Language selection

Search


Buying, selling and storing blank cartridges for tools

Blank cartridges for tools (formerly called power device cartridges) are explosive cartridges used in power devices such as powder-actuated tools (nail guns).

The following guidance is for anyone involved with blank cartridges for tools. For situations not covered here, including exemptions and conditions, consult the Explosives Regulations. Blank cartridges for tools are classified under the Explosives Regulations as Type C.2).

Buying blank cartridges for tools

You are permitted to buy blank cartridges for tools if you are 18 or older unless otherwise exempted by the Explosive Regulations.

Storing blank cartridges for tools

Storage requirements for users

You are permitted to store blank cartridges for tools in a dwelling (such as a house, apartment or cottage) or in a storage unit.

Dwelling

You must store the blank cartridges for tools away from flammable substances and sources of ignition. You must protect them from theft and ensure that they can be accessed only by people you have authorized.

Storage unit

  • The storage unit must be in a dry place, away from flammable substances and sources of ignition.
  • The storage unit must prevent unauthorized access and protect the contents from weather.
  • If the storage unit is a container, it must not block exit in case of fire.
  • If the storage unit is not a container, all exits must be kept clear.
  • Any shelving in the storage unit must be made from a non-sparking material (for example, wood or painted metal).
  • Only blank cartridges for tools are permitted to be stored in the unit.
  • The storage unit must be monitored when it is unlocked.
  • The storage unit must be kept clean, dry, organized and free of grit.
  • Any spill, leakage or other contamination must be cleaned up immediately.
  • You must take steps to minimize the risk of fire in or near the storage unit.
  • You must post a sign that displays the words “Danger — Fire Hazard/Risque d’incendie” in letters at least 10 centimetres high on the storage unit in a clearly visible location. The sign must also prohibit smoking using letters or a symbol at least 10 centimetres high.

Storage requirements for sellers

You are permitted to store blank cartridges for tools intended for sale in a dwelling (such as a house, apartment or cottage) or in a storage unit (part of the sales establishment).

Dwelling

If you store blank cartridges for tools intended for sale in a dwelling (such as a house, apartment or cottage), you must store them away from flammable substances and sources of ignition. You must protect them from theft and ensure that they can be accessed only by people you have authorized.

Storage unit

You are permitted to store blank cartridges for tools intended for sale in a storage unit.

  • The storage unit must be in a dry place, away from flammable substances and sources of ignition.
  • The storage unit must prevent unauthorized access and protect the contents from weather.
  • If the storage unit is a container, it must not block exit in case of fire.
  • If the storage unit is not a container, all exits must be kept clear.
  • Any shelving in the storage unit must be made from a non-sparking material (for example, wood or painted metal).
  • Only blank cartridges for tools are permitted to be stored in the unit.
  • The storage unit must be monitored when it is unlocked.
  • The storage unit must be kept clean, dry, organized and free of grit.
  • Any spill, leakage or other contamination must be cleaned up immediately.
  • You must take steps to minimize the risk of fire in or near the storage unit.
  • You must post a sign that displays the words “Danger — Fire Hazard/Risque d’incendie” in letters at least 10 centimetres high on the storage unit in a clearly visible location. The sign must also prohibit smoking using letters or a symbol at least 10 centimetres high.

Selling blank cartridges for tools

Displaying for sale

To display blank cartridges for tools for sale, you must meet the following requirements.

  • You must not display blank cartridges for tools in a dwelling (such as a house, apartment or cottage).
  • In a sales establishment (store), blank cartridges for tools for sale must be kept behind a sales counter or locked up (for example, in a cabinet).
  • Only people you have authorized must have access to the area behind a sales counter.

Contact us

Explosives Regulatory Division
National Headquarters
588 Booth Street, 4th Floor
Ottawa ON  K1A 0Y7
Tel.: 1-855-912-0012
Email: ERDmms@nrcan.gc.ca

Page details

Report a problem on this page
Please select all that apply:

Thank you for your help!

You will not receive a reply. For enquiries, contact us.

Date modified: