Inflatable activities like bounce houses, obstacle courses, slides, and freefalls have become increasingly popular at parties, celebrations, and festivals. They may keep children and adults occupied for hours, but they can also be dangerous if not set up or used correctly.
Like any amusement ride, inflatable amusement devices can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a source of injury. Inflatables are interactive, meaning people can jump, race, climb, slide, or leap on them. Inflatable amusement devices use a constant flow of air to maintain the shape of the flexible fabric surface. Common injuries to children and adults can include falls and collisions, resulting in sprains, fractures, and brain injuries. Inflatable devices can also suddenly deflate, causing harm if someone is inside.
To avoid these risks, inflatable amusement devices should be correctly set up and secured. This involves ensuring that the device is securely fastened to the ground using stakes or weights and appropriately inflated. It is also critical to ensure that any fans or blowers used to inflate the device are operational and the correct HP.
It is also critical to monitor children and adults when using the inflatable device. This includes ensuring that there aren't more than the maximum number of people on the device at any given time and that children and adults are always kept apart and watched by a qualified and trained attendant. It is also critical to ensure that anyone utilizing the device is dressed appropriately and is not wearing any jewelry or other items that could get caught up in the device.
When having fun with inflatable devices, it's also necessary to keep an eye on the weather using a reliable source. Winds, rain, and lightning increase the danger of injury on inflatable amusement devices. It is advised to avoid utilizing the device if the weather conditions are unfavorable.
In addition to these safety considerations, it is critical to ensure that inflatable amusement devices are inspected and serviced on a regular basis. This involves inspecting the material for tears or holes, verifying that all zippers and closures are in good working condition, and ensuring that the item is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
There are a number of rules and standards that the amusement ride industry follows to ensure riders are safe, but not everyone follows the rules, leaving safety gaps. Example rules and standards include ASTM Standard Practice for Design, Manufacture, Operation, and Maintenance of Inflatable Amusement Devices, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines and bulletins on inflatables, manufacturer requirements, and more. Awareness and application of the rules and standards are essential to the safety of the people using inflatable amusement devices. The goal is to ensure that amusement rides are safe for riders of all ages and abilities.
Inflatable amusement devices can be a lot of fun for kids and adults, but it's vital to be aware of their risks. To avoid these risks, ensure that the device is correctly set up and secured, that children and adults are properly supervised while using it, and that the equipment is inspected and serviced on a regular basis. You may help ensure that everyone has a safe and pleasurable experience with inflatable amusement equipment by following these safety guidelines and the exacting rules and standards developed to prevent the many injuries occurring on these devices.
Do you have questions or a matter to discuss? Consult with Brian D. Avery regarding your concerns or the inflatable amusement device matter.