prEN 16263
(Main)Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles
Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles
This document specifies requirements for the construction, performances, minimum labelling and mandatory instructions for use of other pyrotechnic articles of the following generic types:
- flares;
- flash devices;
- gas generators;
- heaters;
- other cartridges;
- pyromechanical devices;
- pyrotechnic actuated dispersers;
- rockets and rocket motors;
- semi-finished pyrotechnic articles;
- smoke/aerosol generators;
- sound emitters.
This document does not apply to pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, ignition devices and cartridges for powder actuated tools (PAT).
The following standards apply to the excluded articles:
- EN ISO 14451 1, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 1: Terminology (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 2, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 2: Test methods (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 3, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 3: Labelling (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 4, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 4: Requirements and categorization for micro gas generators (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 5, Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 5: Requirements and categorization for airbag gas generators (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 6, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 6: Requirements and categorization for airbag modules (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 7, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 7: Requirements and categorization for seatbelt pretensioners (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 8, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 8: Requirements and categorization for igniters (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 9, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 9: Requirements and categorization for actuators (Under preparation)
- EN ISO 14451 10, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 10: Requirements and categorization for semi-finished products (preparation)
- EN 16264, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Cartridges for powder actuated tools (Under preparation)
- EN 16265, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Ignition devices (Under preparation)
Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Sonstige pyrotechnische Gegenstände
Dieses Dokument legt Anforderungen an den Aufbau, die Leistung, die Mindestkennzeichnung und die verbindlichen Anweisungen für die Verwendung anderer pyrotechnischer Gegenstände der folgenden Gegenstandstypen fest:
Fackeln;
Blitzkartuschen;
Gasgeneratoren;
Aufheizer;
andere Patronen;
pyromechanische Geräte;
pyrotechnische Flüssigkeitszerstäuber;
Raketen und Raketenmotoren;
pyrotechnische Halbfertigerzeugnise;
Rauch-/Aerosol-Generatoren;
Schallerzeuger.
Dieses Dokument gilt nicht für pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge, Zündvorrichtungen und Kartuschen für pulverbetriebene Werkzeuge (PAT).
Für die ausgeschlossenen Gegenstände gelten die folgenden Normen:
EN ISO 14451 1, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 1: Terminologie (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 2, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 2: Prüfverfahren (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 3, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 3: Kennzeichnung (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 4, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 4: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Mikrogasgeneratoren (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 5, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 5: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Airbaggasgeneratoren (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 6, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 6: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Airbag-Modulen (In Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 7, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 7: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Gurtstraffern (In Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 8, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 8: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Anzündern (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 9, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 9: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Aktuatoren (in Vorbereitung)
EN ISO 14451 10, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Pyrotechnische Gegenstände für Fahrzeuge — Teil 10: Anforderungen und Kategorisierung von Halbfertigerzeugnissen (Vorbereitung)
EN 16264, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Sonstige pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Kartuschen für kartuschenbetriebene handgehaltene Werkzeuge (In Vorbereitung)
EN 16265, Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Sonstige pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Anzündmittel (In Vorbereitung)
Articles pyrotechniques - Autres articles pyrotechniques
Le présent document spécifie les exigences relatives à la construction, les performances, l’étiquetage minimal et le mode d’emploi obligatoire pour les autres articles pyrotechniques des types génériques suivants:
- torches et flammes;
- cartouches flash;
- générateurs de gaz;
- réchauffeurs/générateurs thermiques;
- autres cartouches;
- pyromécanismes;
- disperseurs actionnés par pyrotechnie;
- fusées et moteurs fusées;
- articles pyrotechniques semi finis;
- fumigènes/générateurs d’aérosol;
- émetteurs sonores.
Le présent document ne s’applique pas aux articles pyrotechniques pour les véhicules, ni aux dispositifs de mise à feu ni aux cartouches pour outils actionnés par poudre.
