ASTM F2374-22

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:F2374 −22
Standard Practice for
Design, Manufacture, Operation, and Maintenance of
Inflatable Amusement Devices
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2374; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.1.5 The modification requirements in Section 5.3 of this
standard shall not apply to major modifications performed
1.1 This practice establishes criteria for the Design,
before the publication date of this standard practice.
Manufacture,Installation,Operation,Maintenance,Inspection,
1.2 This practice specifically excludes the following types
Training,Auditing and Major Modification of commercial use
of inflatable devices:
Inflatable Amusement Devices. These devices are made of
flexible fabric, inflated by one or more blowers, and rely upon 1.2.1 Inflatable devices marketed directly to consumers for
airpressuretomaintaintheirshape.Thesedevicesaredesigned privatehomeusebychildren.Thosedevicesarecoveredunder
for patron activities that include, but are not limited to, a separate standard, Consumer Safety Specification F2729-18.
bouncing, climbing, sliding, obstacle course running and inter- 1.2.2 Inflatable devices that are used for professional exhi-
active play.
bition or stunt work; safety and rescue activities; aerial or
aviation structures or devices; exhibit floats; or similar inflat-
1.1.1 Amusement devices covered by this standard are used
able devices.
primarily in amusement, entertainment or recreational applica-
tions. Such applications include, but are not limited to, amuse- 1.2.3 Inflatables that do not have a floor affixed to the
ment parks, theme parks, water parks, family entertainment inflatable structure (that is, the ground is exposed inside an
centers, rental companies, fitness centers, gyms, gymnastics inflated perimeter).
facilities, jump centers, sports facilities, skate parks, camps,
1.2.4 Inflatable devices that require a sudden loss of air to
schools, shopping centers, temporary special events, carnivals,
perform their intended function (for example, stunt bag style
fairs, festivals and municipal parks.
inflatable impact attenuation devices).
1.1.2 This practice includes land-based inflatable amuse- 1.2.5 Inflatable devices that are designed primarily as float-
ment devices that are designed for dry use, wet use, or a ing devices to be installed in or on bodies of water.
combination of wet/dry use.
1.2.6 Stand-alone captured air inflatable devices that are
designed to contain the patron within the elevated pressure
1.1.3 Inflatableamusementdevicescoveredbythisstandard
space; are designed to be mobile during its intended use; or
have inflation systems that:
containlessthan270ft ofairanddonotincludeananchoring
1.1.3.1 Require air to be constantly supplied in order to
or ballasting system. Examples include, but are not limited to:
maintain structure, form, shape or integrity (continuous air
awaterwalkingball,asportsball,ahamsterball,ahill-rolling
inflatable amusement device); or
ball.
1.1.3.2 Maintain inflation without the need for constant air
1.2.7 Constant air membranes that incorporate a permanent
supply (captured air inflatable amusement device); or
sub-terrain box or pit to form the bottom and sides of the
1.1.3.3 Incorporate both methods of inflation into a single
pressure vessel (for example, jumping pillow devices).
device.
1.2.8 Air inflated devices designated to decompress or
1.1.4 The design and manufacturing requirements in Sec-
redistribute foam cubes contained in a trampoline court foam
tions 5 and 6 of this standard shall not apply to inflatable
pit.
amusement devices manufactured before the publication date
1.3 This practice includes an annex (mandatory), which
of this standard practice.
provides additional information (for example, rationale,
background, interpretations, drawings, commentary, and so
forth) to improve the user’s understanding and application of
ThispracticeisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeF24onAmusement
the criteria presented in this practice. The annex information
Rides and Devices and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F24.61 on
shall be interpreted as mandatory criteria.
Adventure Attractions.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2022. Published October 2022. Originally
1.4 This practice includes an appendix (non-mandatory),
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as F2374–21a. DOI:
10.1520/F2374-22. which provides additional information (for example, rationale,
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2374−22
background, interpretations, drawings, commentary, and so 2.3 NFPA Standards (National Fire Protection Associa-
forth) to improve the user’s understanding and application of tion):
the criteria presented in this practice. The appendix informa- NFPA 70National Electric Code (NEC)
tion shall not be interpreted as mandatory criteria. NFPA701Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propa-
gation of Textiles and Films
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
which provide explanatory materials. These notes and foot-
3. Terminology
notes shall not be considered requirements of the standard.
