Inflatable Devices ballot April-2015
Transcript of Inflatable Devices ballot April-2015
Designation: X XXXX-XX
Work Item Number: WK48002
Date: 03/23/2015
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This document is not an ASTM standard; it is under consideration within an ASTM technical committee but has not received all approvals required to become an ASTM standard. You agree not to reproduce or circulate or quote, in whole or in part, this document outside of ASTM Committee/Society activities, or submit it to any other organization or standards bodies (whether national, international, or other) except with the approval of the Chairman of the Committee having jurisdiction and the written authorization of the President of the Society. If you do not agree with these conditions please immediately destroy all copies of the document. Copyright ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428. All Rights Reserved.
Ballot Rationale: 1
The original ASTM standard for inflatable amusement devices, F2374, was published in 2
2004 and has not been significantly updated since then. Rising injury rates within the 3
NEISS data and media reports of incidents involving inflatable devices that became wind 4
borne with patrons inside brought pressure from the Consumer Product Safety 5
Commission and other regulatory agencies to improve the standard. 6
Key areas of focus for this new standard include: secure anchoring, use of impact 7
attenuation materials to reduce risk of serious head injuries resulting from falls, and 8
expanded operational guidelines for installers, attendants, and patrons. 9
The task group welcomes all constructive feedback. If you’re voting negative, please 10
provide specific suggestions to address the deficiencies. 11
If you have any questions, contact one of the task group chairs: 12
Kathy Fackler - Administrative lead - [email protected] 13
Bob Field - Design and Manufacturing - [email protected] 14
Kevin Wieging - Operations and Patron Education - [email protected] 15
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Standard Practice for 18
Design, Manufacture, Installation, Operation, Maintenance, 19
Inspection and Major Modification of Air Inflatable Devices1 20
This standard is issued under the fixed designation X XXXX; the number immediately following the designation 21 indicates the year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses 22 indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript epsilon () indicates an editorial change since the last revision or 23 reapproval. 24
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1. Scope 26
1.1 The purpose of this practice is to delineate requirements regarding the design, 27
manufacture, installation, operation, maintenance, inspection and major modification of air 28
inflatable devices with the primary purpose of amusement, entertainment or recreation. 29
1 This Practice/Guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices and is
the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F24.61 on Adventure Attractions. Current edition approved XXX. XX, XXXX. Published XX XXXX. DOI: 10.1520/XXXXX-XX.
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1.2 This standard applies to air inflatable devices used primarily in amusement, 30
entertainment or recreational applications. Such applications include but are not limited to 31
amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, rental companies, 32
fitness centers, gyms, gymnastics facilities, jump centers, sports facilities, skate parks, camps, 33
shopping centers, temporary special events, carnivals and municipal parks. 34
1.3 This practice establishes guidelines that will provide a level of conformity for the purpose 35
of reducing potential hazards to patrons, attendants, and spectators. 36
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the hazards associated with air inflatable 37
devices. The standard’s existence alone will not prevent injuries. Like other physical activities, 38
air inflatable device use involves the risk of injury, particularly if the equipment is used 39
improperly or if users exceed their capabilities, endurance, training, or experience. 40
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory 41
material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be 42
considered as requirements of the standard. 43
1.6 This practice includes an annex (mandatory), which provides additional information (for 44
example, rationale, background, interpretations, drawings, commentary, and so forth) to improve 45
the user’s understanding and application of the criteria presented in this practice. The annex 46
information shall be interpreted as mandatory criteria. 47
1.7 This practice includes an appendix (non-mandatory), which provides additional 48
information (for example, rationale, background, interpretations, drawings, commentary, and so 49
forth.) to improve the user’s understanding and application of the criteria presented in this 50
practice. The appendix information shall not be interpreted as mandatory criteria. 51
1.8 This standard includes the following sections: 52
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Section 53
Scope 1 54
Referenced Documents 2 55
Terminology 3 56
Significance and Use 4 57
Quality, Manufacture, Construction and Installation 5 58
Materials 6 59
General Design 7 60
Anchoring Systems 8 61
Type-Specific Design Criteria 9 62
Ancillary Support Equipment 10 63
Major Modification 11 64
Information Plate 12 65
Information Requirements 13 66
Certifications 14 67
Performance Criteria 15 68
Classification of Injuries and Illnesses 16 69
Notification Requirements 17 70
Manufacturer Responsibilities 18 71
Owner/Operator Responsibilities 19 72
Patron Education 20 73
Patron Responsibility 21 74
Keywords 22 75
Annex Annex A1 76
Appendix Appendix X1 77
1.9 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values 78
given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information 79
only and are not considered standard. 80
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated 81
with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and 82
health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 83
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2. Referenced Documents 85
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2.1 ASTM Standards: 86
D3787, “Standard Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles-Constant-Rate-of-Traverse 87
(CRT) Ball Burst Test. 88
F770, Practice for Ownership, Operation, Maintenance, and Inspection of Amusement Rides 89
and Devices. 90
F1159, Standard Practice for Design of Amusement Rides and Devices that are Outside the 91
Purview of Other F24 Design Standards. 92
F2375, Practice for Design, Manufacture, Installation and Testing of Climbing Nets and 93
Netting/Mesh used in Amusement Rides, Devices, Play Areas and Attractions 94
F2974, Standard Guide for Auditing Amusement Rides and Devices 95
NFPA 70, Article 525.23, Section 4, Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI) Protection. 96
F355, Laboratory testing of attenuation materials. 97
F2397, Standard Specification for Protective Headgear. 98
F1772, Standard Specification for Harnesses for Rescue, Safety, and Sport Activities. 99
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3. Terminology 101
3.1 Reference Terminology F747. 102
3.2 .2 Air Inflatable Device, n— an inflated device used for amusement, entertainment or 103
recreation that does not require, other than a supporting continuous air blower, the use of 104
mechanical assistance to operate. 105
3.3 Attendant, n— individual responsible for the operation of the inflatable amusement 106
device, supervising participants, emergency evacuation, and monitoring weather conditions 107
while device is in operation. 108
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3.4 Braided Rope, n— cylindrically produced rope made by intertwining, maypole fashion, 109
several to many strands according to a definite pattern with adjacent strands normally containing 110
yarns of the opposite twist. 111
3.5 Captured Air Inflatable, n— a structure or device that maintains inflation without the 112
need for a constant air supply. 113
3.6 Containment, n—in inflatable amusement device, the action of keeping something 114
potential harmful under control. 115
3.7 Continuous Air Inflatable, n— a structure or device that requires constant air to be 116
supplied to maintain structure, form, shape or integrity. 117
3.8 Dynamic, adj—in rope, has stretch incorporated in its construction. 118
3.9 Egress, n— the action of leaving or exiting a place. 119
3.10 Entrapment Point, n— any area of an inflatable device which may ensnare a patron(s) 120
and does not allow a smooth transition through that device. 121
3.11 Head Injury Criterion, HIC, n—a measure of impact likelihood of head injury arising 122
from an impact 123
3.12 Impact Attenuation, n— property of a surface that, through localized deformation or 124
displacement, absorbs the energy of an impact in a way that reduces the magnitudes of peak 125
impact force and peak acceleration. 126
3.13 Impact Attenuation Mat, n— an impact absorbing material designed to reduce the risk 127
of a serious head injury if a patron falls from an inflatable device. 128
3.14 Ingress, n— a place or means of access: an entrance. 129
3.15 Non-Slip, adj— any surface that does not promote a loss of traction. 130
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3.16 Obstruction, n— in inflatable amusement device, any non-inflated device or structure 131
contained in or around an air inflatable device. 132
3.17 Owner/ Operator, n— person, entity or organization that is responsible for the 133
maintenance, installation and operation of an inflatable amusement device. 134
3.18 Pressure Relief Valve, n— spring controlled valve that bleeds excess pressure from an 135
inflatable device when full inflation has been achieved. 136
3.19 Professional Engineer, PE, n— a licensed engineer who is recognized by an accredited 137
organization. 138
3.20 Tensile Strength, n— in rope, average strength of new rope under laboratory conditions. 139
3.21 Use Zone, n—the surface under and around an inflatable amusement device onto which 140
a child falling from or exiting from the equipment would be expected to land. 141
3.22 Working Load, n— in rope, tensile strength divided by a factor that more accurately 142
reflects the maximum load that should be applied to a given rope to assure a comfortable safety 143
margin and longevity of the line. 144
4. Significance and Use 145
4.1 This practice is intended to provide consistent criteria, references and operational 146
considerations in the specifications, management and construction of air inflatable devices. 147
4.2 This practice is intended to be taken into consideration by designers, engineers, 148
manufacturers, appropriate inspectors, owners and operators who are involved with the design, 149
construction, manufacture, installation, operation, maintenance, inspection or major modification 150
of air inflatable devices. 151
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4.3 This practice does apply to air inflatable devices commonly referred to as a bounce, slide, 152
obstacle course, challenge course, interactive play, game, movie screen, misting station, tunnel, 153
air bag, climbing wall or combination unit. 154
4.4 This practice does apply to air inflatable devices used as an element or in combination 155
with another air inflatable device, trampoline, trampoline court, adventure attraction, adventure 156
course, zip line, swing, ball, trapeze bar, mechanical bull, surf simulator, climbing structure, pit, 157
inflatable impact attenuation system, amusement ride or amusement device. 158
4.5 This practice does apply to air inflatable devices that deploy a membrane over or in 159
combination with a pit or box structure. 160
4.6 This practice does apply to air inflatable devices that are designed for dry use, wet use or 161
a combination of wet/dry use. 162
4.7 This practice does not apply to consumer captured air or constant air inflatable devices 163
designed exclusively for home use. 164
4.8 This practice does not apply to stand alone captured air inflatable devices that are 165
designed to be worn by a patron or a patron is contained within the elevated pressure area, the 166
device is designed to be mobile during its intended use, the device does not include an anchoring 167
or ballasting system and the device contains less than 270 cubic feet of air. Examples include 168
but are not limited to: a sumo wrestling suit, a soccer suit, a water walking ball, a sports ball, a 169
hamster ball, a hill-rolling ball. 170
4.9 This practice does not apply to constant air inflatable devices where the structures shape 171
is maintained by air pressure, the patrons are contained within the elevated pressure area and the 172
device contains more than 100,000 cubic feet of air. 173
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4.10 This practice does not apply to captured air inflatable devices designed to be used 174
primarily in or on water. 175
4.11 This practice does not apply to inflatable personal flotation devices or inflatable 176
restraint cushions. 177
4.12 This standard does not apply to non-participatory static inflatable displays used for 178
advertising and promotion. 179
5. Quality, Manufacture, Construction and Installation 180
5.1 Quality, manufacture, construction and installation shall be in accordance with Practice 181
F1193, F1159, F2375, D3787, and F770. 182
5.2 All components shall be installed as per designer and manufacturer specifications. 183
5.3 There shall be no Entrapment Points as defined by F1487. 184
5.4 The number of patrons and maximum size of each patron that the structure can safely 185
contain at any one time is specified in the operations manual and on the safety labeling per 186
manufacturers designation for patron capacities. Occupancy cannot exceed maximum number of 187
patrons and patron size cannot exceed maximum weight per patron posted on the device. 188
5.4.1 The maximum number of patrons with maximum weight (per person) along with 189
maximum height and minimum height shall be indicated on the safety label. 190
5.4.2 Manufacturers of air inflatable devices shall identify limitations in size of individuals 191
utilizing an inflatable device at any given time. 192
5.5 There shall be no hard or sharp angles in any part of the air inflatable device that is 193
accessible to patrons during use. Such items include outside seams with a raw edge, square 194
inflated corners and sharp pointed cones. 195
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6. Materials 196
6.1 Material (Fabric) Strength 197
6.1.1 Fabrics shall be of adequate tear and tensile strength for the weight of the intended 198
users and have sufficient air retention abilities to enable the air inflatable device, when 199
pressurized to the levels specified in the operation manual, to resume its intended shape after 200
distortion under load. 201
6.1.2 Fabrics used in those parts of the air inflatable device that are subject to force or stress 202
as applied by the patrons or the anchorage system shall comply with ASTM D5446. Standard 203
Practice for Determining Physical Properties of Fabrics, Yarns, and Sewing Thread Used in 204
Inflatable Restraints. 205
6.1.2.1 Minimum tear strength of 81 warp and 83 weft when tested in accordance with 206
method D3787, Standard Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles-Constant-Rate-of- 207
Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test. 208
6.1.2.2 Minimum tensile strength of 444 warp and 441 weft when used in accordance with 209
ASTM D3787. Lower strength fabrics may be used in decorative parts that do not come in 210
contact with patrons. Such fabrics shall be of adequate tear and tensile strength to withstand the 211
design operating pressure. 212
NOTE 1: Cold flex cracking and surface coating adhesions are both measurable parameters 213
that should be considered by the designer as they affect performance of the fabric and must 214
comply with ASTM D3787. 215
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216 Figure 1: Fabric weft and warp 217
6.2 Flammability 218
6.2.1 Coated fabric used for air inflatable devices must comply with Fire testing NFPA 701 219
STANDARD METHOD II. Standard Method for Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles 220
and Film. 221
6.2.2 NFPA 701 testing documentation must be current within 5 years of inspection date for 222
the inflatable device. Tests to be performed by an independent testing facility. 223
6.2.3 Inflatable manufacturer shall maintain flammability test results for material used on the 224
air inflatable device. 225
6.3 Painted or Printed Surfaces 226
6.3.1 Painted or Printed Coated Fabric used in the construction of air inflatable devices must 227
be non-toxic with Phthalate levels not to exceed 0.009 (90 ppm). 228
6.3.2 Painted or Printed materials must comply with NFPA 701 STANDARD METHOD II 229
for Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Film. 230
6.4 Phthalates 231
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6.4.1 Coated Fabric used in the construction of air inflatable devices must be non-toxic with 232
Phthalate levels not to exceed 0.009 (90 ppm). 233
6.5 Thread 234
6.5.1 Equivalent 207 Denier Polyester Thread to be used on air inflatable device in 235
compliance with ASTM D3787. 236
6.6 Netting or Mesh 237
6.6.1 Netting or mesh used in the construction of an air inflatable device must comply with 238
ASTM F2375. Mesh size should be small enough to prevent an 8 mm (.314961”) test probe from 239
passing through. 240
241 Figure 2: Woven mesh 242
6.7 Zippers (Entrance and or Deflation ports) 243
6.7.1 Zippers shall withstand the air pressure generated within the air inflatable device 244
according to manufacturers designated requirements. 245
6.7.2 Zipper pulls shall be accessible to use from both sides. Zippers for deflation purposes 246
shall have the pull concealed from view by use of a flap or pocket. 247
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248 Figure 3: Examples of zipper protection 249
6.8 Impact Attenuation Mats 250
6.8.1 Impact attenuation materials for perimeter areas around ingress and egress areas of 251
inflatable devices must be in accordance with Test Method F355 and section 15.1. 252
7. General Design 253
7.1 Professional Engineer Review and Testing 254
7.1.1 All air inflatable device designs with an inflated floor (mattress) must be reviewed by a 255
Professional Engineer for compliance with this standard practice. 256
7.1.2 All air inflatable device designs with an inflated floor (mattress) shall be Professional 257
Engineer certified for Wind Load calculations based on manufacturer’s stated maximum wind 258
speed for any given air inflatable device. 259
7.1.3 All air inflatable device designs with an inflated floor (mattress) must be in accordance 260
with the applicable testing criteria for steps, ramps and play area surfaces in section 15.2. 261
7.2 Use Zone 262
7.2.1 Patrons should not be able to come into contact with an obstruction placed inside or 263
adjacent to the air inflatable device when in use or during unintended deflation. 264
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7.2.2 Any hard object positioned over the playing area and supported by air pressure that 265
could come in contact with a patron, shall meet the impact attenuation method of testing F355. 266
7.3 Emergency Evacuation 267
7.3.1 The design of the inflatable device shall be sufficient to allow for evacuation in the 268
event of sudden deflation. 269
7.3.2 Exit point(s) for evacuation of the device shall be provided on the inflatable device. 270
7.4 Inflatables Utilizing Water 271
7.4.1 The use of a non-slip surface must be incorporated into the climbing areas of the 272
device. 273
7.4.2 Egress areas must have a non-slip surface for safe exiting of the device. 274
7.5 Inflation Blowers / Blower Ports (Tubes) 275
7.5.1 Inflation blower tubes shall be designed to enable the positioning of the blower location 276
to minimize the risk to patrons. 277
7.5.2 Inflation Blowers shall not be positioned in the fall zone surrounding the ingress and 278
egress areas of the air inflatable device. 279
7.5.3 Inflation blowers shall have a non-return valve to prevent back pressure from escaping 280
the air inflatable device in the event of a power loss. 281
8. Anchoring Systems 282
8.1 Sufficient anchor points shall be provided and located such as to enable stability and 283
restraint to be maintained under the designer’s stated operating conditions. Including but not 284
limited to all potential forces of wind and internal pressures from patrons while in use. 285
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286 Figure 4: Anchor points 287
8.2 The number of anchor points located on the inflatable device shall be designed to 288
accommodate horizontal and vertical loads, acting simultaneously. 289
290 Figure 5: Anchoring example 291
8.3 An anchoring system shall be designed to reduce the risk of injury to operators or patrons 292
from tripping or falling. 293
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8.4 Anchoring systems on all surfaces must comply with wind load calculations supplied by 294
a Professional Engineer, for required weight to secure the inflatable on each anchoring point 295
based on manufacturers stated wind speed limitations. 296
8.5 The anchoring system of each inflatable device must be designed to have a "Computable 297
Anchoring System Capacity" that is higher than the computed “Operating Loads” due to the 298
Design Sustained Wind/Wind Gust Speed by a Factor of Safety (FOS) that is greater than or 299
equal to 1.5. The ratio of allowable working unit stress is defined as: 300
8.6 Staking 301
8.6.1 Correct staking for optimum holding power is demonstrated in Figure 6. 302
303 Figure 6: Correct vs. incorrect staking 304
8.6.2 Metal anchors (stake) should be embedded a minimum of 70% the overall length of the 305
anchor for optimum pull resistance as shown in Figure 7. 306
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307 Figure 7: Stake depth 308
8.6.3 Anchor (stake) Diameter should be a minimum of 5/8” (.625”) with an optimum 309
diameter of 1.0”. The larger the diameter of the anchor (stake) the greater the holding power. As 310
shown in Figure 8. 311
312 Figure 8: Anchor diameter 313
8.6.4 The strength of various types of soil is an important detail for estimating pullout 314
capacity of an anchor (stake). Stake penetration resistance offered by a stake during installation 315
provides a rough estimate as to ground conditions being dry or saturated. Stakes driven into a 316
saturated ground provides approximately half the pulling capacity of the stakes driven into the 317
same ground under dry conditions 318
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8.6.5 The correct way to attach an anchor tether to a metal stake is to use a tied knot that will 319
minimize the reduction of tensile strength of the tether used for anchoring the air inflatable 320
device. An example of one style accepted type of knot is the Taut-Line Hitch which is an 321
adjustable knot that will continue to tighten during use. See Figure 9. 322
323 Figure 9: Taut-line hitch knot 324
8.6.6 Figure 10 shows the relationship between penetrations of a stake into varying ground 325
surfaces with Pullout Capacities. The chart is based on 1.0” diameter stake, driven 70% into 326
surface. Each blow measured using a 16 lb Sledge Hammer with normal swing. 327
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328 Figure 10: Stake penetration per soil type 329
330
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9. Type-Specific Design Criteria 331
9.1 Inflatable Slides / Water Slides 332
9.1.1 Ingress, entry climb area shall include a non-slip surface with equally spaced steps or 333
footholds with hand or grab rails on climb cover or containment walls. 334
335 Figure 11: Ingress, entry climb area 336
9.1.2 Upper landing shall include a transition area no less than 36” x 36” to facilitate from 337
standing climb to seated position for sliding. 338
339 Figure 12: Upper landing transition area 340
9.1.3 Containment wall height shall be a minimum of 36 inches on slides with elevated 341
landing (platform) height of 132” (inches) or higher. 342
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343 Figure 13: Containment wall height for landing heights 132" or higher 344
9.1.4 Containment wall height shall be a minimum of 28 inches on slides with elevated 345
landing (platform) height of 131” (inches) or lower. 346
347 Figure 14: Containment wall height for landing heights 131" or lower 348
9.1.5 Protective cover shall be provided over slide and climb areas to prevent patron from 349
standing, jumping or diving down the slope. Protective cover shall encompass an area over the 350
climb and slide areas with a minimum of 1/3 the slope length of the slide. 351
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352 Figure 15: Protective cover over slide and climb area 353
9.1.6 Landing surface (run out) shall be sufficient in length so that patron cannot reach the 354
bumper or barrier wall at the end of inflatable device, with testing performed using the maximum 355
per person weight as a test method. 356
357 Figure 16: Impact mat for slide 358
9.1.7 Where a landing barrier (wall or bump) or a run out as defined by 9.1.6 is provided, the 359
distance from the landing shall be sufficient to prevent patrons from prematurely exiting the 360
device. 361
9.1.8 Egress area shall allow safe transition to the ground. 362
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9.1.9 Impact attenuation mat shall be in accordance with 15.1 and 18.3.5.1. 363
9.1.10 There shall be no Entrapment Points as defined by F1487 Section 6.1. 364
9.1.11 The manufacturer of an air inflatable device shall test the design for structural 365
integrity with stated capacity of patron weight when continuous air supply has been removed and 366
shall not cause an entrapment point as defined by F1487 Section 6.1. 367
9.1.12 Inflatable slides used in conjunction with water shall use a Ground Fault Circuit 368
Interrupters (G.F.C.I) device per NFPA 70, Article 525.23, Section 4. This G.F.C.I device is to 369
be placed between the power supply and the inflation blower. 370
9.2 Inflatable Bouncers / Bouncer Combos (Containing a Slide or Obstacles) 371
9.2.1 Inflatable bouncers and bouncer combos design must be fully enclosed with a perimeter 372
barrier around all sides structurally tied together to prevent collapse of any portion of the 373
supporting barrier walls and to prevent patrons from falling out of the contained bouncer device. 374
Containment walls shall be a minimum of 1.25 times the height of the indicated maximum height 375
requirement for the device. 376
9.2.2 Supporting containment walls may either be inflated or enclosed with netting or mesh 377
per F2375. 378
9.2.3 Bouncer combos with an exterior slide shall have a protective cover over the slide 379
section to encompass the slide area equal to 1/3 the height of the slide. 380
9.2.4 Bouncer combos with an exterior slide shall have side containment walls with sufficient 381
height to guard patrons from falling out of the air inflatable device. 382
9.2.5 There shall be no entrapment points as defined by F1487 section 6.1. 383
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9.2.6 Inflatable bouncers and or combo devices shall be constructed so there are no 384
hazardous gaps in netting which fingers can be trapped when tested in accordance with test 385
