SafeWork SA reminds operators, owners and those in control of land-borne inflatable amusement devices of critical risks that must be appropriately managed.
Background
Following the tragic death of six students whilst playing on a bouncy castle at a school in Tasmania last week, SafeWork SA reminds operators, owners and those in control of land-borne inflatable amusement devices of critical risks that must be appropriately managed.
Controlling the risk
All land-borne inflatable devices must be appropriately anchored, in accordance with the manufacturers’ specifications. The manufacturers’ operations manual should provide clear instructions on how to securely anchor an inflatable device onto turf or a hardstand (for example, asphalt or concrete) and the maximum wind speed for which the anchoring system is rated.
Where the inflatable’s anchorage system is not known or has been determined to be inadequate, the owner or operator must obtain specifications from a competent person.
A system of work for regularly monitoring wind speed is to be established to ensure that there is sufficient warning and detection as wind speed increases. It is advised that an on-site wind speed meter (anemometer) is used. This will provide more accurate wind speed monitoring than regional weather updates.
If monitoring indicates that the inflatable’s maximum rated wind speed is likely to be exceeded, it must not be used and deflated.
Employees or self-employed persons operating the inflatable device need to be trained and capable in procedures to safely deflate it.
Any inflatable amusement device with a platform of three metres or higher must be design and plant registered.
Emergency procedures must be clearly documented in the operation manual and periodically tested to ensure that those supervising the device know how to:
- respond to unexpected wind events
- safely remove riders from the device
- safely remove any riders trapped in the device
- safely deflate and secure the device.
For registration information and more details relating to inflatable amusement devices, visit:
