Explosives + Authority Having Jurisdiction
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
The AHJ may request a Pyro Effects Plan or Letter of Intent. A Letter of Intent is usually satisfactory for film and television productions and should include:
- Locations and dates for filming of effects
- General description of the scene
- Effects to be used and their fabrication
- Anticipated result
- Safety measures to be taken
- Method of determining safety distances
Copies of Event Approval and Pyro Effects Plan/ Letter of Intent must be available on set.
Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
- Fire Chief/Fire Protection Office
- Film Commissioner
- Police Forces
- Provincial Occupational Health (Worksafe BC) and Safety Organizations (ActSafe)
- Designated representatives for event approval or site inspections
Demonstrations (Show and Tell)
A demonstration may be required to determine if the effect can be performed safely. It is understood that this is not always feasible in film and television production, due to the one-off nature of many performances.
Special Considerations
If you are based outside of Canada, and you are participating in the production of a pyrotechnic special effects event in Canada, you must:
- Employ a certified Canadian technician of the applicable class and obtain a Visitor Card from the Explosives Regulatory Division in addition to your work permit.
For information on the certification of pyrotechnics and pyrotechnical personnel, please refer to the website:
