Ensuring the safety of those who use your inflatables should always be your top priority. One crucial aspect of safety is proper anchoring of the inflatable, which is regulated by EN14960 for bouncy castle hire.
Each anchor point must be used and supported to achieve 167kn of resistance in a 24mph wind. Achieving this can be done through several methods, such as using pegs, sandbags, water bails, Thunderbolts, or raw bolts, or tethering to any fixed object that is suitable for resisting 167kn.
It's essential to always check the weather forecast, and you must adhere to the regulations to avoid any potential accidents. You must be confident in the anchor points used for each inflatable, particularly in harsh weather conditions. In fact, the failure to anchor inflatables properly has caused accidents and fatalities in the past.
Bouncy castle couple go to jail!
In 2016, a seven-year-old girl named Summer Grant lost her life after being blown away in a bouncy castle that was not anchored correctly by fairground workers at an Easter fair in Harlow, Essex. The gust of wind lifted the inflatable from its moorings and sent it cartwheeling 300 metres down a hill. William Thurston, 29, and Shelby Thurston, 26, who were responsible for anchoring the bouncy castle, were found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence and a health and safety offence, resulting in a three-year jail sentence.
It's vital to take every precaution possible and ensure your inflatables are anchored securely to avoid any unfortunate accidents. Proper anchoring can be achieved by following EN14960 guidelines and using the appropriate equipment, such as specific pegs designed to achieve 167kn, ropes or chains rated over 163kg, or Thunderbolts or raw bolts rated over 163kg.
Safety should always be the top priority for bouncy castle hire companies, and proper anchoring is crucial to ensure that the inflatables are safe for use. If you're unsure about how to anchor your inflatables properly or need advice, it's best to consult with experts in the field to ensure the safety of your customers.
Please Click here to learn more or to buy a copy of EN14960
<< Return to news