (e.g., “CATEGORY 2” or “CAT 2”), registration number (if applicable), net explosive content (NEC), year of production (Category 3), safety information, and manufacturer/importer name and address (town and country).
- Safety instructions: minimum safety text and placing instructions are specified by firework type (see Table 1). Safety information must be emphasized (heading, bold type or similar) and presented in a logical sequence.
- Minimum age limits: labels must state the country-applicable minimum age. Default values (unless a State specifies otherwise) are Category 1 = 12 years, Category 2 = 16 years, Category 3 = 18 years.
- Special markings:
- Batteries and combinations with two initial fuses must mark the second fuse as “RESERVE FUSE”.
- Selection packs with mixed categories must show the highest category present (e.g., “CAT 3”).
- Where a primary pack is required or when the article is not fully labelled, the primary pack must include the statement “Must be sold as packaged.”
- Printing and legibility: labels must be clear, indelible and on a contrasting background. Minimum character heights: typically 2.8 mm for type/category and principal safety info on primary packs; 2.1 mm for other information. Reduced sizes and alternative rules apply for very small items.
- Traceability and conformity: lot numbers and batch/test traceability may be included. Conformity to labelling requirements is verified by visual examination.
Practical applications - who uses this standard
- Fireworks manufacturers and assemblers - to ensure compliant product and primary-pack labelling for retail sale.
- Importers and distributors - to verify packaging, age limits, NEC declarations and language requirements before placing goods on national markets.
- Retailers and online sellers - to confirm that products carry required safety instructions and “must be sold as packaged” statements when applicable.
- Regulators and market surveillance bodies - to assess label conformity and consumer safety information.
- Design and print houses - to produce labels that meet minimum character sizes, language presentation and durability requirements.
Related standards
- ISO 25947-1 - Terminology for fireworks.
- ISO 25947-2 - Categories and types of firework (used for the type name format).
- ISO 25947-4 - Test methods (referenced for legibility measurement).
Keywords: ISO 25947-3, fireworks labelling, minimum labelling requirements, NEC, category 1 2 3, safety information, primary pack, selection pack, reserve fuse, manufacturer details.