3.1 Fortermsassociatedwithamusementridesanddevices,
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the definitions are in accordance with Terminology F747-15.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
The terms in this section are contained in that terminology
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
standard.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.2 Definitions:
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.2.1 designer/engineer, n—party(s) that establishes and
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- describes the configuration of the amusement ride or device,
establishes strength and fatigue life, designs and develops
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- electrical/electronic control systems, and defines inspection
criteria.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.2.2 major modification, n—any change in either the struc-
tural or operational characteristics of the ride or device which
2. Referenced Documents
will alter its performance from that specified in the manufac-
2.1 ASTM Standards: turer’s design criteria.
D3787Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—
3.2.3 serious injuries/illnesses, n—a personal injury/illness
Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
that results in death, dismemberment, significant
D5446Practice for Determining Physical Properties of
disfigurement, permanent loss of the use of a body organ,
Fabrics, Yarns, and Sewing Thread Used in Inflatable
member, function, or system, a compound fracture, or other
Restraints
significantinjury/illnessthatrequiresimmediateadmissionand
D6951/D6951MTest Method for Use of the Dynamic Cone
overnight hospitalization and observation by a licensed physi-
Penetrometer in Shallow Pavement Applications
cian.
F355TestMethodforImpactAttenuationofPlayingSurface
Systems, Other Protective Sport Systems, and Materials
4. Significance and Use
Used for Athletics, Recreation and Play
4.1 The purpose of this practice is to delineate information
F747Terminology Relating to Amusement Rides and De-
regarding the design, manufacture, installation, operation, and
vices
maintenance of inflatable amusement devices.
F1193Practice for Quality, Manufacture, and Construction
of Amusement Rides and Devices
5. Design
F1292Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing
5.1 This section establishes information and procedures for
Materials Within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment
the design of inflatable amusement devices and major modifi-
F1772Specification for Harnesses for Rescue and Sport
cations to inflatable amusement devices.
Activities
F2291PracticeforDesignofAmusementRidesandDevices
5.2 Inflatable amusement devices with platforms or play
F2375Practice for Design, Manufacture, Installation and areas higher than 25 ft (7.6 m) above the ground shall also
Testing of Climbing Nets and Netting/Mesh used in
require compliance with the applicable parts of Practice
Amusement Rides, Devices, Play Areas and Attractions F2291-20.
F2397Specification for Protective Headgear Used in Com-
5.3 Parts of the Inflatable Device:
bative Sports
5.3.1 Obstacle—An inflated component that is intended for
F2729Consumer Safety Specification for Constant Air In-
patrons to climb over, run through, etc., as they progress
flatable Play Devices for Home Use
through the inflatable amusement device.
2.2 ASCE Standards (American Society for Civil Engi-
5.3.2 Platform—A horizontally-oriented inflated surface on
neers):
which a user is permitted to stand or traverse (for example, the
ASCE 7Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other
transition landing area on a slide).
Structures
5.3.3 Playing Area—Space in or on the inflatable that is
intended for patron play.
5.3.4 Ramp or Step—An inclined section or section of
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
intermediate height aiding patrons as they enter and exit the
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
3 4
Available fromAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 1801Alexander Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, http://www.asce.org. Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
F2374−22
playing area of the inflatable, making the transition between 5.5.3.1 For inflatable devices intended for use by children
the height of the playing area and the ground. only, the design weight per patron shall be, at a minimum, the
weight specified for a child patron in Subsection 8.6.2 of
5.3.5 Run-out—Intended deceleration zone at the bottom of
a slide. Practice F2291-20.
5.5.3.2 For all other inflatable devices, the design weight
5.3.6 Height Measurements:
per patron shall be, at a minimum, the weight specified for an
5.3.6.1 Playing Area or Platform—The height of a playing
adult patron in Subsection 8.6.1 of Practice F2291-20.
area or platform shall be measured, without load, from the
5.5.4 All inflatables with an inflated floor must pass the
highest point intended to support patrons to the lower bound
applicableTestMethodsforWeightBearingSurfacesinAnnex
(see Fig. 1). Typically, this is ground level or the surface of a
A5.
lower-level inflated playing area or platform.
5.5.5 The design shall be sufficient to allow for evacuation
5.3.6.2 Containment Wall—The height of a containment
in the event of deflation during patron use, including, at a
wallshallbemeasured,withoutload,fromthehighestpointon
minimum:
the surface of the adjacent platform or playing area to the
5.5.5.1 The device shall have a means of egress in case of
highest point on the wall (see Fig. 2). For slides, the height
emergency evacuation.
measurement is taken at 90° to the slope (see Fig. 1).
5.5.5.2 Design elements shall be employed to prevent or
5.4 Drawings, Records and Testing:
minimize risks to patrons when the inflation air supply is
5.4.1 Drawings and Records—Records shall be kept in
interrupted. These shall include, but not be limited to, the
accordance with Subsection 5.6 of Practice F2291-20.
following:
5.4.2 Testing—Document and record the testing perfor-
(1)A non-return valve or flap shall be fitted to the blower
mance of inflatable amusement devices in accordance with the
or inflatable device.
tests given in Practice F1193-18a.