Les normes suivantes concernent les articles non couverts:
- EN ISO 14451 1, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 1: Terminologie (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 2, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 2: Méthodes d’essai (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 3, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 3: Étiquetage (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 4, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 4: Exigences relatives aux microgénérateurs de gaz et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 5, Articles pyrotechniques — Partie 5: Exigences relatives aux générateurs de gaz de sac gonflable et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 6, Articles pyrotechniques — Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules — Partie 6: Exigences relatives aux générateurs de gaz de sac gonflable et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 7, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 7: Exigences relatives aux prétensionneurs de ceinture et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 8, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 8: Exigences relatives aux allumeurs et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 9, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 9: Exigences relatives aux actionneurs et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN ISO 14451 10, Articles pyrotechniques - Articles pyrotechniques pour véhicules - Partie 10: Exigences relatives aux produits semi finis et leur classement en catégories (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN 16264, Articles pyrotechniques - Autres articles pyrotechniques - Cartouches pour outils à charge propulsive (En cours d’élaboration)
- EN 16265, Articles pyrotechniques - Autres articles pyrotechniques - Dispositifs de mise à feu (En cours d’élaboration)
Pirotehnični izdelki - Drugi pirotehnični izdelki
Ta dokument določa zahteve za konstrukcijo, zmogljivosti, minimalno označevanje in obvezna navodila za uporabo drugih pirotehničnih izdelkov naslednjih generičnih vrst:
- bliskavice (flares);
- bliskovne naprave;
- plinski generatorji;
- grelniki;
- drugi naboji;
- piromehanske naprave;
- pirotehnično aktivirani razpršilci;
- rakete in raketni motorji;
- polizdelani pirotehnični izdelki;
- generatorji dima/aerosola;
- zvočni oddajniki.
Ta dokument se ne uporablja za pirotehnične izdelke za vozila, vžigalne naprave in naboje za orodja na smodniški pogon (PAT).
Za izključene izdelke veljajo naslednji standardi:
- EN ISO 14451 1, Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila - 1. del: Terminologija (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 2, Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila - 2. del: Preskusne metode (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 3, Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila - 3. del: Označevanje (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 4, Pirotehnični izdelki - Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila - 4. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za mikro plinske generatorje (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 5, Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 5. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za plinske generatorje zračnih blazin (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 6, Pirotehnični izdelki – Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 6. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za module zračnih blazin (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 7, Pirotehnični izdelki – Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 7. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za zategovalnike varnostnih pasov (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 8, Pirotehnični izdelki – Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 8. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za vžigalnike (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 9, Pirotehnični izdelki – Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 9. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za aktuatorje (v pripravi)
- EN ISO 14451 10, Pirotehnični izdelki – Pirotehnični izdelki za vozila – 10. del: Zahteve in kategorizacija za polizdelke (v pripravi)
- EN 16264, Pirotehnični izdelki – Drugi pirotehnični izdelki – Naboji za orodja na smodniški pogon (v pripravi)
- EN 16265, Pirotehnični izdelki – Drugi pirotehnični izdelki – Vžigalne naprave (v pripravi)
General Information
- Status
- Not Published
- Publication Date
- 21-Mar-2027
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 212 - Fireworks
- Drafting Committee
- CEN/TC 212/WG 5 - Other pyrotechnic articles, category P1 and P2
- Current Stage
- 4020 - Submission to enquiry - Enquiry
- Start Date
- 02-Apr-2026
- Due Date
- 24-Feb-2026
- Completion Date
- 02-Apr-2026
Overview
prEN 16263 is a draft European Standard developed by CEN, outlining requirements for the construction, performance, labelling, and use instructions of "other pyrotechnic articles" that do not fall under pyrotechnics for vehicles, ignition devices, or cartridges for powder actuated tools. This standard promotes safety, consistency, and regulatory compliance for a wide range of pyrotechnic devices. By consolidating requirements from several earlier standards into a single harmonized document, prEN 16263 streamlines guidance for manufacturers and stakeholders working with specialized pyrotechnic products.
Key Topics
prEN 16263 covers the following central subjects:
- Generic types of pyrotechnic articles: Including flares, flash devices, gas generators, heaters, other cartridges, pyromechanical devices, pyrotechnic actuated dispersers, rockets and rocket motors, semi-finished pyrotechnic articles, smoke/aerosol generators, and sound emitters.
- Construction and performance requirements: Addressing product safety, resistance to environmental factors (moisture, temperature, mechanical impacts), toxicity, and the integrity of the article after functioning.
- Classification and testing procedures: Detailed categorization criteria, type and batch testing, and use-specific test methods to assure performance and safety.
