How Standards Protect the Inflatable Industry and Its Future
In the inflatable play industry, safety standards are the backbone of professionalism and trust. While often unseen by customers, these standards, such as BS EN14960, shape every aspect of our business operations, ensuring not only public safety but also the sustainability of the industry. In this blog, we will explore the vital role that standards play, how they’ve evolved, and why adhering to them is critical for both business owners and the safety of the public.
Why Safety Standards Like BS EN14960 Matter
Standards such as BS EN14960 were developed to provide a framework for safety in inflatable equipment. They dictate everything from anchorage requirements to material specifications, ensuring that products are designed and maintained to minimize risks. While these standards are technically not laws, they are legally enforceable in the event of an incident. They provide the basis for determining liability in court, as seen in the tragic case of Summer Grant in 2016.
This incident, where a bouncy castle was not properly anchored, led to the conviction of the operators involved. The court used BS EN14960 as a point of reference to determine gross negligence, proving that adherence to standards is not just a matter of good practice — it can be the difference between a thriving business and legal consequences.
A Reactive System: Why Standards Are Key
Our society and legal systems are primarily reactive rather than proactive. It would be impossible to proactively enforce every safety guideline across all industries without significantly overburdening resources. For instance, if every minor discrepancy — like a street bench being 20mm too high — required police investigation and legal action, the system would collapse.
Instead, safety standards allow businesses to operate with a clear understanding of what is expected, giving operators the opportunity to "do the right thing." Authorities can then focus their resources on reacting to genuine incidents, ensuring investigations and enforcement occur where they are most needed. In the inflatable play industry, BS EN14960 functions as this proactive guideline, enabling operators to maintain high standards while empowering law enforcement to act effectively when things go wrong.
How Standards Are Enforced Through the Court System
One of the most powerful ways that standards like BS EN14960 become "as good as law" is through their application in court. When incidents occur, the standard’s guidelines are used to determine whether operators acted responsibly. Failure to comply can lead to convictions, fines, or even imprisonment.
For example, in the aforementioned case of Summer Grant, BS EN14960 was pivotal in determining the negligence of the operators. The lack of adequate anchoring—a clear violation of the standard—led to their conviction and sentencing. This case underscores the importance of adhering to standards, not just for safety but also to protect businesses from legal repercussions.
The Role of Manufacturers and PIPA Testing
Manufacturers and testing organizations play a critical role in upholding these standards. Companies like BetterBounce are at the forefront of promoting compliance through education, testing, and product development. All inflatables should undergo annual testing by a competent person to ensure compliance with BS EN14960. This not only guarantees safety but also protects businesses from potential legal risks.
Random inspections by regulatory bodies have become more frequent due to pressure from industry leaders and organizations like PIPA. These inspections are essential for identifying non-compliance and ensuring that the industry maintains a high level of professionalism. As a manufacturer, BetterBounce is committed to supporting these efforts by producing high-quality inflatables that meet or exceed safety standards.
Why Compliance is Good for Business
Adhering to safety standards is not just about avoiding legal trouble; it’s also a smart business decision. Compliance builds trust with customers, promotes a positive reputation, and reduces the likelihood of accidents. It demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and customer care, which can set your business apart in a competitive market.
Investing in annual testing, proper anchoring, and staff training may seem like additional costs, but they pay dividends in the long run. A safe, compliant business is more likely to secure repeat customers, positive reviews, and long-term success.
BetterBounce: Supporting Safety and Compliance
At BetterBounce, we take safety seriously. With over 16,000 days of combined industry experience between our founders, we understand the challenges operators face. That’s why we’re committed to providing high-quality products and resources to help you succeed.
Our health and safety section (available here) offers valuable information on BS EN14960 compliance, PIPA testing, and more. Whether you’re a new operator or an experienced professional, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Conclusion
In the inflatable play industry, safety standards like BS EN14960 are more than just guidelines — they’re the foundation of a safe, sustainable, and successful business. By adhering to these standards, operators can protect their customers, their reputation, and their future. At BetterBounce, we’re proud to play a role in promoting safety and compliance across the industry. Let’s work together to ensure a brighter, safer future for inflatable play.
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