Evolve Automation Solutions

How is the improper disposal of expired pyrotechnics hazardous and illegal?

 

Marine pyrotechnics typically have a shelf life of 3 years and need to be replaced once they have passed their expiry dates.

 

The proper disposal of expired marine pyrotechnics is extremely important as their components are toxic, reactive, and ignitable. Most, if not all are a safety hazards due to their combustible and reactive nature. Common ingredients in various types of pyrotechnics include strontium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, strontium peroxide, magnesium, sulfur, and potassium nitrate. Potassium nitrate and potassium perchlorate are known irritants, and perchlorate is a hazardous material also recognized as a water pollutant of concern. Other chemicals in the pyrotechnics, such as strontium nitrate and strontium peroxide, may also have an adverse impact on water quality.

 

It is also a common occurrence for expired marine pyrotechnics to be “recycled” into brand new ones. Disposal companies, especially those located in developing countries, have been known to erase the expiry dates from the expired pyrotechnics, print new dates on them and resell them off as new. In the event of an emergency, when the competency of the pyrotechnics is at the most crucial, these “recycled” pyrotechnics could be the difference between life and death.

 

It is illegal to:

 

• Throw pyrotechnics overboard into the sea

• Dispose of pyrotechnics as general waste

• Set off pyrotechnics at sea or on land unless in emergency situations or with special grant from the country authority

 

Illegal disposal consequences:

 

• Fines up to SGD100,000 under Singapore law- Environmental Public Health Act 1987 Section 20(1)

• Jail terms up to 12 months under Singapore law- Environmental Public Health Act 1987 Section 20(1)

• Cause fires and/or explosions resulting in injuries, loss of life and/or damage to property

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Why pay for an incomplete disposal service?

 

We are the first specialized and licensed service provider for the disposal of marine pyrotechnics in South East Asia. Our team are all trained and licensed by the Singapore Civil Defence Force and Singapore Police Force to safely collect, handle and transport the pyrotechnics from you till the pyrotechnics are destructed with a Legal Destruction Certificate Issued.

 

Engage us to ensure that all pyrotechnics are legally disposed of in the safest and most environmentally conscious manner.

 

We work closely with all relevant Singapore Government Agencies, the Singapore Police Force, the National Environment Agency of Singapore and the Marine Port Authority of Singapore with regards to the proper disposal of the pyrotechnics.