- Minimum labelling and mandatory instructions: Stipulating what must appear on product labels, such as article type, registration number, intended use, age limits, safe usage instructions, net explosive content, and manufacturer/importer details.
- Exclusions: Specific pyrotechnic devices, such as those for vehicles, ignition devices, and powder actuated tool cartridges, are covered by related standards (see below).
Applications
prEN 16263 applies to a diverse set of pyrotechnic devices in sectors where precise performance and safety compliance are essential, including:
- Signaling and safety equipment: Flares and smoke generators for marine, aviation, emergency, and industrial safety signaling.
- Special effects and entertainment: Flash devices and sound emitters for use in concerts, film production, and live performances.
- Aerospace and defense: Rockets, rocket motors, and pyromechanical actuators in testing, propulsion, and deployment systems.
- Industrial processes: Pyrotechnic actuated dispersers, gas generators, and heaters in process engineering, laboratory research, and material science.
Attention to labeling and performance ensures these articles are safely integrated into their intended operations, with end-users clearly informed of the product functions and hazards. The requirements are valuable for manufacturers, importers, safety professionals, and compliance officers, aiding their conformity assessments and supporting access to European and global markets.
Related Standards
For products and applications outside the direct scope of prEN 16263, consider referring to these related standards:
- EN ISO 14451 series: Deals with pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, such as airbag modules, seatbelt pretensioners, and automotive igniters. Multiple parts are under preparation.
- EN 16264: Covers cartridges for powder actuated tools (under development).
- EN 16265: Governs ignition devices for other pyrotechnic articles (under development).
- General references to testing, safety signs, labelling, and risk management in applicable ISO and EN standards as outlined in prEN 16263's normative references.
Practical Value
By following prEN 16263, organizations benefit from:
- Enhanced safety and reliability of pyrotechnic articles
- Consistent European market access through harmonized requirements
- Clear labelling and user guidance for improved end-user safety
- Streamlined conformity assessment and regulatory compliance
Overall, prEN 16263 serves as an essential reference for ensuring quality, safety, and compliance across the spectrum of specialized pyrotechnic articles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
prEN 16263 is a draft published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles". This standard covers: This document specifies requirements for the construction, performances, minimum labelling and mandatory instructions for use of other pyrotechnic articles of the following generic types: - flares; - flash devices; - gas generators; - heaters; - other cartridges; - pyromechanical devices; - pyrotechnic actuated dispersers; - rockets and rocket motors; - semi-finished pyrotechnic articles; - smoke/aerosol generators; - sound emitters. This document does not apply to pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, ignition devices and cartridges for powder actuated tools (PAT). The following standards apply to the excluded articles: - EN ISO 14451 1, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 1: Terminology (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 2, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 2: Test methods (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 3, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 3: Labelling (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 4, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 4: Requirements and categorization for micro gas generators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 5, Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 5: Requirements and categorization for airbag gas generators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 6, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 6: Requirements and categorization for airbag modules (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 7, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 7: Requirements and categorization for seatbelt pretensioners (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 8, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 8: Requirements and categorization for igniters (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 9, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 9: Requirements and categorization for actuators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 10, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 10: Requirements and categorization for semi-finished products (preparation) - EN 16264, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Cartridges for powder actuated tools (Under preparation) - EN 16265, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Ignition devices (Under preparation)
