KENYA STANDARD        KS 2 443-2:2018 
         ICS ….. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fireworks —Part 2: Roman candles — 
Specification and test methods  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Up dated on 23rd February 2018  
 KS 2 443-2:2018 
ii         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
 
 
 
 
 
 © KEBS 2018                       1ST   Edition 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE REPRESENTATION  
 
The following organizations were represented on the Technical Committee:  
 
Ministry of Roads -Materials dept  
Kenya Police  
Tononoka Fireworks LTD.  
Hindu Council of Kenya.  
Ministry of Environment and Mineral –Mines Dept  
UON - Geology Dept  
Consumer Information Network  
Government Chemist Dept  
UON -Chemistry Dept  
Kirdi 
Kenya National Cleaner Production Centre  
NEMA  
 
 
 
 
 
REVISION OF KENYA STANDARDS  
 
In order to keep abreast of progress in industry, Kenya Standards shall be regularly reviewed.  Suggestions for 
improvements to published standards, addressed to the Managing Director, Kenya Bureau of Standards, are welcome.  
 
 
  
 
©Kenya Bureau of Standards, 20 18 
 
Copyright. Users are reminded that by virtue of Section 25 of the Copyright Act, Cap. 12 of 2001  of the Laws of Kenya, 
copyright subsists in all Kenya Standards and except as provided under Section 26 of this Act, no Kenya Standard 
produced by Kenya Burea u of Standards may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system in any form or transmitted by  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    iii any means without prior permission in writing from the Managing Director . 
 
 
KENYA BUREAU OF STANDARDS (KEBS)  
 
Head Office:  P.O. Box 54974, Nairobi -00200, Tel.: (+254 020) 605490, 602350, Fax: (+254 020)  604031  
E-Mail: info@kebs.org,  Web:http://www.kebs.org   
 
Coast Region     Lake Region          Rift Valley Region  
P.O. Box 99376, Mombasa -80100  P.O. Box 2949, Kisumu -40100        P.O. Box 2138, Nakuru -20100  
Tel.: (+ 254  041) 229563, 230939/40  Tel.: (+254 057) 23549, 22396        Tel.: (+254 051) 210553, 210555  
Fax: (+254  041) 229448   Fax: (+254 057) 21814  
 
 
 
Foreword  
 
 
This standard  has been prepared by the Technical Committee on commercial exp losives, Fireworks, 
Pyrotechnics and other Blasting materials under the guidance of the Standards Projects Committee , 
and it is in accordance with the procedures of the Kenya Bureau of Standards . 
 
Roman candles are fireworks constructed with bentonite, lifting charge, pyrotechnic star, black 
powder, and delay charge. The device is ignited from the top, which should be pointed into the sky, 
away from people. The delay powder is packed tightly in the tube, so that the flame cannot reach 
around the sides of the plug of delay composition. It therefore burns slowly; as it is consumed, the 
flame moves down through the tube. When the flame reaches the topmost pyrotechnic star, the star 
is ignited. Because t he star fits loosely in the tube, the fire spreads around it and ignites the lift 
charge. The lift charge burns quickly, propelling the star out of the tube. In doing so it also ignites the 
layer of delay powder beneath it, and the process repeats . Prior t o the publication of 
CD/CHEM/99:2015,    there had been no comprehensive document published in Kenya concerned 
with the quality of roman candles , although fireworks are subject to certain legislation, notably the  
Explosives Act Chapter 115 and the Firearms  Act Chapter 114.  
 
ocument:  
 
BS EN 14035 -28:2004 Fireworks —Part 28: Roman candles — Specification and test methods  
The Explosives Act Chapter 115  Laws of Kenya . 
 
Acknowledgement is hereby made for the assistance received from th is source .  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    5 1 Scope  
This Kenya Standard  specifies requirements for the construction, performance, primary packaging and labelling 
of Roman candles and the corresponding test methods. It is applicable to fireworks, which  are classified as 
Roman candles in categories 2 and 3 in KS 2443 -1. 
 
It is not applicable to Roman candles containing pyrotechnic composition, which  includes any of the following 
substances:  
 
—   arsenic or arsenic compounds;  
—   mixtures containing a mass fraction of chlorates greater than 80 %;  
—   mixtures of chlorates with me tals; 
—   mixtures of chlorates with red phosphorus;  
—   mixtures of chlorates with potassium hexacyanoferrate(II);  
—   mixtures of chlorates with sulfur;  
—   mixtures of chlorates with sulfides;  
—   lead or lead compounds;  
—   mercury compounds;  
—   white  phosphorus;  
—   picrates or picric acid;  
—   potassium chlorate with a mass fraction of bromates greater than 0 .15 %;  
—   sulfur with an acidity, expressed in mass fraction of sulphuric acid, greater than 0,002 %;  
—   zirconium with a particle size of les s than 40 µm.  
 
2    Normative references  
 
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references , only the edition cited applies .  For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced  document 
(including any amendments) applies.  
 
KS 2443 -1:2013, Fireworks —Part 1: Classification of fireworks  
KS 2364 Glossary of terms used in commercial explosives, Fireworks, Pyrotechnics  and other blasting 
materials  
KS  ISO 845, Cellular plastics and rubbers — Determination of apparent (bulk) density (ISO 845:1988).  
KS  ISO 868, Plastics and ebonite - Determination of indentation hardness by means of a durometer (Shore 
hardness) (ISO 868:2003).  
KS  ISO 2439, Flexible cellular polymeric materials - Determination of hardness (indentation technique)  
Ks ISO  2859 -1, Sampling procedures for  inspection by  attributes —  Part  1:  Sampling schemes indexed by 
acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot -by-lot insp ection.  
3  Definitions  
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in KS 2364 shall  apply.  
 
