INFLATABLE SAFETY & SUPERVISION PROCEDURE

Oban Kids Thrive CIC

1. Purpose

This procedure outlines the safe use, supervision, and maintenance of inflatable equipment owned and operated by Oban Kids Thrive CIC.

It applies to all sessions where inflatable equipment is present, whether indoors or outdoors.

2. Equipment Standards

  • All inflatable equipment will comply with UK safety standards.
  • Equipment will undergo annual inspection and testing (PIPA or equivalent where applicable).
  • Inspection certificates will be retained on file.
  • Equipment will be visually inspected before each use.

A log will record:

  • Date of use
  • Condition check
  • Supervisor name

3. Location of Use

Indoor Use (Primary Use)

  • Used in suitable halls or indoor venues.
  • Adequate ceiling height confirmed.
  • Clear safety perimeter maintained (minimum 1 metre clearance).

Outdoor Use (Dry Weather Only)

  • Used only in suitable dry conditions.
  • Wind speed will be monitored.
  • Maximum safe operating wind speed: 24mph (or manufacturer guidance if lower).
  • Equipment will be anchored according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Use will cease immediately if wind or weather conditions change.

4. Age Group Separation

Inflatables will not be used by mixed age groups simultaneously.

Sessions will be divided into age ranges such as:

  • 5–8 years
  • 9–12 years
  • 13–18 years (where appropriate)

Clear rotation systems will be used during mixed events.

Maximum user numbers will follow manufacturer guidance.

5. Supervision

  • A trained adult supervisor will be present at all times while the inflatable is in use.
  • Supervisor-to-child ratio will reflect the size and age group of participants.
  • For vulnerable sessions (no parent present), minimum two adults present at all times.
  • Supervisors will enforce:
    • No rough play
    • No climbing on walls
    • No shoes
    • No sharp objects
    • No food or drink on equipment

The inflatable will not be left unattended while inflated.

6. Parent-Supervised Model

For standard sessions:

  • Parents/carers remain responsible for their children.
  • Supervisors oversee equipment safety, not sole childcare.

For supported/vulnerable sessions:

  • PVG-checked adults provide structured supervision.
  • Sign-in and sign-out procedure implemented.

7. Emergency Procedure

In the event of injury:

  • Inflatable use stops immediately.
  • First aider attends.
  • Incident recorded in Accident Log.
  • Parent/carer informed immediately.
  • Serious incidents reported in line with safeguarding procedures.

8. Maintenance & Storage

  • Equipment will be dried before storage.
  • Stored securely.
  • Regular cleaning schedule maintained.

9. Review

Reviewed annually or following any incident.

Policy Date: 11/02/26
Review Date: 11/02/27

Approved by:
Bryanna Black
Director & Designated Safeguarding Lead
Oban Kids Thrive CIC

DOWNLOADABLE FORMAT

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Az5aopnTwm_gnpIJB9bbQF0MHFSC6vN6FNhawGx9okI/edit?usp=sharing