This document specifies requirements for the construction, performances, minimum labelling and mandatory instructions for use of other pyrotechnic articles of the following generic types: - flares; - flash devices; - gas generators; - heaters; - other cartridges; - pyromechanical devices; - pyrotechnic actuated dispersers; - rockets and rocket motors; - semi-finished pyrotechnic articles; - smoke/aerosol generators; - sound emitters. This document does not apply to pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, ignition devices and cartridges for powder actuated tools (PAT). The following standards apply to the excluded articles: - EN ISO 14451 1, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 1: Terminology (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 2, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 2: Test methods (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 3, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 3: Labelling (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 4, Pyrotechnic articles - Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles - Part 4: Requirements and categorization for micro gas generators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 5, Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 5: Requirements and categorization for airbag gas generators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 6, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 6: Requirements and categorization for airbag modules (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 7, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 7: Requirements and categorization for seatbelt pretensioners (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 8, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 8: Requirements and categorization for igniters (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 9, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 9: Requirements and categorization for actuators (Under preparation) - EN ISO 14451 10, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 10: Requirements and categorization for semi-finished products (preparation) - EN 16264, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Cartridges for powder actuated tools (Under preparation) - EN 16265, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Ignition devices (Under preparation)
prEN 16263 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 71.100.30 - Explosives. Pyrotechnics and fireworks. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
prEN 16263 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2013/29/EU; Standardization Mandates: M/583. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
prEN 16263 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-junij-2026
Pirotehnični izdelki - Drugi pirotehnični izdelki
Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles
Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Sonstige pyrotechnische Gegenstände
Articles pyrotechniques - Autres articles pyrotechniques
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 16263
ICS:
71.100.30 Eksplozivi. Pirotehnika in Explosives. Pyrotechnics and
ognjemeti fireworks
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
April 2026
ICS 71.100.30
English Version
Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles
Articles pyrotechniques - Autres articles Pyrotechnische Gegenstände - Sonstige pyrotechnische
pyrotechniques Gegenstände
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 212.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 16263:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
3.1 General terms . 9
3.2 Technical terms . 9
3.3 Terms related to generic types .15
3.4 Terms related to subtypes .17
4 Generic types .21
5 Subtypes .21
6 Categorization criteria .22
6.1 General .22
6.2 Criteria for categorization .22
6.2.1 General .22
6.2.2 General criteria .23
6.2.3 Specific criteria [Functioning step of Figure A.1] .24
6.2.4 Specific criteria table [criteria versus generic type] .28
7 General and safety requirements .32
7.1 Incompatible and forbidden substances .32
7.2 Safe disposal .32
7.3 Means of ignition .32
7.4 Safety features .33
7.5 Toxicity .33
7.6 Detonative explosives .34
8 Performance requirements .34
8.1 Verification of performance .34
8.2 Verification of design .34
8.3 Verification of labelling and instructions for use .34
8.4 Resistance to mechanical impact .35
8.5 Loose pyrotechnic composition after mechanical conditioning and mechanical impact
test .35
8.6 Resistance to moisture .35
8.7 Resistance to high and low temperatures .36
8.8 Integrity after functioning .36
9 Requirements for semi-finished pyrotechnic articles and rocket motors .36
9.1 Semi-finished pyrotechnic articles .36
9.2 Rocket motors .36
10 Primary pack .36
11 Type testing .36
11.1 General .36
11.2 Number of items to be tested .37
11.2.1 General .37
11.2.2 Additional items for specific tests .38
11.3 Number of primary packs to be examined . 38
11.4 Test report . 39
12 Batch testing . 39
12.1 General . 39
12.2 Sampling plans. 39
12.3 Unit of product . 40
12.4 Nonconformities . 40
12.5 Labelling . 42
12.6 Test report . 42
12.7 Acceptance or rejection of a batch . 42
12.7.1 Nonconforming units . 42
12.7.2 Critical nonconforming units . 42
12.7.3 Major nonconforming units . 42
12.7.4 Minor nonconforming units . 43
12.7.5 Pyrotechnic articles supplied in primary packs. 43
13 Test methods . 43
13.1 Apparatus . 43
13.1.1 General . 43
13.1.2 Test area . 43
13.1.3 Timing device . 43
13.1.4 Calliper . 43
13.1.5 Ruler . 44
13.1.6 Measuring tape . 44
13.1.7 Wind speed meter . 44
13.1.8 Balance . 44
13.1.9 Temperature chamber . 44
13.1.10 Sound level meter . 44
13.1.11 Shock apparatus . 44
13.1.12 Drop-test apparatus . 44
13.1.13 Goniometer . 45
13.1.14 Devices for measuring of effect height . 45
13.1.15 Devices for measuring thrust . 45
13.1.16 Abrasive sheet . 45
13.1.17 Witness screen . 45
13.1.18 Transparent type size sheet . 46
13.1.19 High speed video equipment . 47
13.1.20 Magnifying equipment . 47
13.1.21 Further test apparatus . 47
13.2 Test procedures . 47
13.2.1 General . 47