 
 KS 2 443-2:2018 
6         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
4    Construction  
 
4.1 Means of ignition  
A protruding fuse shall identify the means of ignition. Conformi ty to this requirement shall be verified by visual 
examination.  
4.2 Attachment of initial fuse  
The attachment of the protruding fuse to the Roman candle shall be secure  when tested in accordance with 
Annex A.  
4.3 Protection of initial fuse  
4.3.1    General  
The initial fuse shall be prote cted in one of the ways specified in 4.3.2, 4.3.3 or 4.3.4 . 
4.3.2    Initial fuse protected by fuse cover  
An orange fuse cover shall be in place over the initial fuse.  Conformity to this requirement shall be verified by 
visual examination.  
4.3.3    Initial  fuse protected by primary pack or selection pack  
The Roman candle shall be contained in a primary pack or selection pack conforming to clause 6. Conformity to 
this requirement shall be verified by visual examination.  
4.3.4    Protruding fuse designed to resist side ignition  
When tested in accordance with Annex B , the protruding fuse shall not ignite.  
4.4 Materials of firework case  
The tube shall be made of paper, cardboard or plastics. The base and/or means of fixing shall be made of non -
metallic material . Conformity  to these requirements shall be verified by visual examination.  
4.5 Integrity  
There shall be no holes, splits, dents or bulges in the tube. There shall be no holes or splits in the end closure. If  
the end closures  are separate components, the y shall  be securely in place. If  the base  is  a separate 
component, it shall be securely in place.  
Conformity to these requirements shall be verified by visual examination.  
4.6 Net explosive content  
4.6.1 When determined in accordance with  Annex C, a category 2 Roman candle shall have a net explosive 
content of not more than 50,0 g. Each pyrotechnic unit shall have a net explosive content of not more than 10,0 
g. 
4.6.2 When determined in accordance with Annex C, a category 3 Roman candle shall have a n et explosive 
content of not more than 300,0 g. Each pyrotechnic unit shall have a net explosive content of not more than 50,0 
g. 
4.7 Mass of report charge  
4.7.1 When determined in accordance with annex C , a category 2 Roman candle shall not contain more th an 
5 pyrotechnic units containing report composition and each of these pyrotechnic units shall have a net explosive 
content of not   more   than   5 .0   g   of   black   powder   or   4 .0   g   nitrate/metal -based   report   composition   
or   2.0   g perchlorate/metal -based report composition.  
4.7.2 When determined in accordance with annex C , a category 3 Roman candle shall not contain more than 
10 pyrotechnic units containing report composition and ˆeach of these pyrotechnic units shall have a net  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    7 explosive  content  of   not  more  than  1 0.0  g  of  black  powder  or  8.0  g  of  nitrate/metal -based  report 
composition or 4.0 g of perchlorate/metal -based report composition.'  
4.8 Vertical stability  
For Roman candles designed to be placed on the ground , the Roman candle shall not fall over when tested in 
accordance with annex D . 
 
5 Performance  
5.1 Initial fuse  
 
When tested in accordance with annex E , the initial fuse of a Roman candle shall ignite within 10 s and the 
ignition shall be visible. For  category 2 Roman candles, the duration of the initial fuse burning shall be 3.0 s to 
8.0 s, when tested in accordance with annex E . 
 
For category 3 Roman candles, the duration of the initial fuse burning shall be 5.0 s to 13. 0 s, when tested in 
accordance  with annex E . 
 
5.2 Invisible burning  
When tested in accordance with annex E , any period of invisible burning occurring after the prelim inary effect 
shall not exceed 5. 0 s for a category 2 Roman candle or 10. 0 s for a category 3 Roman candle.  
5.3 Principal  effects  
When tested in accordance with annex E , the principal effects of the Roman candle  shall be the ejection of 
pyrotechnic units in succession, producing a series of visual and/or aural effects, in the air.  
5.4 Functioning  
When tested in accordance wi th annex E all the pyrotechnic units of the Roman candle shall be ejected and 
function.  
5.5 Sound pressure level  
5.5.1 When  tested  in  accordance  with  annex E ,  a  category 2  Roman candle shall  produce  a  maximum  
A-weighted impulse sound pressure level (L AImax) of not higher than 120 dB(AI) at a horizontal distance of 8,0 m 
from the testing po int and at a height of 1. 0 m above the ground.  
 
5.5.2 When  tested  in  accordance  with  annex E ,  a  category 3  Roman candle shall  produce  a  maximum  
A-weighted impulse sound pressure level (L AImax) of not higher than 120 dB(AI) at a horizontal distance of 15,0 m 
from the tes ting point and at a height of 1. 0 m above the ground.  
5.6 Height of explosions and bursting (if applicable)  
5.6.1  When tested in acc ordance with annex E , the pyrotechnic units of a category 2 Roman candle shall not 
explode or burst below a height of 8 m.  
5.6.2 When tested in accordance with annex E , the pyrotechnic units of a category 3 Roman candle shall not 
explode or burst below a h eight of 20 m.  
 
5.7 Burning matter  
5.7.1 When tested in accordance with annex E , no burning or incandescent matter from a category 2 Roman 
candle shall fall to the ground more than 6.0 m from the testing point.  KS 2 443-2:2018 
8         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  5.7.2 When tested in accordance with annex E , no burning or incandescent matter from a category 3 Roman 
candle shall fall to the ground more than 15.0 m from the testing point.  
5.7.2 When tested in accordance with annex E , any flames caused by the functioning of the Roman candle 
shall be extinguishe d within 60.0 s of the Roman candle ceasing to function.  
5.8 Stability  
When tested in accordance with annex E , the Roman candle shall remain upright whilst functioning.  
5.9 Integrity of the firework case after functioning  
When tested in accordance with annex E, there shall be no additional holes or splits in the firework case.  
6 Primary pack or selection pack  
6.1 If a primary pack or selection pack is required to protect the initial fuse(s) of the Roman candle(s), the 
pack shall completely enclose the Roman  candle(s) and there shall be no holes or splits in the pack, except 
those which are intended to enable the packaging to be opened or otherwise technically necessary.  
6.2 Conformity to these requirements shall be verified by visual examination.  
 
