From roller coasters to ferris wheels, modern amusement parks are fun for all ages with a wide variety of rides available.
Supporting these rides are standards, one of which was recently revised, AS 3533.4.1:2018, Amusement rides and devices, Part 4.1: Specific requirements—Land-borne inflatable devices.
The standard looks specifically at inflatable devices including bounce houses, giant slides and obstacle courses. To help protect the health and safety of both operating staff and patrons, the standard provides guidance on how these devices should be designed, manufactured and operated.
“While these devices are seen as items of child’s play, the health and wellbeing of those operating them is quite the opposite,” said CEO of Standards Australia, Dr Bronwyn Evans. “Evidence of the industry’s commitment to safety is demonstrated in a number of new and revised clauses, such as the addition of a risk assessment plan covering emergency situations.”
Anthea Hammon, Chair of the Technical Committee covering amusement rides and devices, shared the motivation behind the new standard.
“The standard needed revising to address the larger land-borne inflatables that didn’t exist when the standard was first written. It now has updated requirements for flammability and structural integrity, and new requirements for device setup and wall height measurements.
“The industry is constantly innovating, leading to the creation of new rides and devices that are bigger and better than ever before. The committee will continue to work with Standards Australia to continuously improve the safety of amusement parks across Australia,” said Ms Hammon.