13.2.2 Construction . 47
13.2.3 Design verification . 47
13.2.4 Angle of ascent and height of effects . 48
13.2.5 Measurement of sound pressure level . 49
13.2.6 Timing measurement . 49
13.2.7 Mechanical conditioning . 50
13.2.8 Mechanical impact test (Drop test) . 50
13.2.9 Thermal conditioning . 51
13.2.10 Function test. 51
13.2.11 Measurement of thrust . 53
13.2.12 Resistance to ignition by an abrasive surface . 53
13.2.13 Further tests . 54
13.2.14 Measuring of labelling .57
13.2.15 Measuring of the hazard level of fragments .57
13.2.16 Water immersion test .59
13.2.17 Use of detonative explosives .59
13.2.18 Visual examination .63
14 Minimum labelling requirements .64
14.1 General .64
14.2 Information on manufacturer or importer .64
14.3 Type of article, category, registration number and intended use .64
14.3.1 Type of article .64
14.3.2 Name of article .64
14.3.3 Category and registration number .64
14.3.4 Marking and identification number of the notified body .65
14.3.5 Product, batch or serial number .65
14.3.6 Intended use .65
14.4 Age limits .65
14.5 Instructions for use .65
14.6 Safe firing distance and hazard zone .67
14.7 Net explosive content .67
14.8 Means of ignition .67
14.9 Safe/arm device .67
14.10 Direction of effect .67
14.11 ‘Use by’ date .67
14.12 Printing .68
14.13 Marking of very small items .68
Annex A (normative) Flow chart .69
Annex B (normative) Value of the drag coefficient .76
Annex C (normative) Calculation of the thermal dose .77
C.1 Method of calculation .77
C.2 Typical values of the enthalpy of combustion .78
C.3 Radiation part of the thermal flux .78
C.4 Alternative criterion when q(t) is constant or can be approximated by a constant law
of time .78
Annex D (informative) Mechanical conditioning (Shock apparatus) .80
Annex E (informative) Drop test (Mechanical impact test) .83
Annex F (informative) Procedures for calculation of heights .84
Annex G (informative) Determination of the duration of accelerated ageing test to
demonstrate the correct functioning at the 'use by' date .88
Annex H (normative) Apparatus for the testing of sensitiveness of the pyrotechnic
composition to electrostatic discharge .91
H.1 Electrostatic energy supply .91
H.2 Test cell assembly .92
H.3 Preparation of the test sample .92
H.4 Conditioning of the test sample and test conditions .92
H.5 Evaluation of spark gap energy .93
H.6 Reporting of results . 93
H.7 Test report . 93
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
safety requirements of Directive 2013/29/EU aimed to be covered . 94
Bibliography . 96
European foreword
This document (prEN 16263:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 212
“Pyrotechnic articles”, the secretariat of which is held by NEN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 16263-1:2015, EN 16263-2:2015, EN 16263-3:2015,
EN 16263-4:2015 and EN 16263-5:2015.
EN 16263-3:2015, EN 16263-4:2015 and EN 16263-5:2015:
— the 5 parts have been merged;
— the Annex ZA has been updated.
NOTE Words in italics (apart from document titles) are defined in Clause 3 (Terms and definitions)
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this
document.
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements for the construction, performances, minimum labelling and
mandatory instructions for use of other pyrotechnic articles of the following generic types:
— flares;
— flash devices;
— gas generators;
— heaters;
— other cartridges;
— pyromechanical devices;
— pyrotechnic actuated dispersers;
— rockets and rocket motors;
— semi-finished pyrotechnic articles;
— smoke/aerosol generators;
— sound emitters.
This document does not apply to pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, ignition devices and cartridges for
powder actuated tools (PAT).
The following standards apply to the excluded articles:
— EN ISO 14451-1, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 1: Terminology
(Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-2, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 2: Test methods
(Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-3, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 3: Labelling (Under
preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-4, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 4: Requirements and
categorization for micro gas generators (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-5, Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 5: Requirements and categorization for
airbag gas generators (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-6, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 6: Requirements and
categorization for airbag modules (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-7, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 7: Requirements and
categorization for seatbelt pretensioners (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-8, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 8: Requirements and
categorization for igniters (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-9, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 9: Requirements and
categorization for actuators (Under preparation)
— EN ISO 14451-10, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 10: Requirements
and categorization for semi-finished products (preparation)
— EN 16264, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Cartridges for powder actuated tools
(Under preparation)
— EN 16265, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Ignition devices (Under preparation)
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements 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.
