Bodyshops are being advised of an important change in regulations concerning licences for explosives.

Most bodyshops pay a small fee each year for the licence in order to be allowed to store and fit the small charges used by airbag systems. However, repairers preparing to renew their licences this month have begun receiving letters from their local councils and fire services, which advise them that this may be unnecessary now.

Although bodyshops are still required to observe all health and safety guidelines concerning the storage and use of explosives, they are now permitted to store up to 5kg – equivalent to approximately 50 airbags – without being required to obtain a licence.