7 Minimum labelling requirements  
 
7.1 General  
 
7.1.1 Roman candles and their primary packs, if any, shall be marked with the information specified in 7.2 to 
7.5 and, if relevant, 7.7 and/or 7.8.  
 
7.1.2 The specified information shall be given  in the language(s) of the country in which the Roman candles or 
primary packs are offered for retail sale. For each language, it shall be presented as a whole and shall not be 
interrupted by other text. Additional text given in another language shall not conflict with the specified 
information.  
 
7.1.1Conformity to  the  requirements  specified  in  7.1  to  7.5,  7.6.1,  7.7.2  and  7.8  shall  be  verified  by  
visual examination.  
7.2 Type name, category and number of shots  
 
The type name and the number o f shots shall be marked, in upper case, e.g. as '8 SHOT ROMAN CANDLE'. If a 
trade name is used in addition to the type name, it shall not conflict with the effect of a Roman candle or with the 
name of another type of firework.  
 
The appropriate category sha ll be marked, in upper case, as 'CATEGORY 2' or 'CAT 2', for example.  
7.3 Safety information  
 
7.3.1    General  
 
Safety information shall be emphasized by use of a heading, or bold type, or similar. If necessary, instructions in 
addition to those specified in 7.3.2 to 7.3.4 may be given.  
7.3.2    Category 2 Roman candles  
Labelling shall include at least the following safety information in the order as given:   
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    9 —   'For outdoor use only’;  
—   'Avoid overhead obstructions';  
Specific placing instructions for different types of Roman candles, inserted as appropriate (see 7.3.4);  
—   'Remove orange fuse cover'1);  
—   'Standing sideways, light fuse at its outermost end and retire immediately at least 8 m'.  
-Instruction for correct use, handling  and storage and di sposal  
7.3.3    Category 3 Roman candles  
Labelling shall include at least the following safety information in the order as given:  
—   'For outdoor use only';  
—   'Avoid overhead obstructions';  
Specific placing instructions for different types of Roman cand les, inserted as appropriate (see 7.3.4);  
—   'Remove orange fuse cover'1);  
—   'Standing sideways, light fuse at its outermost end and retire immediately';  
—   'Spectators must be at least 25 m away';  
—   'Operator must retire at least 15 m'.  
- Instructi on for correct use,handling and storage and disposal  
7.3.4    Placing instructions:  
 
For Roman candles to be placed on flat ground:  
 
—   'Place Roman candle upright on flat ground'. For Roman candles to be buried into soft ground:  
—   'Bury two -thirds of R oman candle upright in ground'. For Roman candles to be inserted in soft ground:  
—   'Insert Roman candle upright in soft ground or other non -flammable material, e.g. sand';  
—   'Ensure Roman candle will not fall over' For Roman candles to be fixed to a po st: 
—   'Fix Roman candle firmly and upright to a solid post';  
—   'Ensure top of Roman candle clears post'.  
For Roman candles supplied with a special holding device, or for which particular instructions are necessary, the 
manufacturer shall provide appropriate instructions.  
 
7.4 Name, address and telephone number of manufacturer or distributor or importer  
Labelling shall include:  
—   the name or trade mark, the address and the telephone number of the manufacturer; or  
—   an abbreviation or a code all owing the identification of the manufacturer, and the name or trade mark, the 
address and the telephone number  
— of his authorized distributor; or  The address shall comprise at least the town and the country. On the Roman  
candle at least the abbreviations allowing the identification of  
—   the manufacturer; or  
—   the distributor or importer, with an additional code or abbreviation for the manufacturer shall be marked.  
 
7.6 Printing  
 
7.6.1    Labelling  
 
Labelling shall be clearly visible, easily legible, indelible and on a single -colour background.  KS 2 443-2:2018 
10         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
7.6.2    Type size  
 
When measured in accordance with annex F , the type sizes shall be such that the height of the character 'X' (in 
upper cases) is at least 2.8 mm for the infor mation specified in 7.2, 7.3 and 7.8 and at least 2.1 mm for the other 
information.  
 
 
7.7 Marking of very small Roman candles  
7.7.1    Reduced size  
If the Roman candle does not provide enough space for the specified information using the types sizes specif ied 
in 7.6.2, for the information specified in 7.2 and 7.3 the type size shall be reduced to 2 .1 mm.  
7.7.2    Reduced information  
If the Roman candle does not provide enough space to carry all the specified information even in reduced type 
size, at least the information specified in 7.4 shall be given on the Roman candle, if at all possible.  
 
7.8 Additional information on the primary  pack (if applicable)  
 
If the Roman candle is not labelled completely with the information specified in 7.2 to 7.5, or if the primary pack 
acts as protection of the initial fuses according to 4.3.3, the Roman candle shall be sold only in a primary pack. 
The primary pack shall be marked with the statement  
 
'Must be sold as packaged'.  
 
This statement shall appear adjacent to the type name or category. For the printing 7.6 applies.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
11  
 
 
 
 
Annex A  
(normative)  
 
Attachment  of protruding fuse (type test and batch test) 
 
A.1    Apparatus 
 
 
8.1.1      Means of clam ping the Roman  candle. 
 
 
8.1.2      Weight, of mass 100 g. 
 
 
8.1.3      Timing device, capable of being read to the nearest 0, 1 s. 
 
8.1.2     Procedure 
 
Clamp the Roman candle by means  of the clamping  device (A.1.1)  in a position such that the protruding fuse is 
pointing vertically downwards. Securely attach the 100 g weight (8.1.1.2) to the protruding fuse. 
 