EN 13631-3:2025, Explosives for civil uses - Explosives for blasting, boosters and explosive substances —
Part 3: Verification of the insensitiveness to friction of explosives for blasting and explosive substances
EN 13631-4:2025, Explosives for civil uses — Explosives for blasting, boosters and explosive substances —
Part 4: Verification of the insensitiveness to impact of explosives for blasting and explosive substances
EN 13763-1:2025, Explosives for civil uses — Detonators and detonating cord relays - Part 1: Requirements
EN 16265:—, Pyrotechnic articles — Other pyrotechnic articles — Ignition devices
EN 61672-1:2013, Electroacoustics — Sound level meters — Part 1: Specifications (IEC 61672 1:2013)
EN ISO 13385-1:2019, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) — Dimensional measuring equipment —
Part 1: Design and metrological characteristics of callipers (ISO 13385-1:2019)
EN ISO 13385-2:2020, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) — Dimensional measuring equipment —
Part 2: Design and metrological characteristics of calliper depth gauges (ISO 13385-2:2020)
EN ISO 7010:2020, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Registered safety signs
(ISO 7010:2019, Corrected version 2020-06)
ISO 565:1990, Test sieves — Metal wire cloth, perforated metal plate and electroformed sheet — Nominal
sizes of openings
ISO 2859-1:2026, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes — Part 1: Sampling schemes indexed by
acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot inspection
ISO 3864-1:2011, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 1: Design principles for safety
signs and safety markings
ISO 6344-3:2021, Coated abrasives — Determination and designation of grain size distribution — Part 3:
Microgrit sizes P240 to P5000
Under preparation, current stage: prEN 16265:2025.
As impacted by EN ISO 7010:2020/A1:2020; EN ISO 7010:2020/A2:2022; EN ISO 7010:2020/A3:2022; EN ISO
7010:2020/A4:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A5:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A6:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A7:2024;
EN ISO 7010:2020/A8:2024.
ISO 7000:2019, Graphical symbols for use on equipment — Registered symbols
ISO 21948:2001, Coated abrasives — Plain sheets
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1 General terms
3.1.1
generic type
set of articles with a common, very general, design feature and/or with a common characteristic effect
3.1.2
subtype
set of articles within a generic type with specific design features
3.1.3
technical documentation provided with the article
technical information about the article to be provided for EU-type examination
3.1.4
trade name
designation of an individual item from a particular supplier
3.1.5
type
sample representative of the production envisaged
3.2 Technical terms
3.2.1
acceptance quality limit
AQL
quality level that is the worst tolerable process average when a continuing series of lots is submitted for
acceptance sampling
3.2.2
all-fire level
minimum level of the initiation input, needed to ensure that an igniter or an ignition device initiates
within a given time frame
Note 1 to entry: All fire level is a characteristic given in the instructions for use of every igniter. It is generally
associated with a probability level (generally 99,9 % at 95 % confidence level) within a specified time frame
(e.g. 50 ms).
Note 2 to entry: Examples of initiation input are: an electrical current in Amperes, a mechanical force in Newtons
and an optical energy in Watts.
3.2.3
ancillary equipment
device which does not form part of a pyrotechnic article, but which is supplied with it and is required in
order that the article functions safely and correctly when used according to the instructions for use
3.2.4
batch test
test performed on a sample of products taken at random from a production batch to check compliance
with Clause 12
3.2.5
black powder
intimate mixture of charcoal and sodium nitrate or potassium nitrate with or without sulphur
3.2.6
burning rate
mass of consumed pyrotechnic composition of the effect charge in grams divided by the effect time in
seconds
3.2.7
combustive behaviour
self-sustained chemical reaction that propagates at a velocity lower than the sound velocity of the
reacting effect charge
3.2.8
critical nonconformity
nonconformity that judgement and experience indicate is likely to result in hazardous or unsafe
conditions
Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class A nonconformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.2.9
critical nonconforming unit
nonconforming unit with one or more critical nonconformities, with or without major or minor
nonconformities
3.2.10
debris
rigid or resilient part of a pyrotechnic article which remains after it has ceased to function
3.2.11
delay element
pyrotechnic device designed in such a manner that it generates a delay in the transmission of fire in a
pyrotechnic train
Note 1 to entry: Delay fuses are specific examples of such pyrotechnic delays.
