COMPANIES holding firework displays this year are reminded that they must follow legal guidelines.

Under the Health and Safety at work Act (1974), any company holding a non-domestic fireworks display, from a local pub to large hotel, or a corporate event, has a duty of care to both employees and anyone "affected by" the event.

Trevor Davies, senior health and safety consultant at Croner Consulting, said: "Non-domestic displays, whether it be a private corporate event, or one that is open to the public, present a risk to spectators, nearby residents, pets and wildlife.

"Businesses are responsible for identifying and minimising the risk.

"Should an incident occur, they are open to prosecution under health and safety legislation."