Pyrotechnics on board: RD 339/2021 requirements

2026-09-15 · Marine Point

Pyrotechnics remain an essential item of safety equipment on board: they make it possible to signal an emergency visibly when other means are insufficient or fail. In the Balearic Islands, where many trips take place between islands, coves and areas with variable coverage, it is advisable to check the equipment before the high season and not leave this check until the day of departure. RD 339/2021 updated the safety equipment required on recreational craft and sets out, among other aspects, the minimum pyrotechnic signals according to the navigation zone.

What changed with RD 339/2021

Royal Decree 339/2021 regulates the safety and pollution-prevention equipment applicable to recreational craft. Regarding pyrotechnics, Article 9 sets out the minimum quantities of hand flares, red parachute rockets and floating smoke signals that each craft must carry according to its navigation zone.

The regulation makes it clear that it is not enough simply to carry signals on board: they must be approved and within their expiry date. An expired signal should not be considered suitable for meeting the statutory equipment requirements or for dealing with an emergency. In addition, poor stowage can damage the material or make it difficult to access when it is most needed.

Pyrotechnics required by navigation zone

These are the quantities shown in the official table in Article 9 of RD 339/2021:

Before buying or replacing equipment, we recommend confirming our craft's authorised zone and checking which items we already carry. In our life-saving equipment, lifejackets, first-aid kits and liferafts category, you can find related equipment to prepare for the check properly.

Practical check before sailing

We check the expiry date of every signal one by one, not just that of the box. We also check that they remain dry, protected from knocks and clearly identifiable, and that they are kept in a place known and accessible to the crew. They should not be stored near heat sources or in compartments where they may be exposed to persistent dampness.

Pyrotechnics do not replace distress communications or responsible passage planning. They are an additional layer within a complete safety kit. For this reason, it is advisable to explain on board where the equipment is kept and remember that it must only be handled in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and when there is a genuine need.

Expired: do not use them or throw them away with household waste

Expired pyrotechnic signals require specific disposal. We should not activate them to “test” them, dismantle them or put them in ordinary rubbish. If we have any doubts about their removal, replacement or the appropriate equipment for our zone, it is preferable to consult professionals before sailing. You can contact our team for guidance in preparing the check, especially if you are renewing the equipment before the busiest months in the islands.