Safety Precautions

One of the most dangerous aspects of effects work is the use of pyrotechnics and explosives. It would seem unnecessary therefore to underline the need for suitable safeguards, but accidents sometimes occur even when all precautions appear to have been taken.

Pyrotechnic material

When working with loose pyrotechnic mixtures, ensure that all containers are closed or covered. Keep amounts to the minimums required and divide large amounts into smaller containers. Use non-ferrous implements to avoid producing sparks.

Don’t store pyrotechnics that have been specially designed for particular jobs, unless their characteristics and formulae are shown on the container.

When testing experimental work do so under conditions as near to those finally envisaged as possible. What seems reasonable when fired in a sunlit, open field may be extremely dangerous at close quarters in a studio.

Wiring up

When wiring up a sequence of ground explosions, carefully mark the wires by tying sequences of knots at either end of single leads. Never connect anything to a wire without first making certain that the battery or firing box is not attached to the other end. It is not sufficient merely to disconnect one pole; somebody kicking the leads could cause reconnection.

In an uncomplicated sequence using conventional components, it is seldom necessary to test the circuit before firing, but if in doubt, use a detonator circuit tester (never an ordinary test meter).

Flammables

When using gasoline for fire sequences apply it from containers with nozzles. Ensure that flammable liquids are not spilled or splashed onto clothing. Keep all containers well away from the scene of fire. Ensure that fire-fighting equipment is placed at strategic places. No fire effect, however small, should be carried out without at least one extinguisher available on site.

Where garments are to be set on fire, wet blankets extinguish the blaze more effectively than conventional fire extinguishers.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Ensure that personnel cannot be trapped in buildings or studios before commencing fire and smoke sequences.

2. Keep fire extinguishers ready during fire sequences.

3. Don’t pour liquid fuel onto something that has just been extinguished. Use pre-soaked material.

4. Always ensure that leads are not connected to firing devices before connecting explosive items.

5. Don’t retain ‘special’ pyrotechnic items.

6. Always carry explosives and pyrotechnics in suitable containers.

7. It is usual for two people to accompany large amounts of explosives or pyrotechnics being transported by road. In the event of a breakdown one can summon help while the other remains with the vehicle.