(2)The inflation tube shall be placed at the lowest part of
the structure.
5.5 Structural Integrity and Inflation:
(3)The structural design shall prevent rapid collapse of
5.5.1 Inflatable playing areas, platforms, steps, and ramps
elevated platforms or collapse of ceilings and walls onto the
shall support the weight of the patrons for whom the inflatable
patrons.
is designed.
(4)Inflatable devices with platforms or play areas higher
5.5.2 The inflatable device shall support itself, the maxi-
than 8 ft (2.4 m) off the ground shall require a deflation alert
mum total load, and any devices included for which the
system per 5.16.5.
inflatable is designed.
5.5.6 The design shall allow blowers and inflation tubes to
5.5.2.1 The manufacturer shall test the design for structural
bepositionedinlocationsthatminimizerisktopatronsandwill
integrity and stability per Practice F1193-18a with stated
not impede the ingress/egress of the device.
maximum capacity allowed on the device. Where applicable,
5.5.7 Captured air inflatable amusement devices shall have
thetestmethodologyshallconsideranticipatedareasofuneven
an air pressure relief valve. When accessible during intended
loading, such as stairs or transition platforms on inflatable
use, protruding parts of the valve shall be rounded and not
slides.
create entanglement or entrapment points.
5.5.3 The weight assigned to each patron, for design
purposes, shall be determined as follows: 5.6 Anchoring Systems:
FIG. 1Slide Platform and Wall Height Measurements
F2374−22
FIG. 2Containment Wall Height Measurement
ρ
5.6.1 Inflatable amusement devices shall be provided with
F 5 C V A 3S.F. (1)
H⁄V w
ananchoragesystemtopreventunplanneddisplacementduring 2
operation.
where:
5.6.2 Sufficient anchor points shall be provided and located
F = force, lbf (N);
H/V
to enable stability and restraint to be maintained under the
C = wind coefficient (see 5.6.4.3(1)(a));
w
designer’s stated operating conditions including, but not lim-
3 3
ρ = density of air, 0.002378 slug/ft (1.24 kg/m );
ited to, forces of wind and forces applied by patrons during
V = maximum wind speed with gusts over 3-second
intended use of the inflatable device. The number of anchor
period, mph (m/s) (see 5.6.4.1);
points shall be greater than or equal to four (4).
A = area (see Fig. 3) (see 5.6.4.3(1)(b));
H/V
5.6.3 The design shall specify maximum wind speeds and
S.F. = SafetyFactorforthepurposeofdesigningtheanchor
the type of anchorage. An analysis for determining an accept-
system (≥1.5).
able anchorage system shall be performed and stamped by a
(a)For calculating the horizontal wind force: C = 1.5.
w
licensed professional engineer. This analysis shall include
For calculating the vertical wind force: C = 0.7.
w
calculations and demonstrate that anchoring of the fully
(b)Forcalculatingthehorizontalwindforce:A =areaof
H
inflated device can withstand the stated design wind speed and
2 2
exposed vertical surface in the wind direction, ft (m ). For
wind loads (see 5.6.4), and patron loads during operation (see
calculating the vertical wind force: A = plan/surface area of
V
5.6.5).Thestampedwindloadcalculationsshallberetainedby
2 2
floor, ft (m ). For staked anchoring systems, Table A2.1
the manufacturer in accordance with 5.4.
represents the combination of the simultaneous forces.
5.6.4 Design Wind Conditions:
(2)For inflatables with height >10 ft (3 m) or with length
5.6.4.1 Thedesignshallassumeamaximumallowedopera-
>(2.5 × width), the wind force shall be calculated using Eq 2:
tional wind speed of at least 25 mph (11.1 m/s) with highest
sustained gusts over a 3-s period. A higher operational wind
F 5 q C A 3S.F. (2)
H⁄V w pe
speed shall not be used unless the anchorage has been verified
where:
as sufficient by a professional engineer.
F = force, lbf (N);
H/V
5.6.4.2 Maximum operating wind speed for the device shall
A = area (see Fig. 3);
H/V
beatleast5mph(2.2m/s)lowerthanthewindspeedforwhich
q = velocity pressure, psf (N/m );
w
anchoring was designed.
