Explosives Regulatory Division

Pyrotechnics special effects is a wide and varied field. A theatrical technician reproducing a lightning strike during a stage play, a pyrotechnician lighting a rock concert, a special effects technician destroying structures in a film scene - all these people are using pyrotechnics special effects in ways that
require certification under the law.

In view of the varied backgrounds and experience of technicians, the wide spectrum of special effects, and the differing physical situations and types of activities, pyrotechnics special effects certification is divided into the following classes:

Theatrical User - Unsupervised person using basic pyrotechnics.

Assistant - Unsupervised person using basic pyrotechnics, and all other authorized articles and powders if supervised. To upgrade to Assistant level, download the request for upgrade form.

Pyrotechnician or Special Effects Pyrotechnician - Requires extensive experience within the pyrotechnics industry; can use all authorized articles and powders. To upgrade to Pyrotechnician or Special Effects Pyrotechnician level, download the request for upgrade form.

Out-of-Country Technicians - If you are based outside of Canada and you are participating in the production of a pyrotechnics special effects event in Canada, you must:

• employ a certified Canadian technician of the applicable class and obtain a Visitor Card (issued on a yearly basis + pay required fees) upon submission of proof of competence (download visitor application form); or
• obtain Canadian certification through the Canadian process for qualifying technicians.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) - Members of agencies who are associated with pyrotechnics events, such as fire departments, film commissioners, police forces, and provincial occupational health and safety organizations, will be issued a Pyrotechnics Special Effects Certification card upon completion of the course. If attending the course as an AHJ, but you also require certification to work within the industry, you must follow the certification process as outlined above for Theatrical User or Assistant.

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