procedures described in 6.6.1. 386
9.2.7 Inflatable bouncers and combos must have an entrance / exit ramp or step for transition 387
from play area to the ground (floor). The entrance ramp or step shall be wide enough to cover the 388
ingress and egress aperture. 389
390 Figure 17: Entrance/exit ramp or step 391
9.2.8 Fully enclosed inflatable bouncers and combo devices shall have a secondary 392
accessible escape opening in the roof of the structure. The escape opening may be enclosed with 393
Hook & Loop enclosure material or a zipper with a minimum of 48” opening. The escape 394
opening location shall be clearly marked from inside and outside the structure. 395
9.2.9 Impact attenuation mat shall be in accordance with 15.1 and 18.3.5.1. 396
9.3 Inflatable Obstacle Courses and Interactive Games 397
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9.3.1 Inflatable obstacle courses, interactive games or any inflatable devices which include 398
areas to crawl through, crawl over, or crawl under any portion within the inflatable structure, 399
must have no entrapment areas as defined by F1487. 400
9.3.2 Containment walls shall be of sufficient height to contain patrons while the air 401
inflatable device is being operated in the manner for which it was designed. 402
9.3.3 Other than the ingress and egress areas, there shall be no open access areas that would 403
allow patrons to enter or exit the device while in use. 404
9.3.4 Elevated landings over obstacles or obstacle slides must be covered (Contained) to 405
prevent standing areas for patrons. 406
9.3.5 Containment walls on the device with a height lower than 36” shall have impact 407
attenuation mat protection per Test method F355 and 15.1 and 18.3.5.1 stationed below those 408
areas on the device. 409
410 Figure 18: Impact attenuation mat 411
9.3.6 Impact attenuation mat shall be in accordance with 15.1 and 18.3.5.1. 412
9.4 Inflatable Structures (non inflated floor or play area) 413
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9.4.1 Inflatable structures used as a perimeter (barrier walls) interactive game or display or as 414
a shelter (tent / housing) require anchoring per Section 8. 415
9.4.2 Inflatable structures shall be constructed so there are no hazardous gaps in which 416
fingers can be trapped when tested in accordance with test procedures described in 6.6.1. 417
9.4.3 There shall be no Entrapment Points as defined by F1487. 418
9.4.4 All inflatable structures should have an entrance and exit. The entrance and exit may be 419
the same access point as long as not obstructed. 420
9.4.5 Inflatable tent or housing structures with full containment walls shall have, in addition 421
to an entrance and exit, a minimum of (1) posted emergency exit. The number of emergency 422
exits required shall be determined by the following: 423
9.4.5.1 If the size of the structure is less than 750 square feet or designed for less than 50 424
occupants, there shall be a minimum of (1) posted emergency exits. 425
9.4.5.2 Structures with a capacity of 50 or more occupants shall require a minimum of (2) 426
posted emergency exits. 427
9.4.5.3 The maximum number of occupants that can be accommodated at any one time 428
within the structure shall be considered. The maximum occupancy of a structure can be 429
calculated by using 11 square feet per occupant. For example: 750 square foot structure would 430
have a maximum of 68. (750 ÷ 11 = 68) 431
9.4.5.4 The maximum distance allowed for travel path from inside the air inflatable device to 432
an emergency exit is 200 feet or to local and municipal code requirements. 433
9.4.5.5 The collapse time of the structure in the event of loss of inflation pressure shall be no 434
less than one (1) minute. 435
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9.4.5.6 Emergency exits shall be lighted with visible signage. 436
9.5 Inflatable Structures (Captured Air / Sealed Air) Land Use. 437
9.5.1 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated 438
with use of captured air / sealed air inflatables. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard 439
to establish and determine appropriate safety and health practices and applicability of regulatory 440
limitations prior to use. 441
9.5.2 There shall be no Entrapment Points as defined by F1487. 442
9.5.3 Sufficient anchor points shall be provided and located such as to enable stability and 443
restraint to be maintained under the designer’s stated operating conditions, including but not 444
limited to all potential forces of wind and internal pressures from patrons while in use per 8.1. 445
9.5.4 A Pressure relief valve is required to bleed off excess pressure from an inflatable device 446
when full inflation has been achieved. When accessible during intended use, protruding parts of 447
the valve shall be rounded and not create entanglement or entrapment. 448
9.5.5 Internal air pressure should be within a range of 1 - 2.5 psi when inflatable is inflated in 449
normal temperature conditions. 450
NOTE 2: Cold temperatures may cause a loss in contained pressure resulting in structural 451
instability. 452
9.5.6 Land use Captured Air inflatable that utilize mesh or netting within the design shall 453
adhere to 6.6. 454
9.5.7 Land use Captured Air inflatable devices shall use impact attenuation mats per 15.1. 455
9.5.8 Land use Captured Air inflatable slides shall comply with 9.1. 456
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9.5.9 Land use Captured Air inflatable bouncers, combos (including combos with obstacles) 457
shall adhere to 9.2. 458
9.5.10 Land use Captured Air inflatable obstacle courses and interactive games shall comply 459
with 9.3. 460
9.5.11 Captured Air inflatable Balls, Orbs or Spheres that have the capability to roll and 461
encompass a patron shall be contained within a perimeter barrier. 462
10. Ancillary Support Equipment 463
10.1 Operator Warning System - The inflation system shall incorporate the use of an audio or 464
visual alert system to notify the attendant in the event of disruption of air flow per F2970 Section 465
7.24.15.1. 466
10.2 Joust Poles used in conjunction with an air inflatable device shall not contain any rigid 467
component that could cause injury. e.g.: metal pole, PVC pole, etc. 468
10.3 Boxing Gloves used in conjunction with an air inflatable device shall not have any 469
ridged component that can come in contact with a patron while being used. 470
10.4 Head Gear used in conjunction with an air inflatable device shall comply with F2397. 471
10.5 Climbing Harness used in conjunction with an air inflatable device shall comply with 472
F1772. 473
10.6 Climbing Rope - This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if 474
any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user to follow the rope manufacturer’s 475
requirements. 476
10.6.1 Testing of braided rope shall be done to measure the linear density, lay length and 477
braided pitch with a rope under a specified tension called the reference tension. 478
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10.6.2 The measured elongation of a braided rope shall be done to document the increase in 479
length of the rope when the tension to which it is subjected is increased from an initial value 480
(reference tension) to a value equal to 50% of the minimum specified breaking strength of the 481
rope. 482
10.6.3 The strength and application of rope, when used, shall be determined by the 483
designer/manufacturer of the inflatable device by applying standard structural engineering 484
practices for expected dynamic, live and dead loads and uses materials that are applicable for the 485
intended use. 486
10.6.4 The breaking force is the maximum force registered for a braided rope. The breaking 487
test shall be performed on a tensile testing machine with a constant rate of traverse of the moving 488
element. Breaking force values given in a rope specification supplied by a rope manufacturer are 489
only valid when this type of testing has been performed. 490
10.6.5 Rope and rope accessories in the primary load path shall have a minimum factor of 491
safety (FOS) of five (5). This calculation shall include dynamic load limits. 492
10.6.6 Climbing ropes shall be fixed at both ends and a maximum possible displacement 493
either side of its center line shall not exceed 10% of the distance between the points of fixing. 494
10.6.7 Ropes used in conjunction with inflatable devices shall be made of polyester fibers to 495
reduce degradation due to moisture and UV exposure. 496
10.6.8 The designer/manufacturer shall consider during the design analysis, the effects of the 497
environment and wear on the primary load path materials, including but not limited to ultra-498
violet light, heat, vermin and etc. 499
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500 Figure 19: Braided rope 501
10.6.9 Ropes used to rappel on an inflatable device must be a Dynamic type with a minimum 502
diameter of 9.5mm. 503
11. Major Modification 504
11.1 Major Modifications—As specified in Terminology F747, major modifications shall 505
not occur without written approval from the manufacturer. 506
11.1.1 In the event the manufacturer does not provide written approval for a major 507
modification, the owner/operator may retain a different manufacturer or designer/engineer to 508
complete or approve the major modification, or both. 509
12. Information Plate 510
12.1 The information given in 12.2 shall be included, where applicable, on the information 511
plate as specified in 12.2, and in the documented operating and maintenance instructions to be 512
furnished by the manufacturer or seller at the time of sale of each air inflatable device. 513
12.2 Information Plate—A manufacturer-issued information plate, printed in English, shall 514
be permanently affixed to the air inflatable device in a visible location, and shall be designed to 515
remain legible for the expected life of the air inflatable device. The plate shall include, but not be 516
restricted to, all applicable items listed in 12.2.1-12.2.8. 517
12.2.1 Serial Number—A manufacturer-issued unique identifying number or code affixed to 518
the air inflatable device in a permanent fashion. 519
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12.2.2 Name and Manufacturer—A manufacturer issued unique identifying air inflatable 520
device name, including the name of the manufacturer by city, state, and country. 521
12.2.3 Model Number—A manufacturer-issued unique identifying number or code assigned 522
to each manufactured type of air inflatable device having the same structural design or 523
components. 524
12.2.4 Date of Manufacture—The date (month and year) determined by the manufacturer 525
that the given air inflatable device met his required construction specifications. 526
12.2.5 Patron Capacity by Weight—Maximum total patron weight per air inflatable device. 527
12.2.6 Patron Capacity by Number—Maximum total number of adult or child patrons per air 528
inflatable device. 529
12.2.7 Attendants—Minimum number of attendants required when air inflatable device is in 530
operation or occupied by patrons. 531
12.2.8 Country of Origin—(Example: Made in _________). 532
12.3 The information plate shall state the air inflatable device was built in conformance with 533
this standard practice. 534
13. Information Requirements 535
13.1 The following instructions outline requirements under Practice F1193-06 as applicable 536
to air inflatable devices and include requirements not specified in Practice F1193-06 which are 537
necessary and unique to air inflatable devices. The designer, manufacturer, or supplier shall 538
supply to the owner, operator, purchaser or requesting regulatory authority prior to shipment, the 539
following information in accordance with Practice F1193-06. 540
13.2 Operational Instructions: 541
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13.2.1 Manufacturers of air inflatable devices shall deliver to the owner/operator and make 542
available to regulatory bodies applicable documentation per Practice F1193-06, Sections 10 and 543
11. 544
13.3 Maintenance Procedures: 545
13.3.1 Manufacturers of air inflatable devices shall deliver to the owner/operator and make 546
available to regulatory bodies applicable documentation per Practice F1193-06, Section 13. 547
13.4 Inspection Requirements: 548
13.4.1 Manufacturers of air inflatable devices shall deliver to the owner/operator and make 549
available to regulatory bodies applicable documentation per Practice F1193-06, Section 15. 550
13.5 Service Bulletins: 551
13.5.1 Manufacturers of air inflatable devices shall deliver to the owner/operator and make 552
available to regulatory bodies supplemental notification bulletins in accordance with Practice 553
F1193-06, Section 14. 554
14. Certifications 555
14.1 The following instructions outline requirements under Practice F1193-06 as applicable 556
to air inflatable devices and include requirements not specified in Practice F1193-06 which are 557
necessary and unique to air inflatable devices. The designer, engineer or manufacturer shall 558
supply to the owner, operator, purchaser or requesting regulatory authority, prior to shipment, the 559
following certifications in accordance with Practice F1193-06. 560
14.2 Certification that the air inflatable device bed design, quality, manufacture, and 561
construction are in conformance with Practice F1193-06, and this standard practice. 562
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14.3 Certification that fabrics, textiles, containment netting or small mesh material used in 563
the construction of the air inflatable device have been treated with U/V degradation inhibitors, 564
and a representative sample has been tested and was found in accordance with this standard 565
practice. 566
14.4 Certification that fabrics, textiles, containment netting or small mesh material used in 567
the construction of the air inflatable device have been treated with flame and smoke spread 568
inhibitors, and a representative sample has been tested and was found in accordance with this 569
standard practice. 570
14.5 Certification that fabrics, textiles, containment netting or small mesh material used in 571
the construction of the air inflatable device contain no more than 90 ppm of lead. 572
14.6 Certification that the blower system, warning system and electrical system used in the 573
construction of the air inflatable device is in accordance with this standard practice. 574
15. Performance Criteria 575
15.1 Impact Attenuation Mat (HIC) Head Injury Criterion 576
15.1.1 Laboratory Testing of Impact Attenuation—New Materials: 577
15.1.1.1 Impact attenuation materials used to cover the ground (floor) surface areas around 578
the ingress and egress and shall limit the g-max (peak acceleration) to less than an average of 579
100 when a representative sample is tested in accordance with Test Method F355 using a 20 lb. 580
(9.09 kg) flathead (Missile A) dropped from a distance of 24 +.39, −0 in. (61 +1, −0 cm). 581
15.1.1.2 Representative samples shall be tested on an iron anvil, or concrete substrate. 582
15.1.1.3 The testing positions for each sample shall be determined by the attenuation material 583
manufacturer. 584
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15.1.1.4 Each sample shall be tested three times, with each drop being within five minutes of 585
each other. 586
15.1.1.5 The temperature of the impact attenuation materials shall be 68° +/- 18°F (20° 6 587
10°C). 588
15.1.1.6 Determine the average g-max score by averaging the g-max scores from the second 589
and third drops. 590
15.1.2 Field Testing of Impact Attenuation—In Service Materials: 591
15.1.2.1 Impact attenuation materials used to cover the ground (floor) surface areas around 592
the ingress and egress shall limit the g-max (peak acceleration) to less than an average of 180 593
when a representative sample is tested in accordance with Test Method F355 using a 20 lb. (9.09 594
kg) flathead (Missile A) dropped from a distance of 24 +.39, −0 in. (61 +1, −0 cm). 595
15.1.2.2 Representative samples may be tested in place as determined by the attenuation 596
material manufacturer or owner/operator. 597
15.1.3 Impact attenuation mats shall be labeled with testing certification to meet F355. 598
15.2 Weight Testing 599
15.2.1 Test Procedure: Ramp or Step: 600
15.2.1.1 Ensure the air inflatable device is inflated to its specified minimum air pressure. 601
15.2.1.2 Select an appropriate weight to be applied per Table 1 and create a mechanism that 602
allows it to be applied over a circle of approximately 15” diameter. 603
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604 Table 1 605
15.2.1.3 Place the weight indicated in Table 1, in turn, onto each test position selected on 606
ramp or step. Test positions shall be approximately 15” from the edge of the ramp and spaced in 607
15” intervals across the ramp or step. 608
15.2.1.4 Record whether the weight is held off the ground by the inflatable device or not. 609
15.2.2 Test Procedure: Play Surface Area: For playing surface areas consisting of different 610
heights, the following test shall be carried out on the section of the surface lowest to ground 611
level. 612
15.2.2.1 Ensure the air inflatable device is inflated to its specified minimum air pressure. 613
15.2.2.2 Select an appropriate weight to be applied per Table 2 and create a mechanism that 614
allows it to be applied over a circle of approximately 15” diameter. 615
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616 Table 2 617
15.2.2.3 Place the weight indicated in Table 2, at the following two test positions: (1) the 618
geometric center of the mattress surface (see Figure 20), and (2) a distance equivalent to the 619
height of the playing areas in from an open side or entry/exit point and in the center of that 620
opening (see Figure 21). 621
Figure 20: First test position
Figure 21: Second test position
622
15.2.2.4 Record whether the weight is held off the ground by the inflatable device or not. 623
16. Classification of Injuries and Illnesses 624
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16.1 The administration of emergency healthcare services and treatment shall be recorded as 625
deemed appropriate by the owner/ operator of the inflatable amusement to include the 626
documentation of all first aid treatment, including minor injury and illnesses, in a first aid log. 627
Injuries and illnesses other than minor injuries shall be reported on a first aid incident report in 628
accordance with 16.2. 629
16.2 First Aid incident report - A first aid incident report shall be completed for injuries or 630
illnesses that result in hospital admission or where medical treatment is given, recommended, or 631
may be required at a future date. All injuries or illness reported and other than those classified as 632
minor can be presumed to be in this category. 633
16.3 Recorded information- Information recorded in the first aid incident report shall 634
include, but not be limited to, the following, where applicable: 635
16.3.1 Date the incident occurred. 636
16.3.2 Name Address and telephone number of the person to receive emergency healthcare 637
service or treatment. 638
16.3.3 Age of the person to receive emergency healthcare service or treatment. 639
16.3.4 Manufacturer’s name, make and model of the inflatable amusement attraction where 640
or on which the incident occurred. 641
16.3.5 Name(s) of person(s) who installed the device prior to the incident and the designated 642
attendant(s) on duty when the incident occurred. Indicate whether the installer(s) and 643
attendant(s) were employed by the owner/operator or were designated by the renter. 644
16.3.6 Description of the injury or illness. Physical description of the injury or illness. 645
Description of the events causing and related to the incident. 646
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16.3.7 Description of the first aid service or treatment administered, including medications 647
given. 648
16.3.8 Additional information as deemed appropriate by the owner/ operator of the inflatable 649
amusement device. 650
17. Notification Requirements 651
17.1 Air inflatable devices represented as complying with this practice shall meet all 652
applicable requirements specified herein. Anyone representing compliance with this standard 653
shall keep such essential records as are necessary to document any claim that the requirements 654
within this standard have been met. 655
17.2 The owner/operator of an air inflatable device shall notify the appropriate 656
manufacturer(s) of any known incident that resulted in a serious injury within seven days of the 657
occurrence of the incidence. 658
17.3 The manufacturer shall notify the appropriate owner(s)/operator(s) of similar air 659
inflatable devices an incident that resulted in a serious injury promptly upon the determination by 660
the manufacturer that the incident is significantly repeatable. 661
17.3.1 Such manufacturer notification shall be a bulletin as specified in Practice F1193-06, 662
Section 14. 663
18. Manufacturer Responsibilities 664
18.1 Manufacturers and or suppliers of inflatable products must give proper warnings of the 665
hazards and risks of their products so that consumers (patrons) can make informed decisions 666
regarding their use. 667
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18.2 Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and/or retailers of inflatable amusement devices, 668
shall notify owner/operators of any supplemental bulletins or modifications of an air inflatable 669
device, and shall conform to Practices F1193 and F770. 670
18.3 Manufacturer shall supply a comprehensive instructional manual with each specific 671
design of air inflatable device, to include but not be limited to the following mandatory 672
information: 673
18.3.1 Static and dynamic dimensions of the air inflatable device. 674
18.3.2 Anchoring procedure with diagramed example per section 8. 675
18.3.3 Maximum tested wind load speed limitations of the air inflatable device per supplied 676
Professional Engineer calculations. 677
18.3.4 Diagramed entrance and exits of the device including emergency evacuation 678
procedures. 679
18.3.5 Instructions on identifying the Use Zone and addressing impact attenuation 680
requirements in egress and ingress areas, as well as any play area sections of the inflatable device 681
with a containment wall lower than the stated minimum heights in Section 9. 682
18.3.5.1 The inflatable manufacturer shall require owner/operators of air inflatable devices to 683
identify the Use Zone surrounding the air inflated device and utilize an attenuation mat in all 684
areas identified as being a risk of injury to users of the device. 685
18.3.6 Instructions on safe operation of the device by patrons to include, but not be limited 686
to, correct entering and exiting of the air inflatable device, correct positioning for sliding and 687
climbing within the device. 688
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18.3.7 Physical load limitations of the inflatable device to include minimum and maximum 689
height, and weights of patrons utilizing the air inflatable device along with maximum patron 690
capacity. 691
18.3.8 Daily use inspection check list for the air inflatable device. 692
18.3.9 Number and proper size of blowers to use to properly inflate the air inflatable device. 693
18.3.9.1 The manufacturer shall direct the operator of an air inflatable device that is used in 694
conjunction with water to use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (G.F.C.I) device per NFPA 70, 695
Article 525.23, Section 4. 696
18.3.10 As part of the purchase of an air inflatable device, the owner/operator shall be 697
provided with clear and concise inspection, maintenance, and repair instructions, prepared by the 698
designer/engineer and/or manufacturer, including, but not limited to: what, where, and how to 699
install, operate, inspect, maintain, and repair. 700
18.3.10.1 Inspection and maintenance instructions shall be in checklist format to facilitate 701
ease of use. 702
18.4 The manufacturer shall direct the owner of an inflatable device to provide all necessary 703
manufacturers’ operating information and requirements to the operator of the air inflatable 704
device prior to its use. This information shall include but may not be limited to the following: 705
18.4.1 Staffing – minimum number of operators and attendants required. 706
18.4.2 Supervision – where to locate staff to ensure constant observation of all parts of the 707
playing areas and all activity on the inflatable, admission of patrons to the air inflatable device in 708
a controlled and safe manner, keeping the entrance free from obstruction at all times and use of a 709
whistle or other method of signaling to attract the attention of the patrons. 710
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18.4.3 Environmental conditions affecting the setup of the device and patrons on the air 711
inflatable device (e.g., site suitability, heat, moisture, treatments for surfaces). 712
18.4.4 Patron’s dress code – suitable attire, including footwear, eyewear and removal of hard, 713
sharp, loose or dangerous objects. 714
18.4.5 Activity controls – separation of larger or more boisterous users from smaller or more 715
timid ones, prevention of patrons from climbing or hanging on the containing walls, prevention 716
of inappropriate activities (e.g., somersaults and rough play), restrictions on consumption of 717
food, drink and gum, and the enforcement of traversing position on slides. 718
18.4.6 The procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency or accident. This 719
includes, but is not limited to, a loss of supporting air pressure to the air inflatable device, 720
hazardous weather conditions, injury, etc. 721
18.4.7 Refueling procedures – evacuation of the inflatable prior to refueling of a blower 722
powered by an internal combustion engine or a generator must be stored away from the air 723
inflatable device while in use. 724
19. Owner/Operator Responsibilities 725
19.1 Inflatable amusement device owner/operators shall review the manufacturer’s 726
specifications, maintenance, and repair instructions in accordance with practice F-1193 and shall 727
have written operating procedures for the inflatable device, which are an integral part of their 728
installation, maintenance and attendant training programs. These procedures shall include but 729
not be limited to: 730
19.1.1 Setup, takedown, and storage specifications and procedures. 731
19.1.2 Service and adjustment procedures for all components used in conjunction with the 732
inflatable device. 733
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19.1.3 Daily, weekly, monthly, or other periodic minimum service and component checklists. 734
19.1.4 The manufacturer’s specifications for inflation, including specifications for number of 735
blowers and required rated capacity. 736
19.1.5 A plan for dealing with environmental conditions per 19.2. 737
19.1.6 Maximum capacity of device by weight and number of users. 738
19.1.7 Installation rules and guidelines per 19.3. 739
19.1.8 Patron rules and restrictions per 19.4. 740
19.1.9 Attendant rules and guidelines per 19.5. 741
19.1.10 Training procedures for installers and attendants per 19.3.9 and 19.5.5. 742
19.1.11 Signage or other systems to convey safety rules and restrictions to patrons and 743
attendants per 19.6. 744
19.2 Environmental Conditions - The owner/operator shall provide installers and attendants 745
with guidelines concerning environmental conditions that include, but are not limited to: 746
19.2.1 Requirements for conditions such as slope, topography, and surface type. 747
19.2.2 Requirements for proximity to hazards such as roads, cliffs, bodies of water, tree 748
branches, overhead wires or buried utilities. 749
19.2.2.1 Inflatable amusement devices shall not be placed within 20’ in any direction from 750
outdoor aerial utility lines. 751
19.2.2.2 Inflatable amusement devices shall not be placed in public right of ways and shall be 752
placed away from motor vehicle traffic. 753
19.2.3 Requirements for lightening, thunderstorm, gusting or sustained wind, rain, and other 754
hazardous weather-related conditions. 755
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19.2.3.1 Inflatable amusement devices shall NOT be used when the wind is in excess of the 756
maximum wind speed specified by the manufacturer. 757
19.3 Installation 758
19.3.1 The installer shall verify that all components and equipment are functioning to the 759
design and manufacture specifications. 760
19.3.2 Inflatable amusement devices shall be operated away from environmental hazards in 761
accordance with 19.2. 762
19.3.3 The inflatable amusement device shall be set up on an event site free from debris. A 763
protective ground cover shall be used underneath the inflatable device where appropriate in 764
accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. 765
19.3.4 The operator of an inflatable amusement device shall connect size and type of blower 766
to appropriate inflation points specified by the manufacturer for each inflatable amusement 767
device, keeping blower intake grates free from debris and avoiding kinks in blower shrouds. 768
19.3.4.1 An air inflatable device that is used in conjunction with water shall use a Ground 769
Fault Circuit Interrupters (G.F.C.I) device per NFPA 70, Article 525.23, Section 4. 770
19.3.5 The inflatable amusement device shall always be anchored and secured in accordance 771
with the manufacturer’s specifications using appropriate anchoring devices per Section 8. 772
19.3.5.1 Anchor ropes, tethers, or tie downs shall be attached at all anchor points to 773
adequately secure the inflatable amusement device. The anchor devices shall be in accordance 774
with manufacturer’s recommendations. 775
19.3.5.2 Operational automotive equipment or other mobile transportation device shall not be 776
used as an anchor point for inflatable amusement devices. 777
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19.3.6 The installer of an inflatable amusement device shall identify the Use Zone for the 778
device per manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that appropriate impact attenuation materials 779
are used to mitigate potential fall hazards of patrons. 780
19.3.7 Lighting shall be provided for operation of inflatable amusement devices, if necessary, 781
to provide the attendant clear visibility of all patrons using the equipment. 782
19.3.8 Signage or other safety education materials shall be installed according to the 783
owner/operator’s operational plan and Section 20. 784
19.3.9 The owner/operator shall provide training for installers on each inflatable device. 785
This training shall include, but not be limited to, the information in this section (19.3). 786
19.3.9.1 The owner/operator of an inflatable device shall verify in writing that the installer 787
assuming responsibility for installing the device has received training and understands the 788
intended use for the inflatable amusement device prior to allowing operation. 789
19.3.10 Rules for Installers 790
19.3.10.1 An inflatable amusement device shall only be installed by a person who has 791
successfully completed training specified by the owner/operator for that device. 792
19.3.10.2 Installers shall follow the procedures and rules specified in the training provided by 793
the owner/operator. 794
19.3.10.3 An inflatable amusement device shall not be installed by an individual who is 795
under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 796
19.4 Patron Rules and Restrictions – The owner/operator shall maintain a list of rules and 797
restrictions governing patron use of the inflatable amusement device that comply with the 798
manufacturer’s recommendations. They shall include, but not be limited to: 799
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19.4.1 Patrons must comply with height, weight, age and other physical requirements or 800
restrictions established by the manufacturer or the owner/operator. 801
19.4.1.1 The owner/operator or attendant of an inflatable device may deny entry to the device 802
to any person if, in the opinion of the owner/operator or attendant, the entry may cause above 803
normal exposure to risk of discomfort or injury to the person who desires to enter, or if, in the 804
opinion of the owner/operator or attendant, the entry may jeopardize the safety of other patrons, 805
attendants or employees. 806
19.4.2 Patrons must comply with restrictions on attire, jewelry, and eyeglasses that may 807
present a hazard to themselves, other patrons, or the equipment. 808
19.4.2.1 Hard, sharp, or dangerous objects (such as loose fitting jewelry, eyeglasses, buckles, 809
pens, pins, badges, etc.) must be removed prior to using an inflatable device. 810
19.4.2.2 Shoes must be removed prior to using an inflatable amusement device. 811
19.4.3 Patrons must refrain from chewing gum, eating, or drinking inside the inflatable 812
amusement device. 813
19.4.4 Patrons may not obstruct the entrance or exit, or play on the outside of the inflatable 814
amusement device. 815
19.4.5 Patrons may not climb and or hang on the interior walls of any inflatable amusement 816
device unless the surface is designed and designated for climbing use. 817
19.4.5.1 Front flips, back flips, or diving are strictly prohibited and can result in serious 818
injury. 819
19.4.5.2 Kicking, punching, or other aggressive bodily contact beyond intended use of the 820
inflatable amusement device is prohibited during participation. 821
19.5 Attendants 822
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19.5.1 The owner/ operator shall provide or designate the appropriate number of attendants 823
required when the inflatable device is in use to effectively monitor activity, control access to the 824
device and explain rules to patrons prior to participating. 825
19.5.2 Attendant minimum age shall be16 years of age or per local jurisdiction. 826
19.5.3 The attendant plan for an inflatable amusement device shall include specification of 827
areas for controlled ingress/egress, spectators, and use by patron participants. 828
19.5.4 In deciding how many attendants are required, the owner/operator shall consider 829
factors including but not limited to the following: 830
19.5.4.1 The manufacturer’s recommendation or requirement. 831
19.5.4.2 The number of patrons using the inflatable device. 832
19.5.4.3 The age of patrons using the inflatable device. 833
19.5.4.4 The environment in which the inflatable device is located. 834
19.5.4.5 Line of sight for attendants based on the positioning of the inflatable amusement 835
devices and controlled access to areas. 836
19.5.5 The owner/operator shall provide minimum attendant training on each inflatable 837
device. This training shall include the following, as applicable: 838
19.5.5.1 Number and location of attendants required to monitor unit when patrons are 839
participating. 840
19.5.5.2 Review of patron rules and restrictions, and warning signs posted on inflatable 841
amusement device with opportunity for questions and explanation. 842
19.5.5.3 Review of the hazardous weather policy, including safe evacuation of the device, 843
deflation, and guidelines on resuming operation after the hazardous conditions have passed. 844
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19.5.5.4 Written rules and warnings to be left with the attendant for use during operation of 845
the inflatable amusement device. This material may stress certain critical safety rules, such as 846
“NO FLIPS” or “Do NOT operate in high winds”, at the discretion of the owner/operator. 847
19.5.6 Guidelines on developing a method of operation to admit patrons to the inflatable 848
device in a controlled manner, help patrons understand the rules for safe intended use of device, 849
and enforce those rules while patrons are using the device. 850
19.5.6.1 Patrons shall be grouped together based on similar size using height, weight, and age 851
criteria for participation at the same time. Unevenly matched patrons shall not be allowed to use 852
the device together. 853
19.5.6.2 Children should only be allowed to participate with permission from their parent or 854
guardian, and while being supervised by a trained attendant. 855
19.5.6.3 Patrons shall not be permitted to crowd or overload individual sections of an air 856
inflatable amusement device, beyond the limits defined in the written operating procedure. 857
19.5.7 The owner/operator of an inflatable device shall verify in writing that the attendant 858
assuming responsibility for operating the device has received training and understands the 859
intended use for the inflatable amusement device prior to allowing operation. 860
19.5.8 Rules for Attendants 861
19.5.8.1 Attendants shall not operate an inflatable amusement device unless they have 862
successfully completed training specified by the owner/operator for that device. 863
19.5.8.2 Attendants shall operate the inflatable as specified in the training provided by the 864
owner/operator. 865
19.5.8.3 Attendants shall not allow participants on an inflatable amusement device during 866
inflation or deflation of the inflatable unit. 867
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19.5.8.4 Attendants shall remain stationed appropriately, according to the training plan, in 868
order to clearly observe all participants are adhering to safety warnings and rules for safe 869
participation. 870
19.5.8.5 Attendants shall incorporate the use of a whistle or signaling device and take 871
appropriate action at the first sign of misbehavior involving a violation of the posted rules. 872
19.5.8.6 Attendants shall not operate any inflatable amusement device while under the 873
influence of drugs or alcohol. 874
19.6 Signage for Patrons and Attendants – The owner/operator shall clearly post signage at 875
the entrance of the device indicating prohibited behaviors and safe participation guidelines that 876
can be understood by adults and children. The signs should include: 877
19.6.1 Signage requirements provided by the manufacturer. 878
19.6.2 Warning to cease use during high winds or inclement weather conditions. 879
19.6.3 The maximum capacity by height, weight, or number of users as per manufacturer 880
recommendations. 881
19.6.4 Patron rules and restrictions identified in section 19.4, using both illustrations and 882
words to explain rules for safe participation. 883
19.6.5 Warning of assumed risks involving participation on an inflatable amusement device 884
that require physical exertion, movement, and the inherent health risks involved. 885
19.6.6 A notice that participants should NOT use the inflatable device if they are currently 886
under the supervised care of a physician, have existing head, neck, back, muscle or joint injuries, 887
or may be pregnant. 888
19.6.7 Reminders to attendants regarding critical safety rules identified in 19.5. 889
19.7 Maintenance and Inspection Program 890
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19.7.1 Based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, each owner/operator shall implement 891
a program of maintenance, testing, and inspection providing for the duties and responsibilities 892
necessary in the care of each inflatable amusement device. This program of maintenance shall 893
include a checklist to be made available to each person performing the regularly scheduled 894
maintenance on each device. The owner/operator’s checklist (on a device-by-device basis) shall 895
include but not be limited to: 896
19.7.1.1 Description of preventive maintenance assignments to be performed. 897
19.7.1.2 Description of inspections to be performed. 898
19.7.1.3 Special safety instructions, where applicable. 899
19.7.1.4 Any additional recommendations of the owner/operator. 900
19.7.2 The owner/operator of the inflatable amusement device shall provide training for each 901
person performing the regularly scheduled maintenance on the device, pertaining to their 902
assigned duties. This training shall include, but not be limited to, the following: 903
19.7.2.1 Instruction on inspection and preventive maintenance procedures. 904
19.7.2.2 Instruction on the specific duties of the assigned position. 905
19.7.3 This information shall be logged and kept for each inflatable device for a period of (12 906
months) from date of last entry. The log information shall remain updated for the life span of the 907
inflatable device. The logged information shall include but not be limited to the following. 908
19.7.3.1 Daily use inspections checklist completed per manufacturer’s instructions for that 909
device, with date entry. 910
19.7.3.2 Dated and descriptive repairs made to the inflatable device, if any, since last 911
inspection. 912
19.7.3.3 Name of person(s) making updates to log. 913
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19.7.4 The owner/operator of an inflatable amusement device shall promptly notify the 914
manufacturer of an incident, failure, or malfunction which, in his judgment, seriously affects the 915
continued proper operation of the device and is information of which the manufacturer should be 916
aware. 917
20. Patron Education 918
20.1 Instructions, when required by the manufacturer, owner or operator concerning air 919
inflatable device rules shall be delivered to patrons prior to participation on the air inflatable 920
device. 921
20.2 Instructions may be delivered to patrons using video, audio, or computer based 922
programs, prerecorded spiel, written document, signage, verbal instruction or other delivery 923
method approved by the owner or operator. 924
20.3 The owner/operator shall convey to participants the substance of the patron 925
responsibility requirements found in Section 21. 926
21. Patron Responsibility 927
21.1 There are inherent risks in the participation in or on any air inflatable device. Patrons of 928
an air inflatable device, by participation, accept the risks inherent in such participation of which 929
the ordinary prudent person is or should be aware. Patrons and parents or guardians granting 930
permission have a duty to exercise good judgment and act in a responsible manner while using 931
the air inflatable device and to obey all oral or written warnings prior to or during participation. 932
21.2 Patrons and those chaperoning child patrons have a duty to not participate in or on any 933
inflatable device when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 934
21.3 Patrons and those chaperoning child patrons have a duty to properly use all air inflatable 935
device safety equipment that is provided for participation. 936
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50
21.4 Patrons and those chaperoning child patrons have a duty to not allow participation in or 937
on any inflatable device if the participant has preexisting medical conditions, circulatory 938
conditions, heart or lung conditions, recent surgeries, back or neck conditions, high blood 939
pressure, any history of spine, musculoskeletal or head injury, or may be pregnant. 940
21.5 Patrons and those chaperoning child patrons have a duty to conform with or meet 941
height, weight, or age restrictions imposed by the manufacturer or owner to use or participate in 942
the air inflatable device activity. 943
21.6 Before participating in an air inflatable activity, patrons have a duty to consider their 944
own physical, mental and emotional limitations, as well as their level of experience using 945
equipment of this type. 946
21.6.1 Parents and chaperones of child patrons have a duty to consider the suitability of the 947
inflatable activity for the child. In addition to the criteria described in 21.6, consideration should 948
include situational factors, such as the child expressing fear, being over-tired, or being too 949
rambunctious to follow rules and instructions. 950
21.7 Patrons and those chaperoning child patrons have a duty to remove restricted attire from 951
participants, including hard, sharp, or dangerous objects (such as buckles, eyeglasses, pens, 952
purses, badges, and so forth) 953
21.8 Patrons have a duty to avoid uncontrolled or overly aggressive bodily contract with 954
other patrons. 955
21.9 Patrons have a duty to avoid intentionally crowding or overloading individual sections 956
of the air inflatable device. 957
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51
21.10 Patrons have a duty to not attempt flips, dives, or other movements that might result in 958
landing on the head or neck. Serious injury, paralysis, or death, can occur even when landing on 959
the air inflatable device bed. 960
22. Keywords 961
22.1 amusement device; attendant; basketball; bounce; challenge course; climbing wall; 962
combination unit; construction; design; dodgeball; family entertainment center; fitness center; 963
game; gym; gymnastics; inflatable device; inspection; interactive play; jump center; 964
maintenance; misting station; movie screen; obstacle course; operation; recreational equipment; 965
slide; sports equipment; trampoline court; volleyball 966
967
968
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ANNEX 969
(Mandatory Information) 970
A1. 971
A1.1 972
A1.1.1 973
974
975
APPENDIX 976
(Nonmandatory Information) 977
Introduction: This appendix has been added to propose a series of options or instructions 978
that offer direction without recommending a definite course of action. The purpose is to 979
offer guidance based on a consensus of viewpoints but not to establish a standard practice 980
to follow in all cases. The intent is to increase the awareness of the user concerning 981
available information within a given subject area, while providing information from which 982
subsequent programs may be derived. 983
X1. 984
X1.1 Windspeed limits 985
X1.1.1 Various manufacturers’ recommend maximum windspeeds from 15 to 20 mph 986
depending on device specifications; however, attendants should unload and deflate any inflatable 987
amusement device when the wind speed exceeds 25 mph. 988
989