What Bouncy Castles Can I Hire Out?

In recent years, the UK has witnessed a surge in the popularity of bouncy castles, becoming a staple at children's parties, community events, and fairs. However, amidst the fun and excitement, concerns over safety have prompted regulatory measures, particularly regarding the hiring out of toy bouncy castles. Let's delve into why these inflatable attractions are not suitable for hire in the UK.

Safety Regulations and Standards

The safety of children is paramount, and the UK has stringent regulations in place to ensure that inflatable play equipment meets rigorous safety standards. The British Standard BS EN 14960 sets out comprehensive guidelines for the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of inflatable play equipment, including bouncy castles. Compliance with these standards is crucial to minimize risks and prevent accidents.

Toy Bouncy Castles vs. Commercial Grade Bouncy Castles

One of the primary reasons toy bouncy castles cannot be hired out in the UK is their construction and design. Toy bouncy castles are typically smaller, lighter, and less robust than their commercial-grade counterparts. They are often intended for domestic use and may not meet the safety requirements outlined in BS EN 14960. These inflatables may lack essential safety features such as reinforced seams, secure anchoring systems, and adequate materials. Anchorage points are often weaker and lack enough strength for true safety. 

Fig.1 Examples of Toy Bouncy Castles

Risk of Accidents and Injuries

Using toy bouncy castles for hire poses significant risks to both children and operators. Their lightweight construction makes them more susceptible to tipping over or collapsing, especially in adverse weather conditions or when improperly anchored. Additionally, the absence of safety features increases the likelihood of accidents such as falls, collisions, and entrapments, leading to injuries ranging from bruises and sprains to more severe trauma.

Legal Liability and Responsibility

Hiring out toy bouncy castles without ensuring compliance with safety regulations can have serious legal consequences. Operators have a duty of care to provide a safe environment for users, and failure to do so can result in liability for accidents and injuries. In the event of an incident, operators may face legal action, fines, and reputational damage, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety standards and best practices.

Educating Consumers and Promoting Safety

While toy bouncy castles may seem like a cost-effective option for entertainment, their inherent risks outweigh the benefits. It's crucial for consumers to understand the importance of hiring commercial-grade bouncy castles from reputable operators who prioritize safety and compliance. By raising awareness about safety standards and encouraging responsible hiring practices, we can safeguard the well-being of children and ensure that inflatable play remains a source of joy and excitement for years to come.

In conclusion, the decision to prohibit the hiring out of toy bouncy castles in the UK stems from a commitment to prioritising safety and mitigating risks. By adhering to stringent regulations, promoting awareness, and investing in quality inflatables, we can create a safer environment for children to enjoy inflatable play without compromising on fun.

What if the inflatable I want to purchase and hire out is not in EN14960?

Don't panic! There are plenty of inflatables which are not covered in EN14960, examples would be most inflatable games such as bungee runs, football shootouts, football darts, inflatable basketball games and more. Further examples would be inflatable tents such as nightclubs, shelters, inflatable marquees and such. This list is endless in this respect.

The fact they are not in EN14960 does not mean you cannot hire them out. You do however need to be vigilant and ideally want to purchase them from reputable manufacturers who are building with similar specifications to EN14960. As of 2024, PIPA has now added the ability to PIPA tag Non-Ride on Games, so the scope for tagging is forever growing. 

We only use high quality materials for all our inflatables, whatever the use, so you can be sure they are fit for purpose when hiring them out.