Why BS EN14960 Is as Good As Law in the Inflatable Industry
In the UK, safety standards like BS EN14960 play a critical role in ensuring the safe operation of inflatables such as bouncy castles. While not written explicitly as law, this standard is used in courtrooms to establish negligence in accidents. Its role highlights why adhering to safety standards is essential for every operator and manufacturer.
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Reactive vs. Proactive Safety
Our society operates on a reactive safety system rather than a proactive one. If the law required every potential safety concern to be preemptively investigated, resources would be overwhelmed. Imagine a world where a bench being 20mm too high or a parking bay 20mm too narrow triggered immediate police involvement, arrests, and court investigations. This system would be unmanageable, unnecessarily draining time, money, and energy. It would physically cripple the economy and not be sustainable at all. With all "Crimes" now being treated equally, the more serious crimes that keep our society in tow would be watered down and the system simply could not cope.
Instead, standards like BS EN14960 exist to encourage businesses to choose the right path. In 99% of cases, operators follow safety standards voluntarily, avoiding problems before they occur. However, when something does go tragically wrong, the authorities can step in, and the standards form the foundation of legal action.
Case Study: The Summer Grant Tragedy
This tragic reality became clear during the case of William and Shelby Thurston following the 2016 death of Summer Grant, a seven-year-old girl who died when an inflatable was carried 300 meters by strong winds in Harlow, Essex.
The investigation found that the inflatable was not “adequately anchored” to the ground, a fundamental requirement outlined in BS EN14960. In court, the En14960 was benchmark to prove gross negligence, and the Thurstons were sentenced to three years in prison.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the importance of following BS EN14960. For all operators, manufacturers, and hirers, the standard is more than just a recommendation — in serious cases, it is treated as the law. the same is the case for many other prosecution over the years and makes EN14960 as good as law.
What Does This Mean for the Inflatable Industry?
Because the standard directly protects lives, every business in this industry must comply with BS EN14960. Compliance requires:
- Annual Testing: All inflatables must be tested annually by a competent person to meet BS EN14960 requirements.
- Proper Anchoring: Follow anchoring guidelines meticulously to ensure equipment remains stable in all weather conditions.
- Wind Speed Monitoring: Use proper wind speed measuring equipment as recommended, ensuring inflatables are shut down when wind conditions become unsafe.
- Many other technicalities which can be found within EN14960 our our directors guide to safety which is available on request.
Betterbounce's Commitment to Safety
At Betterbounce, we understand how vital these standards are. We are proud to have played a key role in pressing for greater accountability and supporting random inspections across the industry, alongside PIPA and other safety advocates. Moving forward, we remain committed to pushing for safer operations to protect businesses and the public.
The Bottom Line: Do Things Right
BS EN14960 is not just about ticking boxes, it’s about preventing tragic accidents and protecting lives. While it may not be officially titled as "law," in the eyes of the court, it is treated as such when negligence occurs. By complying with this standard, businesses demonstrate their commitment to safety, professionalism, and responsibility.
To learn more about inflatable safety requirements, annual testing, and compliance, visit our Health & Safety section here:
Better Bounce Health & Safety.
By taking the right steps, we can all play our part in keeping this industry safe, thriving, and trusted by families everywhere.
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