Inflatable Hire Safety Checklist for Event Organisers

Inflatables are one of the most popular attractions at fun days, fairs and corporate events – and with the right checks they're very safe. This checklist pulls together the main points from HSE guidance on bouncy castles and play inflatables.

Before you book

• Inspection: ask for the PIPA tag number or ADIPS Declaration of Compliance for each inflatable, and check PIPA tags at pipa.org.uk.
• Insurance: ask for the supplier's public liability insurance certificate.
• Risk assessment: your venue or council may ask for the supplier's risk assessment and method statement.
• Permission: parks and public spaces usually need event permission from the council or landowner.

The site

• Choose level ground – guidance used by schools and PTAs suggests no more than a 5% slope.
• Keep clear of overhead cables, trees, fences and other hazards, with space all round for safety mats.
• Plan power: most blowers need a 13 amp socket, or ask about a generator.

On the day

• Anchoring: all anchor points should be used. HSE guidance is a minimum of six anchor points, with steel stakes on grass, or ballast on hard surfaces where stakes can't be used.
• Wind: inflatables must not be used in winds above 24mph (Force 5) – some have a lower limit – so wind speed should be measured during the event.
• Mats: safety mats at the entrance so people can get on and off safely.
• Supervision: an adult must supervise at all times and keep to the user limit for that inflatable.
• Rules: no shoes, glasses, jewellery, food, drink or sharp objects; similar-sized users together.

If the weather turns

Stop play and get everyone off if wind or rain becomes a problem, then deflate safely. Have a plan B – a hall or marquee – for big events.

When you book with JM Inflatable Hire we follow the PIPA scheme, supply the paperwork and brief your supervisors – or add our operators for the day. See our school fun day and corporate fun day pages for ideas.