Using the timing device (A.1.3), determine and record whether the protruding fuse will support the weight for at 
least 10 s without becoming detached. If the protruding fuse becomes detached, do not proceed with further 
testing of that Roman candle.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 KS 2 443-2:2018 
12         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annex B 
(normative)  
Side ignition of initial fuse (type test)  
 
B.1    Material  
 
Cigarette, untipped, of length (70 ± 4) mm, diameter (8,0 ± 0,5) mm and mass (1,0 ± 0,1) g, and having a 
smouldering rate of (9,5 ± 3,0) min over a 40 mm distance when determined in accordance with annex J. 
 
B.2    Test area 
 
The test area shall be a flat, horizontal, non -flammable surface inside a fume cupboard, or similar enclosed 
space, which is capable of preventing movement of air. A means of extracting fumes shall be provided but this 
shall be switched off during th e test.  
 
B.3    Apparatus  
 
Three wire supports, (2,0 ± 0,1) mm diameter, approximately 50 mm long.  
 
B.4    Test specimen  
 
Use the initial fuse obtained by dismantling the Roman candle for the determination of net explosive content  
 
B.5    Procedure  
 
Ignite the cigarette and rest it horizontall y on three wire supports , above the non -flammable surface in the test 
area . Place the test specimen crosswise over the cigarette, 15 mm from the end which has been ignited, as 
shown in Figure 3. Allow the cigare tte to burn 10 mm beyond the point where the initial fuse crosses it. Record 
whether the initial fuse ignites.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
13  
Key 
 
1     Test specimen 
2     Cigarette 
3     Wire suppo rt 
4     Non -flammable surface  
 
 Fig 3 (a)   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig 3 (b) –Side ignition test  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
KS 2 443-2:2018 
14         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  Annex C  
(normative)  
Determination of net explosive content (type test)  
 
C.1    Apparatus  
Laboratory balance,  capab le of weighing to the nearest 0. 1 g. 
C.2    Procedure  
C.1 Carefully dismantle a Roman candle. Separate the protruding fuse and retain this for the side ignition 
test Separate any pyrotechnic unit containing report composition, if any, and count them. Record the number of 
pyrotechnic units containing report composition.  
C.2 Weigh the pyrotechnic composition not contained in pyro technic units, to the nearest 0. 1 g, using the 
balance  Record the mass.  
C.3 If applicable, remove the pyrotechnic composition from each pyrotechnic unit not containing any report 
charge and weigh  each portion, to the nearest 0. 1 g, using t he balance . Record the masses.  
C.3 If applicable, remove the report composition from each pyrotechnic unit with report charge and weigh  
each portion, to the nearest 0.1 g, using the balance . Record the masses.  
C.4 Determine the net explosive content of t he Roman candle by adding the weighed masses of all 
pyrotechnic compositions. Record the net explosive content.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
15 Annex D 
(normative)  
Vertical stability test (type test) 
D.1    Apparatus 
 
 
D.1.1      Wood en block, rectangular, with an upper surface inclined at 10° to the horizontal. 
 
 
D.1.2      Timing device, capable of being read to the nearest 0,1 s. 
 
 
D.2    Procedure 
 
 
D.2.1      Place the base of the Roman candle on the inclined surface of the wooden block.For polygonal 
(triangular, etc.) bases, align one edge of the base with the top edge of the wooden block. 
 
D.2.2      Using the timing device, observe and record whethe r the Roman candle falls over within 5 s. If it falls 
over discontinue the test. 
 
 
D.2.3      Rota te the Roman candle clockwise through 90° and repeat the observation described  in D.2.2. 
 
 
D.2.4      Repeat the operations described  in D.2.3 twice more (unless the Roman candle falls over). 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 KS 2 443-2:2018 
16         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  Annex E 
(normative)  
Performance  (type test and batch test) 
 
E.1    Test environment 
 
 
E.1.1      Test area for category 2 Roman candles.  
 
E.1.1.1 The test area shall be an outdoor site, on level ground, with a radius of at least 9 m and a smooth,  
hard, horizontal, sound-reflecting, non-flammable  surface (for example, concrete). If applicable,  provision shall 
be made at the centre of the test area for partially burying the Roman candle to be tested. A circle, radius 6.0 
m, shall be marked around  the centre of the test area. 
 
E.1.1.2 One position for monito ring the height of explosion or bursting of the pyrotechnic units  shall be 
provided, at a measured distance of at least 8 m from the testing point (in the centre of the test area). 
E.1.2      Test area  for category 3 Roman candles.  
 
E.1.2.1 The test area shall be an outdoor site, on level ground, with a radius of at least 16 m and a smooth,  
hard, horizontal, sound-reflecting, non-flammable  surface (for example, concrete). If applicable,  provision shall 
be made at the centre of the test area for partially burying the Roman candle to be tested. A circle, radius 15.0 
m, shall be marked around  the centre of the test area. 
 
E.1.2.2 One position for monito ring the height of explosion or bursting of the pyrotechnic units  shall be 
provided, at a measured distance of at least 15 m from the testing point (in the centre of the test area). 
 
E1.3      Wind speed. A means  of measuring the wind speed at a height of 1.5 m above the ground shall be 
provided. No performance testing shall be carried out if the wind speed exceeds 5.0 m/s. 
 
 
E.2    Apparatus 
 
E.2.1      Timing device, suitable of displaying at least one intermediate  time, capable of being read to the 
nearest 0.1s. 
 
 
E2.2      Ignitio n source, capable of producing a small flame or of smoulde ring. 
 
 
E.2.3      Sound  level meter (for type testing only) with a free-field micropho ne. 
 
 
E.2.4      Means of monito ring the height of explosion and bursting of pyrotechnic units, capable of 
indicating vertical heights  of 8 m above  the ground for catego ry 2 Roman candles and 20 m above the ground 
for catego ry 3 Roman candles. 
 
Note:  1      A suitable viewing screen is shown in Figure 1 and the principle of its use is shown in  
 
Note:  2      A vertical height of 8 m can be indicated by 8 m poles around the perimete r of the test area. 
 
