New explosives check

People will soon have to pass a police check before buying certain types of explosives.

The Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma) has decided that from next month, a controlled substances licence will be required to purchase the materials.

Passing a criminal history check will be a key requirement.

The licence will apply to class-one explosives, which include detonators, charges, TNT and powerful fireworks.

The move is intended to ensure that only "fit and proper" people can legitimately possess such explosives, said Erma's hazardous substances compliance co-ordination manager, Simon Buckland.

Explosives are used in the mining, quarrying, roading and film-making industries.

Dr Buckland said smokeless powder would not be subject to the new law provided the user had a firearms licence.

Inspector Marc Paynter, manager of the police specialist search group and bomb data centre, said the force was pleased with Erma's decision.