Those who associate fireworks with noise and particulate matter often overlook the complex administrative process behind them: market surveillance, legal labeling, documentation—and a great deal of time pressure surrounding the annual sales at the end of December. The ARD media library report “Firecracker check via app” (Hessischer Rundfunk, minutes 6:45–9:30) from December 29, 2025, highlights precisely this everyday administrative routine. It shows how the Kassel Regional Council uses the AI-supported CIB flow app to carry out fireworks inspections efficiently, in a standardized manner, and in compliance with legal requirements.
When New Year's Eve fireworks become a practical example of digital market surveillance
For decades, fireworks inspections were conducted manually, using checklists, file folders, and time-consuming follow-up procedures. Since the launch at the end of December, the RP Kassel has been relying on a digital alternative: CIB flow, the workflow automation platform from CIB.
In the report, the camera accompanies experienced market supervisor Ralf Baier on an inspection in a shop. Instead of filling out forms, the app guides him through the entire inspection process in a structured manner – mobile, without media discontinuity and with standardised documentation.
Guided testing instead of paper-based processes - how the app works in practice:
Based on our CIB flow workflow automation platform, the app guides you through the process in four clear steps:
- Digital recording on site: A photo of the firework is sufficient.
- AI-based analysis: The integrated CIB deepER AI automatically recognizes relevant test characteristics such as CE markings, identification numbers, mandatory texts, and warning notices.
- Automatic data comparison: The AI checks in real time whether the labeling complies with legal requirements.
- Report at the touch of a button: A legally compliant inspection report is generated immediately—including photos and documentation.
This transforms a paper-based process into a continuous mobile workflow.
More tests with the same number of staff: product efficiency becomes measurable
A key point: the app increases testing capacity without requiring additional staff. Compared to the same period last year, more than twice as many tests were carried out in the corresponding period—with no change in staffing levels. The higher per capita output is a clear benefit for the authorities. In addition, throughput times are faster compared to the paper-based process.
The biggest time waster to date has been rework. Today, the focus is on digital capture directly in the process, including structured documentation. Inspectors cite direct digital photo capture, image quality checking, cropping, and compression as the most noticeable improvements. Sources of error, duplication of work, and media breaks are significantly reduced.
Test quality is decoupled from individual experience
The app is not only faster, it also standardizes quality. The structured process ensures consistent inspection results, regardless of who is performing the inspection. Results are available faster and documentation is consistent. This is particularly relevant when teams are working under high pressure and need to fill positions at short notice.
Preserving knowledge, overcoming the shortage of skilled workers
One issue we specifically address at CIB is demographic change. When experts retire, their valuable auditing knowledge must not be lost. CIB flow secures this expertise in the digital process. AI does not replace humans, but rather provides support and creates capacity for what is essential: new auditors no longer need to build up years of experience. The process is guided, repeatable, and identical for everyone.
Knowledge is mapped in the process, not just in the minds of the most experienced individuals.
From Hessen to the whole of Germany
What started as a successful pilot project in North Hesse has the potential for nationwide implementation. Other federal states are showing great interest, as the basic principle—mobile recording, guided inspection, traceable documentation—can be quickly transferred to other inspection and monitoring processes with CIB flow.
Watch the videoreport in the ARD media library
From minute 06:45: See how CIB flow provides digital support for everyday work in market surveillance. The report will be available in the ARD media library until January 28, 2026:
Make your testing processes future-proof!
Are efficiency, standardization, and data sovereignty also relevant for your government agency or company? Then contact us for a no-obligation demo and find out how CIB flow can transform your workflows.