Distance X is given, in millimetres, by the equation: 
 
 
𝑋=600−(19.4𝑥600
𝑦) 
 
Where y is the distance, in m, from the viewing point to the testing point (see Figure 2).  
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
17 The observer is positioned  so that the bottom edge of the triangle on the front screen coincides with the lower 
edge of the Roman candle and the bottom edge of the back screen coincides with the bottom edge of the 
horizontal tape on the front screen.  
 
 
 
Dimension in milimetere  
. 
 
Key 
1     Acrylic glass      Fig 1: -Viewing screen  
 
2     Black tape, 10 mm to 20 mm wide  
 
3     Solid base  
 
4     Stand  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key   Figure 2 – Use of a viewing screen to monitor a height of 20 m  
KS 2 443-2:2018 
18         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
 
1     Upper end of tube  
 
2     Sighting device  
 
3     Position of observer  
 
E 2.5      Measuring device, capable of measuring a height of 1,0 m to the nearest 10 mm.  
 
E.3    Procedure  
 
E.3.1      Measure and rec ord the wind speed . 
 
E.3.2      If carrying out a type test of Roman candles, set up the microphone of the sound level meter in the test 
area, at a height of 1. 0 m above the ground, determined b y the measuring device , and at a horizontal dista nce 
from the testing point of 8. 0 m fo r category 2 Roman candles or 15.0 m for category 3 Roman candles. Direct the 
microphone horizontally towards the testing point and, if necessary, connect it to the sound level meter.  
 
 
E.3.3      Position the Roman candle, in accordance with the instructions on the label, in the centre of the test 
area. Remove the orange fuse cover, if any, and straighten the initial fuse, if necessary. Apply the ignition source 
and at the same instant, s tart the timing device . Stop the intermediate time at the moment the protruding fuse 
ignites. If the initial fuse fails to ignite within 10 s, record the fact and do not proceed with further testing of that 
Roman candle.  
 
Otherwise, stop the timing device when  the Roman candle starts to produce its first effect. Record whether the 
initial fuse ignited within 10 s and whether the ignition of the initial fuse was visible.  
 
 
E.3.4      Record the duration of the initial fuse burning. Observe and record whether  any period of invisible 
burning exceeds 5.0 s for a catego ry 2 Roman candle or 10.0 s for a category 3 Roman candle.  Observe and 
record the principal effects and the number of shots  produced by the Roman candle. After the Roman candle 
has ceased to function, start the timing device immediate ly and record whether  any flames caused by the 
functioning of the Roman candle are extinguished within 60,0  s after the Roman candle has ceased to function. 
 
If testing a Roman candle with pyrotechnic units, using the monito ring apparatus, observe and record whet her 
the pyrotechnic units of the roman candle explode or burst at a height of less than 8 m above the ground  for 
catego ry 2 Roman candles or less than 20 m for catego ry 3 Roman candles. 
 
Observe and record whether any burning or incandescent matter  falls to the ground at a distance of more than 
6.0 m, for a catego ry 2 Roman candle,  or 15.0 m, for a category 3 Roman candle, from the testing point. 
Observe and record whether the Roman candle remains upright whilst functioning. 
E.3.5      Record the maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure level, as measured by the sound level 
meter. 
 
 
E.3.6      After the Roman candle  has ceased to function, examine the firework case and record, whether it 
has any additional holes or splits. 
 
E.3.7      After functioning, examine the Roman candle visually and record whether all the pyrotechnic units of 
the Roman candle  have been ejected and functioned. 
 
 
 
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
19 Annex F 
(normative)  
Labe lling (type test and batch test) 
 
Check conformity to 7.6.2 and 7.7.1, for example by comparing the type sizes on the actual 
label with a transparent copy made from Figure 4 (for the empty frame, use the inside). 
Record whether the type sizes were correct. 
 
  
 
Figu re 4 – Type sizes of print 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
KS 2 443-2:2018 
20         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
 
Annex G 
(normative)  
Type testing  
G.1  General  
 
For the purposes of type testing each of the Roman candles tested, except those used for the determination of 
net explosive content, shall meet one of the following sets of requirements.  
 
a) If the Roman candle has an initial fuse which is not designed to resist side ignition, it shall conform to 4.1,4.2, 
4.3.2 or 4.3.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.8 (if applicable) 5 and 7.  
 
b) If the Roman candle has an initial fuse designed to resist side ignition, it shal l conform to 4.1, 4.2, 4.3.4, 
4.4,4.5, 4.8 (if applicable) 5 and 7.  
The Roman candles used for the determination of net explosive content shall each conform to 4.6 and 4.7 and, if 
the initial fuse is designed to resist side ignition, it shall conform to 4. 3.4. 
 
The Roman candles subjected to mechanical conditioning in accordance with G.5 shall, additionally, conform to 
G.3. 
 
For Roman candles which are supplied in primary packs in order to protect the initial fuses of the Roman candles 
(see 4.3.3), each of the packs examined shall conform to 6 and 7.  
 
G.2  Number of Roman candles to be tested  
 
A total of 33 Roman candles shall be tested, in accordance with Table G.1. If the Roman candles are supplied in 
primary packs they shall be selected at random from at least 5 packs.  
 
 
 
 
Table G.1 – Number of Roman candles to be tested  
Number        of 
Roman 
candles  to  be 
tested Condition Tests  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
21 10 'As received' - Visual examination 
 
- 8.1 
 
- 8.2, if applicable 
 
- 8.3 
 
- 8.6 
10 After  thermal  condit ioning  in  accordance 
with G.4 - Visual examination 
 
- 8.1 
 
- 8.3 
10 After mechanical conditioning in accordance 
with G.5 - Visual examination 
 
- 8.1 
 
- 8.3 
3 'As received' - 8.4 
 
- 8.5, if applicable 
 
G.3 Loose pyrotechnic composition  
The mass of any loose pyrotechnic  composition collected after mechanical conditioning in accordance with  G.5 
shall not exceed 100 mg.  
G.4 Thermal conditioning  
 
Store the Roman candles for fou r weeks at a temperature of (50.0 ± 2. 5) °C and then for at least two days at 
room  temperature be fore testing. For Roman candles, which  are supplied in primary packs, condition the 
Roman candles by storing the appropriate number of complete, unopened packs.  
G.5  Mechanical conditioning  
 
G.5.1  Apparatus  
G.5.1.1    Mechanical shock apparatus, as illustrated in Figures G.1 to G.3, comprising the following 
components:  
 
a)  flat horizontal platform made of steel , 800 mm × 600 mm, 2 mm to 3 mm thick, with a 3 mm thick rim 
having a height of 15 mm; the platform is reinforced with eight steel ribs, 5  mm thick with a height of 30 mm, 
which are welded to the underside and run from the centre to each of the four corners and to the middle of each 
edge;  
b)     20 mm thick plate of fibreboard , firmly attached to the platform by screws;  
c)     cylindrical st eel boss , diameter 125 mm and height 35 mm, located under the centre of the platform;  
d)     284 mm long shaft , with diameter of 20 mm, fixed to the centre of the boss;  
e)     restraining peg , to prevent the platform from rotating; the mass of the platform  assembly (items a) to e))  
shall be (23 ± 1) kg;  KS 2 443-2:2018 
22         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  f)  annular, elastomeric pressure spring , with a Shore A hardness, when determined in accordance with 
EN ISO 868, of 68, outside diameter 125 mm, inside diameter 27 mm and height 32 mm, on which the cylindri cal 
boss will rest;  
g)  shallow steel cylinder , inside diameter 126 mm, wall thickness 5 mm, outside height 30 mm, with a 
base 8 mm thick which has a 25 mm diameter hole drilled through the centre, to contain the elastomeric spring;  
h)  supporting  steel cylinder , outside diameter 80 mm, inside diameter 60,1 mm and height 92,4 mm, to 
which the shallow cylinder is screwed;  
i)  PVC liner , outside diameter 60 mm, inside diameter 20,2 mm and height 92,4 mm, located inside the 
supporting cylinder and att ached by a screw;  
j)  steel  mounting plate , thickness 12 mm, with a 25 mm  hole drilled through the centre, to which the 
supporting steel cylinder is screwed;  
k)     steel base plate , thickness 12 mm;  
l)  four supporting pillars , height 260 mm and diamete r 32 mm, screwed to the mounting plate and to the 
base plate;  
m)   framework to support the base plate so that the complete assembly is at a convenient working height;  
 
n)     attachment to the shaft , allowing adjustment to the overall length, fitted with a cam wheel, outside 
diameter  
30,0 mm, with a contact surface 8,0 mm wide;  
o)  cylindrical cam , outside diameter 120 mm, inside diameter 100 mm, wall thickness 10 mm, with a 
'vertical drop' of 50,0 mm between the high point and the low point;  
p)     collar , outside diameter 50 mm, height 4,0 mm;  
q)     electric motor and suitable gearing , to rotate the cam at a rotational frequency of 1 Hz.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key 
 
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
23  
1     Restraining peg 
 
2     Platform 
 
3     Boss 
 
4     Pressure spring 
 
5     Cup 
 
6     Supporting cylinder 
 
7     PVC liner 
 
8     Mounting plate 
 
9     Shaft 
 
10   Supporting pillar 
 
 
Figure G.1 — Detail of top section of mechanical shock apparatus 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key 
 
1     Mounting plate  
 
2     Supporting pillar  
 
3     Base plate  
 
 
KS 2 443-2:2018 
24         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  Figure G.2 — General assembly  of mechanical shock apparatus  
 
 
 
G.5.1.2    Cellul ar rubber sheet, 100 mm thick. The material used shall have an apparent density, when  
determined in accordance with KS  ISO 845, of 35 kg/m3 and an indentation hardness check, when 
determined in accordance with KS ISO 2439, of 215 N. 
 
G.5.1.3    Laboratory balance, capable of weighing to the nearest 1 mg. 
 
 
G.5.2  Procedure  
 
G.5.2.1    Conditioning.  Place a sheet of paper on the platform of the mechanical shock appa ratus  (A.5.1.1) 
and place the Roman candles on top of the sheet of paper. Cover the Roman candles  with the cellular rubber 
sheet  (A.5.1.2) and secure it to the platform around  its edge s. Start the machine  so that the platform is raised 
and dropped onto the elastomeric spring, having adjusted the drop height (to about 25 mm) so that the 
maximum deceleration of each shock is 490 m/s2 and the duration of each shock impulse is about 60 ms. 
Continue running the machine  for 2 h. 
 
G.5.2.2    Collec tion of loose pyrotechnic  compo sition.  At the end of the 2 h period stop the machine  and 
remove the Roman candle s. Separate any pyrotechnic composition from the other loose material and weigh 
this pyrotechnic composition to the nearest 1 mg using the balance (A.5.1.3). Record whether the mass of the 
pyrotechnic composition exceeds  100 mg. 
 
 
 
G.6  Number of prima ry packs to be examined 
 
For Roman candles  which are supplied in primary packs  in order to protect the initial fuses  of the Roman 
candles,  examine at least  five packs to assess  conformity to 6 and 7. The packs  to be examined shall  include 
all those whose contents are used for the tests described in 8. 
 