3.2.12
detonation
reaction which propagates through an explosive at supersonic velocity in the reacting explosive
3.2.13
detonative explosive
substance or mixture of substances which can undergo a fast-internal decomposition reaction leading to
a detonation in normal use
3.2.14
disposal
destroying the article or the pyrotechnic substances it contains or otherwise rendering the article
harmless and, for end users, includes arranging the safe return of the article to the competent body
specified in the instructions for use
3.2.15
effect charge
pyrotechnic composition which, upon functioning, will burn or explode to produce the principal effects of
a pyrotechnic article
3.2.16
effect time
total duration of effect from its emergence until it entirely vanishes
3.2.17
electrostatic discharge
ESD
sudden and momentary electric current that flows between two objects at different electrical potentials
3.2.18
external effect
effect that develops outside the article when functioning
Note 1 to entry: External effect does not include the external surface temperature of the article.
3.2.19
flash composition
inherent mixture of a metal and an oxidizer
Note 1 to entry: This is usually perchlorate or nitrate metal based.
3.2.20
friction head
ignition head designed to be ignited by friction
3.2.21
gross mass
total mass of a pyrotechnic article not including any ancillary equipment
3.2.22
hazard zone
space where persons or property could suffer significant harm from the intended or likely unintended
effects of the article
3.2.23
igniter
article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) used to initiate combustion or deflagration, as defined in
EN 16265:—
Note 1 to entry: It may be actuated by chemical, electrical, optical or mechanical means.
3.2.24
ignition device
pyrotechnic device which is used to start and/or transmit ignition of/to pyrotechnic compositions, as
defined in EN 16265:—
3.2.25
ignition head
initial fuse consisting of pyrotechnic composition only
3.2.26
incompatible substances
substances or materials that react together resulting in unsafe conditions
3.2.27
intended fragmentation
intended production of fragments by the explosive reaction of the pyrotechnic compositions included in a
pyrotechnic article
3.2.28
leading wires
electrical wires attached to the igniter to lead the electric firing current to it
3.2.29
leading optical fibre
optical fibre attached to the igniter to lead the optical firing energy to it
3.2.30
life saving device
pyrotechnic article that is intended to protect human life in distress situations and exposure to harmful
conditions and/or give support to rescue operations
Note 1 to entry: Such articles may include different generic types as defined in Clauses 3.3 and 3.4 (e.g. flares,
actuators, pyrotechnic actuated dispenser…).
3.2.31
major nonconformity
nonconformity, other than a critical nonconformity, which is likely to result in failure, to reduce materially
the usability of the pyrotechnic article, or to increase the potential hazard
Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class B nonconformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.2.32
major nonconforming unit
nonconforming unit with one or more major nonconformities, with or without minor nonconformities,
but with no critical nonconformities
3.2.33
minor nonconformity
nonconformity that is not likely to reduce materially the usability of the pyrotechnic article
Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class C nonconformity’ in ISO 2859-1:2026.
3.2.34
minor nonconforming unit
nonconforming unit with one or more minor nonconformities, but with no critical or major
nonconformities
3.2.35
misfire
incomplete functioning or no functioning of a pyrotechnic article after application of initiation stimulus
3.2.36
net explosive content
NEC
total mass of pyrotechnic compositions in a pyrotechnic article
3.2.37
no-fire level
maximum level of the initiation input that can be applied without causing an igniter to function within a
specified time period
Note 1 to entry: No fire level can be an electrical current in Amperes, a mechanical force in Newton or an optical
energy in Watts.
Note 2 to entry: No-fire level is a characteristic given in the instructions for use of every igniter. It is generally
associated with a probability level (generally 99,9 % at 95 % confidence level) within a specified time frame
(e.g. 50 ms).
3.2.38
nonconforming unit
pyrotechnic article with one or more nonconformities
3.2.39
nonconformity
non-fulfilment of a requirement
[SOURCE: EN ISO 9000:2015, 3.6.9 [1] Note 1 to entry has been deleted.]
