1. Overview
This guidance provides advice on what is required to ensure the safe supply, operation and inspection of sealed air inflatables used by the public for leisure and entertainment.
Sealed inflatables are becoming more numerous and their range of applications is increasing. Typical devices include:
- trampolines
- mobile base units for water walkers or battery boats
- crash barriers for battery-operated bumper car devices or go-karts
- floating static platforms
- climbing and jumping frames
Sealed inflatables can place users and operators at risk of serious harm in circumstances such as the uncontrolled or explosive release of pressurised air, or losing the device in high winds.
Legal requirements
The legal responsibilities to make sure that sealed inflatables are correctly designed, maintained and operated safely are set out in section 3 and section 6 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act (1974) and require, as far as reasonably practicable, that:
- the article is designed and constructed in such a way that it will be safe and pose no risks to health whenever it is being used for, or in connection with, the entertainment of members of the public
- people who are not employed but may be affected are not exposed to risks to their health or safety
- the equipment is maintained in a safe condition at all times and that it is tested and examined as often as necessary to maintain that safe condition
There is specific advice for those operating sealed inflatables.