 
 
G.7  Test  report  
 
The test report shall include at least the following  information,  with items m) to u) and w) to hh) being given for 
each Roman candle tested: 
 
 
a) * reference to this standard 
b) * complete  identification of the sample under test; 
c) * date  of completion of the testing; 
d) * whet her the means  of ignition is identified by a protruding fuse; 
e) * means by which the initial fuse is protected; 
f)  if  the initial fuse is  a protruding fuse designed to resist side ignition, whether the 
protruding fuse ignited for each of the items tested for that purpose; 
g) * if applicable, for each primary pack or selection pack examined,  whether the pack 
completely enclosed the Roman candle (s) and whet her there were any holes or splits 
in the pack except those intended to enable the packaging  to be opened and those 
which are otherwise technically necessary;  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
25   
  
h)  net explosive contents of the Roman candle for that purpose, in grams, 
 
and 
 
whet her the  net  explosive content  of  each Roman candle tested for  that purpose 
exceeds  50,0  g for a category 2 Roman candle, or exceeds  300,0 g for a category 3 
Roman candle  and, 
 
whet her the  net  explosive content  of  each  pyrotechnic unit  exceeds  10,0  g  for  a 
catego ry 2 Roman candle, or exceeds  50,0 g for a category 3 Roman candle, 
 
and 
 
if  applicable,  whether the  Roman candle contains  more  than   5  report  units  for  a 
catego ry 2 Roman candle or 10 report units for a category 3 Roman candle and, 
 
whet her the mass of the report charge, of each report unit, if any exceeds 
 
for a catego ry 2 Roman candle 5,0 g of black powder or 4,0 g of nitrate/metal-based 
composition or  2,0  g  of  perchlorate/metal-based composition,  or  for  a  category 3 
Roman candle  10,0 g of black powder or 8,0 g of nitrate/metal-based composition or 
4,0 g of perchlorate/metal-based composition; 
i) * if  applicable, for  each  primary pack  examined,  whether   the  type  name, catego ry, 
safety information,  name and address and telephone number of the manufacturer2) or 
distributor2) or importer2)  and the reference to this standa rd were correctly stated on 
the pack; 
j) * if applicable, for each primary pack examined,  whether the statement ‘Must be sold as 
packaged’  was correctly stated  on the pack; 
k) * if applicable, for each primary pack examined, whet her the specified information on 
the pack was clearly visible, easily legible, indelible, on a single-colour background 
and whether the type sizes were correct; 
l)  whet her the mass of any loose pyrotechnic composition collected after mechanical 
conditioning exceeded 100 mg; 
m) * materials of the firework case and of the base and/or  the means  of fixing and 
 
whet her  the  materials  of  the  body  of  the  firework  case  are  paper,  cardboard,  or 
plastics and whether the materials of the base and/or the means  of fixing are of non- 
metallic material; 
n) * if applicable, whether the orange  fuse cover  was in place over the initial fuse; 
o) * whet her there were any holes, splits, dents or bulges in the body of the firework case; 
p) * if applicable, whether the base was securely in place;  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
27 q) * if applicable, whet her there were any holes or splits in the end closures and whether 
the end closures were loose or missing; 
r) * if appli cable, whether the type name, catego ry, safety information,  name and address 
and telephone number of manufacturer2) or distributor2) or importer2) and the reference 
to this standard were correctly stated on the Roman candle; 
s) * If  appli cable, whet her the  specified information  on  the  Roman candle   was  clearly 
visible, easily legible, indelible, on a single-colour  background  and whether  the type 
sizes were correct; 
t) * whet her the protruding fuse was securely attached to the Roman candle; 
u)  if applicable, whether the Roman candle  over fell when  tested for vertical stability; 
v)  wind  speed at the time of performance testing,  in metres per second; 
w) * whether the initial fuse ignited within 10 s; 
x) * whet her the ignition of the initial fuse was visible; 
y) * duration of the initial fuse burning, in seconds  and whet her the duration of the initial 
fuse burning  was not less than  3,0 s or more than  8,0 s for a catego ry 2 Roman 
candle or not less than  5,0 s or more than  13,0 s for a catego ry 3 Roman candle; 
z) * whet her the Roman candle produced its principal effects; 
aa) * If appli cable, whether the pyrotechnic units explode or burst below a height of 8 m for 
catego ry 2 Roman candles or 20 m for catego ry 3 roman candles above the ground; 
bb) * whet her  all  the  pyrotechnic  units  of  the  Roman  candle  have  been  ejected  and 
functioned; 
cc) * whet her any period of invisible burning occurring after the preliminary effect shall not 
exceed 5,0 s for a category 2 Roman candle or 10,0 s for a catego ry 3 Roman candle; 
dd)  maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure level, in decibels (AI) and whether the 
maximum A-weighted impulse sound  pressure level exceeded  120 dB(AI); 
ee) * whet her any burning or incande scent matter  fell to the ground  a distance of more than 
6,0 m, for catego ry 2 Roman candles, or 15,0 m, for catego ry 3 Roman candle s, from 
the testing point; 
ff) * whet her any flames caused by the functioning of the Roman candle  were extinguished 
within 60,0  s of the Roman candle ceasing to function; 
gg) * whet her the Roman candle remained  upright whilst functioning; 
hh) * whet her there were any additional holes or splits in the firework case. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 KS 2 443-2:2018 
28         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved   
Annex H  
(normative)  
Batch testing  
 
H.1  General  
For the purposes of batch testing, acceptance sampling in accordance with B.2 to B.6 shall be applied.  
H.2  Sampling plans  
Sampling shall be in accordance with ISO 2859 -1 using double sampling plans and applying the switching 
procedures for normal, tightened and reduced inspection. Inspection level S -4 shall apply.  
H.3  Unit of product  
For Roman candles which are not supplied in primary packs, the unit of product on which the sample siz e is 
based shall be the individual Roman candle.  
For Roman candles which are supplied in primary packs, the unit of product for the purpose of sampling to 
assess compliance with the requirements for the Roman candles shall be an individual Roman candle and  the 
sample shall comprise the contents of the appropriate number of primary packs. The primary pack shall be the 
unit of product for the purpose of sampling to assess compliance with the requirements for the primary packs 
themselves and the appropriate nu mber of primary packs shall be sampled separately and examined for faults . 
H.4  Nonconformities  
 
Nonconformities shall be classed in accordance with Table B.1.  
Table H.1 – Summ ary of requirements and types of nonconfo rmity for batch testing 
Ref. Property Requi rement Test 
method  Type           of 
noncon- 
formitya 
4.1 Identification     of     means      of 
ignition See 4.1 Visual Major 
4.2 Attachment of protruding fuse Shall be secure 8.1 Major 
4.3.2  Orange   fuse  cover   over  initial 
fuse b Shall be in place Visual Major 
4.4 Mate rials of firework case See 4.4 Visual Critical 
4.5 Integ rity of firework case See 4.5 Visual Major 
5.1 Ignition of initial fuse See 5.1 
 
Shall be visible 8.3 
 
8.3 Major 
 
Major  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
29 5.1 Duration of initial fuse burning: 
 
Cate gory 2 Roman candles 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cate gory 3 Roman candles  
 
(3,0 s to 8,0 s) 
 
 
 
 
Extent of nonconformity: 
 
< 2,0 s or > 10,0 s 
 
 
 
 
≥ 2,0 s and < 3,0 s 
 
> 8,0 s and ≤ 10,0 s 
 
(5,0 s to 13,0  s) 
 
 
 
 
Extent of nonconformity: 
 
< 3,0 s or > 15,0 s 
 
 
 
 
≥ 3,0 s and < 5,0 s 
 
> 13,0 s and ≤ 15,0 s 8.3  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Critical 
 
 
 
 
Major 
 
Major 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Critical 
 
 
 
 
Major 
 
Major 
5.2 Invisible burning: 
 
Category 2 Roman candles  
 
 
 
 
Category 3 Roman candles   
 
≤ 5,0 s for any period 
 
 
 
 
≤ 10,0  s for any period 8.3  
 
Major 
 
 
 
 
Major 
5.3 Principal effects See 5.3 8.3 Minor 
5.4 Functioning All  pyrotechnic  units  of  the 
Roman    candle    shall    be 
ejected and function 8.3 Major 
5.6 Height of explosion or bursting 
of pyrotechnic units b 
 
Category 2 Roman candles  
 
Category 3 Roman candles   
 
 
 
≥ 8 m 
 
≥ 20 m 8.3  
 
 
Major 
 
Major 
5.7 Burning or incandescent matter See 5.7 8.3 Major 
Ref. Property  Requirement  Test 
method  Type           of  
noncon - 
formitya   falling to the ground     
5.7 Extinguishing of any flames  ≤ 60,0 s after the Roman 
candle  has  ceased   to 
function  8.3 Minor  
5.8 Stability  Shall  remain  upright  whilst  
functioning  8.3 Critical  KS 2 443-2:2018 
30         © KEBS 20 18— All rights reserved  5.9 Integrity  of  the  firework  case  
after functioning  Shall    have    no    additional  
holes or splits  8.3 Minor  
6 Integrity   of    primary   pack   or  
selection pack c  Pack       shall       completely  
enclose the Roman candle 
and shall have no holes or 
splits, except if they are 
intended to open the 
packaging or otherwise 
technically necessary  Visual  Major  
7 Labelling of Roman candle b  Shall be correctly stated and  
legible   and   on   a   single - 
colour background  Visual  Minor  
7 Labelling of primary pack d  Shall be correctly stated and  
legible   and   on   a   single - 
colour background  Visual  Minor  
7 Type sizes  See 7.6.2, 7.7.1 and 7.8, as  
appropriate  8.6 Minor  
 
H.5  Test  report  
 
The test report shall include at least the items marked with an asterisk in A.7 (with items m) to t), w) to bb) and 
dd) to hh) being given for each Roman candle tested); 
 
 
 
H.6  Accep tance or rejection of a batch 
 
H.6.1  Noncon forming units 
 
Acceptan ce or rejection of the batch shall be determined by the number of nonconforming units  of each type, 
in accordance with H.6.2 to B.6.5. 
 
Note:   Acceptance or rejection of the batch is determined by the number of nonconforming units of each type and not 
necessarily by the number of nonconformities found. 
 
H.6.2  Critical nonconforming units  
 
For critical nonconforming units an Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL) of 0,65  % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this 
criterion, it shall be rejected. Any critical nonconforming units shall not also be counted as major nonconforming units or 
minor nonconforming units.  
 
H.6.3  Major nonconforming units  
 
For major nonconformin g units an AQL of 2,5 % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this criterion, it shall be rejected. Any 
major nonconforming units shall not also be counted as minor nonconforming units.  
 
H.6.4  Minor nonconforming units  
 
For minor nonconforming units an AQL of 10 % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this criterion, it shall be rejected.  
 
BH.6.5  Roman candles supplied in primary packs or selection packs3)  
 
For Roman candles which are supplied in primary packs or selection packs3), the acceptance cri teria in H.6.2, B H.6.3 and 
H.6.4 shall be applied separately to the actual Roman candles and to the primary packs or selection packs3) (see H.3). 
 
 
 
 
 
  
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserve d                    
31 Annex J 
(normative)  
Method for determination of smouldering rate of cigarette  
 
J.1 Condition the cigarette for at least 16 h, immediately before the test, at a temperature of (23 ± 2) °C and 
a relative humidity of (50 ± 5) %.  
J.2 Mark the cigarette at 10 mm and 50 mm from the end to be lit. Ignite the cigarette and draw air through it 
until the tip glows brightly. Not less than 5 mm and not more than 8 mm of the cigarette shall be consumed in 
this operation. In draught -free air, impale the cigarette horizontally on a horizontal spike inserted not more than 
13 mm from  the unlit end. Record the time taken for the cigarette to smoulder from the 10 mm mark to the 50 
mm mark. 
© KEBS 20 18 — All rights reserved  1