3.2.40
packaging
wrapping in which an item is presented for transport, storage and/or sale
3.2.41
powder actuated tool
PAT
tool with a piston powered by the hot combustion gases from a cartridge and comprising powder
actuated fixing and hard marking tools
[SOURCE: EN 15895:2025, 3.1 [2]]
3.2.42
primary pack
smallest package of one or more pyrotechnic articles with the same registration number, offered for retail
sale as a single unit
3.2.43
principal effect
main effect a pyrotechnic article is designed to produce, as defined by its technical specification
3.2.44
projected fragment
debris projected while functioning
3.2.45
projected frontal area
two-dimensional area of a fragment or part of an article obtained by geometrically projecting its shape
on to a plane that is perpendicular to the direction of its motion
Note 1 to entry: In ordinary terms, it can be considered as the “shadow” of such a fragment or part perpendicularly
to the direction of its motion.
3.2.46
personal protective equipment
equipment that has to be worn by exposed people in the hazard zone
3.247
pyrotechnic component
component of a pyrotechnic article which contains one or more pyrotechnic compositions
3.2.48
pyrotechnic composition
explosive substance or mixture of explosive substances which is designed, on ignition or initiation, to
produce heat, light, sound, gas or smoke or a combination of such effects through self-sustained
exothermic chemical reactions
3.2.49
pyrotechnic operation
operation which leads to the intentional direct application of a mechanical, thermal and/or chemical
stress on the pyrotechnic composition without intending to ignite or initiate the article at the time the
stress is applied
3.2.50
pyrotechnic train
set of pyrotechnic components which are functionally linked and, after an initial input of energy, function
in a designed sequence to transmit, enhance and/or distribute ignition to one or more other pyrotechnic
components
3.2.51
remote effect
effect obtained by propulsion or projection beyond the safe firing distance and generating hazards by the
functioning of the article
Note 1 to entry: Examples of articles that are propelled are hand-held rockets and propelled signals. Examples of
articles that project are signal cartridges and simulation devices.
3.2.52
safe/arm device
mechanical device which is intended to interrupt the propagation of the firing signal within the article
when it is in its “safe” position and to allow the propagation when in “arm” position
3.2.53
safe firing distance
minimum distance between the user and the place where the pyrotechnic article is set and fired
3.2.54
secondary effect
effect other than the principal effect
3.2.55
secondary explosive
detonative explosive that can only be initiated by a detonation and not by flames, sparks or, more
generally, means that produce heat
3.2.56
type test
test performed on a sample of products, representative of the production envisaged,
Note 1 to entry: The definition is in line with Directive 2013/29/EU [8] in order to demonstrate their compliance
with the Essential Safety Requirements of Annex I and its relevant provisions.
Note 2 to entry: The successful submission to type tests leads to the attribution of an EU-type examination
certificate.
3.2.57
‘use by’ date
latest date by which an article may be used if it is to safely exhibit the performance characteristics
described in its technical specifications
3.3 Terms related to generic types
3.3.1
flare
article consisting of a light and/or radiated heat producing pyrotechnic composition, with or without a
casing, with or without means of ignition
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.
3.3.2
flash device
article consisting of a casing and flash powder all assembled in one piece, with or without a means of
ignition
Note 1 to entry: Flash powder is not submitted to 7.6 and 13.2.17.
3.3.3
gas generator
article consisting of a pyrotechnic composition designed to generate gases, with or without a casing, with
or without an ignition device
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of gas generation is higher than
15 ms.
3.3.4
heater
article containing a pyrotechnic composition designed to generate heat
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.
3.3.5
other cartridge
article comprising a cup containing means of ignition, with or without projecting charge and effect to be
projected, and designed to be fired from a device having the means of holding the cartridge and providing
the stimulus to function the means of ignition
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher
than 15 ms.
Note 2 to entry: Such article excludes flash device.
3.3.6
pyromechanical device
article consisting of mechanically mobile parts which are driven by the reaction of a pyrotechnic
composition, with no or limited effect outside the device
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.
3.3.7
pyrotechnic actuated disperser
article containing a charge of pyrotechnic composition or unit which ejects or disperses a liquid, gel or
solid particles without forming aerosol as its principal effect
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher
than 15 ms.
3.3.8
rocket and rocket motor
respectively, article which is propelled by one or more rocket motors and which delivers a given rising
height without exhibiting a random trajectory, and article delivering a given thrust and consisting of a
pyrotechnic composition, generally a solid propellant, either contained or not in a casing fitted with one
or more nozzles
Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is
smaller than 15
...




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