When spring arrives, families joyfully welcome the Lunar New Year in a warm and festive atmosphere. In the night sky, dazzling fireworks bloom like “spring blossoms,” adding to the happiness of every home. Yet few people realize that behind each radiant burst of light lies the tireless effort of dedicated workers—those who carry passion and responsibility at Factory Z121, the only unit in Vietnam authorized to manufacture fireworks.

Every worker here, from frontline laborers to managers, contributes tirelessly, transforming meticulous manual processes into breathtaking displays in the sky.

From skillful hands to wonders in the sky

Visiting the Z121 fireworks workshop (21 Chemical One Member Company Limited) on a cold winter day, I witnessed workers diligently operating along production lines. This is where fireworks artisans perform highly specialized tasks—from mixing chemical ingredients to create colors, to assembling the components of each firework shell.

In this space, one can see focused eyes, steady hands, and serious expressions. Every movement is executed with care and precision, leaving no room for error.

Each worker maintains absolute concentration during daily work.

Ms. Tống Thị Thu Khánh (37), a worker with 15 years of experience, shared:

“Every pellet, every color effect requires absolute precision. Even a slight error can ruin the effect or increase safety risks. That’s why we must be meticulous and fully focused on every detail. In the past, manual production exposed us to dust and harsher conditions. Now, with semi-automation, the environment is cleaner and less physically demanding—but we never let our guard down. Our goal is always to deliver the most beautiful and safest fireworks to the people.”

She recalled peak production periods before Tet, when workers had to work overtime. Despite balancing family responsibilities and intense workloads, no one ever allows themselves a moment of carelessness—because even a small lapse could lead to disaster. At Z121, precision is never optional; this profession does not tolerate mistakes.

Workers labeling and sealing fireworks boxes.

Quiet dedication in every step

Mr. Phạm Minh Khôi (38), who has worked at Z121 for nearly 19 years, is reassigned to the fireworks workshop every Tet season. His task—repairing shells and labeling—may seem simple, but it requires great dexterity.

He shared:

“Even though I know the product I’m making will eventually explode in the sky, it always feels sacred. There may be moments of brilliance, but behind them is a long process of coordination between production lines and the careful work of every craftsman.”

Like Ms. Khánh and Mr. Khôi, Z121 workers speak of their jobs with deep devotion and caution. In every firework pellet, they not only create beauty in the sky, but also leave behind their sweat—and sometimes, personal sacrifice.

Applying advanced technology to ensure safety for all

While fireworks production demands meticulous craftsmanship, modern technology plays a crucial role in improving efficiency and safety. Factory Z121 continuously upgrades its production lines to increase output, reduce errors, and ensure the highest product quality.

Final stage: workers pack fireworks racks into boxes before distribution.

According to Senior Colonel Trần Anh Mạnh, Deputy Director of Factory Z121, the factory has invested heavily in automation in recent years, significantly reducing manpower requirements in hazardous stages while doubling productivity compared to previous levels.

Advanced automated systems minimize human involvement in dangerous processes, optimize workflows, and improve product consistency. Technologies for temperature and humidity control ensure stable quality, while air-spraying and dust-extraction systems reduce toxic exposure and create a safer working environment.

Senior Colonel Trần Mạnh Hùng, Party Secretary and Chairman of 21 Chemical One Member Company Limited, emphasized:

“Safety and quality are our top priorities, especially for hazardous products such as explosives. We are implementing mechanization and automation initiatives to reduce risks for workers, and we provide significant rewards for technical innovation.”

He added that the factory has also invested in automatic fire suppression systems, instant water supply infrastructure, and annual fire and explosion prevention training drills.

Meanwhile, Senior Colonel Nguyễn Thanh Quang, Deputy Director of Factory Z121, explained that high-risk stages such as explosive mixing and color pellet shaping are strictly regulated and closely supervised. Flammable materials are carefully measured, personnel numbers are limited per workstation, and only well-trained workers are permitted to operate.

Safety regulations also include mandatory protective gear, anti-static measures, lightning protection, and strict limits on explosive quantities at each stage.

Silent sacrifices, daily dedication

Despite technological advancements, Z121 fireworks workers continue to uphold the profession’s traditional values. They are not merely technicians—they are artists, with skillful hands and relentless creativity. Each worker carries a deep love for the craft, despite its inherent risks and challenges.

As Tet approaches, Z121 workers work extended shifts to supply approximately 6 million fireworks products to the market. During peak periods, the workforce triples, with shifts lasting late into the night.

Mr. Trịnh Quốc Huy, Team Leader of Final Assembly Team 1, Enterprise 4, shared:

“Our job is not just about production, it carries a major social responsibility. Safety requires extreme caution. Especially during Tet, we focus on prevention and preparedness to ensure absolute safety. Behind every beautiful fireworks display is a silent sacrifice, including time away from our families.”

Behind every brilliant firework.

Ms. Khánh confided:

“We work daily with flammable materials, dust, and risks. But when Tet comes and I see fireworks lighting up the sky, I feel that I’m part of that joy. That’s what keeps me going.”

Like Ms. Khánh, Mr. Huy, and countless others, all Z121 workers share a deep sense of pride. Their sacrifices go far beyond overtime hours, they represent wholehearted dedication to the joy of millions during Tet celebrations.

When fireworks light up the New Year’s night sky, their colors symbolize prosperity—but they are also a testament to the silent dedication and passion of Z121 workers. Behind every dazzling display are careful hands and devoted individuals who work tirelessly, often unseen, to bring joy to the community.

They stand quietly behind the scenes, but without them, the magic of Tet would never reach the sky.