The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is reminding people of the risks associated with inflatable amusement devices, like castles, following a recent incident.
Inflatable amusement devices are popular at fairs, festivals and private functions, but they can pose serious risks to children if appropriate safety measures aren’t in place.
“Tragically, a number of children have been killed or injured in Australia and overseas in incidents involving inflatable amusements,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.
“These incidents often occur when strong winds lift the inflatables into the air, or when children fall onto hard surfaces or fall from height onto other children.”
“We want to ensure that those who are hiring or operating these devices are aware of the risks and management strategies so that children are not harmed.”
Under the Australian Consumer Law, businesses have obligations to ensure that the sports services and activities they provide are safe.
Suppliers, landlords and operators should take note of the requirements of the Australian Standard for inflatable amusement devices (AS 3533.4.1-2018) which aims to manage the risks with inflatable devices, including the need for:
- adequate anchorage
- operation within allowable wind speed limits
- appropriate set up and supervision by trained operators
- a risk assessment that considers the specific conditions of the site
“We are also urging parents and carers to be vigilant. Before allowing your child to use an inflatable, check that it is adequately anchored and supervised, and that the weather conditions aren’t windy or gusty,” Ms Rickard said.
The ACCC has worked with state and territory consumer regulators to develop a checklist for businesses and a fact sheet for consumers on inflatable amusement device safety.
Checklist for businesses
Businesses that hire or operate inflatable amusement devices should:
- Ensure the device complies with AS 3533.4.1-2018
- Check the device has been regularly maintained and inspected
- Ensure operators are trained and supervised
- Monitor weather conditions and have an emergency plan
- Secure the device with adequate anchorage
- Set up the device away from hazards like power lines and trees
- Ensure the device is not overcrowded
- Supervise children at all times
Advice for parents and carers
Parents and carers should:
- Check the device is properly anchored and supervised
- Ensure weather conditions are safe (not windy or gusty)
- Make sure children are not overcrowding the device
- Remove shoes, glasses and sharp objects before use
- Follow the operator’s instructions and age recommendations
- Supervise children at all times
Recent incidents
In 2021, a young child was seriously injured in Tasmania when an inflatable castle was lifted into the air by wind. The incident is currently under investigation.
In 2018, a child died in NSW when an inflatable castle was lifted into the air at a school fete.
These tragic incidents highlight the importance of following safety requirements when using inflatable amusement devices.
More information
For more information about inflatable amusement device safety, including the checklist for businesses and fact sheet for consumers, visit the Product Safety Australia website.
Businesses and consumers can also sign up to receive email updates on product safety issues.