C = pressure coefficient; (see 5.6.4.3(3));
pe
5.6.4.3 Wind Force Calculations—Select formula from
S.F. = SafetyFactorforthepurposeofdesigningtheanchor
5.6.4.3(1) or 5.6.4.3(2) below, based on the dimensions of the
system (≥1.5).
inflatable device for wind force calculations. 5.6.4.3(1) shall
(3)Thepressurecoefficient, C ,shallbeselectedbasedon
pe
applytoinflatableswithaheightnotexceeding10ft(3m)and
theASCE7description.Forexample:forasquarebuilding,the
a length not exceeding 2.5 times the width. 5.6.4.3(2) shall
effectiveCpshallbe0.8forthewindwardwalland–0.5forthe
apply to inflatables that exceed those dimensions. For engi-
leeward wall or:
neering wind load calculations, the height refers to the dimen-
C = 0.8 + 0.5 = 1.3
pe
sion measured vertically, the length refers to the longer
The velocity pressure q shall be calculated using theASCE 7
w
horizontal dimension of the inflatable; and the width refers to
ExposurecategoryCformulainaccordancewithEq3orEq4,
the shorter horizontal dimension.
depending on the units:
(1)For inflatables with height ≤ 10 ft (3 m) and length ≤
(2.5 × width), the wind force shall be calculated using Eq 1: q 50.00256K K K V ~ImperialUnits! (3)
w z d zt
F2374−22
FIG. 3Areas of Exposed Surface for Wind Calculation
q 50.613K K K V ~SIUnits! (4) 5.6.7 Anchorage points installed near an entrance and exit
w z d zt
ofaninflatableamusementdeviceshallbeconnectedinsucha
where:
manner as to minimize the potential for tripping, abrasions, or
K = 0.85; exposure coefficient C, 0 – 4.57 m (15 ft) high;
z
other injuries.
K = 0.85; directionality factor for buildings;
d
5.6.8 Staked Anchoring:
K = 1; no topographic effects; and
zt
5.6.8.1 Appendix A2.2 provides staking recommendations
V = max sustained wind speed with gusts over 3-s period,
and information on pullout capacity for 1 in. diameter straight
mph (m/s) (see 5.6.4.1).
shaftstakesbasedonstakelength,stakeinclination,guyangle,
5.6.4.4 Fig. 4 outlines anchors and how to consider their
andsoilconsistency.Ifthestakedanchoringsystemisdesigned
effectiveness for load calculation purposes.
using other types of stakes, the design shall show how the
5.6.5 Internal Loads:
specified anchors meet the requirements for pullout capacity.
5.6.5.1 When calculating anchoring requirements in the
5.6.8.2 Stakes shall have a minimum tensile strength of
design of an inflatable, F = Internal forces due to patron
i
36000 psi.
activity or asymmetrical loading must be considered in the
5.6.9 Non-staked Anchoring:
design and treated as a separate load.
5.6.6 Anchoring systems for inflatable amusement devices 5.6.9.1 Where the inflatable amusement device is secured
shall be fixed stationary objects, installed or weighted in with means other than ground anchor stakes (for example,
accordance with the design. ballast bags, sand boxes, water anchor weights, indoor floor
FIG. 4Anchor Effectiveness
F2374−22
anchors),thetotalanchorsystemshallbesufficienttoresistthe 5.9.2 Flammability:
loads calculated per 5.6.3.
5.9.2.1 Fabrics used for inflatable amusement devices shall
5.6.10 The manufacturer shall ensure that all ropes and comply with the flame propagation performance criteria of
fasteners are capable of meeting the design loads and are NFPA 701 (2019) Test Method 2. Fabrics used for internal
suitable for the intended use. gussetshallcomplywiththeflamepropagationperformanceof
NFPA 701 (2019) Test Method 1 or Test Method 2. If
5.6.10.1 Anchoring rings or wire form shall be welded
compliance with a different fire test is required by local, state
closed or cast (solid), and shall have a minimum working load
or federal law, additional evidence for compliance with such a
equal to the calculated vertical, horizontal or combined load.
fire test shall be provided in accordance with 5.9.2.2.
The minimum breaking strength shall be 3 times the working
load. 5.9.2.2 Flammability testing documentation shall be pro-
vided by the manufacturer of the materials used in the
5.7 Mechanical, Electrical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic and
production of the inflatable amusement device.
Other Systems or Components Incorporated into Inflatable
(1)Material testing shall be performed by an independent
Amusement Devices:
testing facility utilized by the materials manufacturer.
5.7.1 Thissectionoutlinesdesignrequirementsforelements
(2)The testing date on the flammability testing documen-
thatarenottypicallyincorporatedintosimpleinflatableamuse-
tation shall be within 3 years of the material manufacture date.
ment devices, but are integrated into hybrid inflatable attrac-
5.9.2.3 The inflatable device manufacturer shall maintain
tions (for example, mechanical bulls, inflatable zip lines) or
flammability test results for material used on the inflatable
ancillary equipment.
amusement device per section 5.4.
5.7.2 Non-inflated structural elements, mechanical,
5.9.3 Adhesive Bonding:
electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and other systems or compo-
5.9.3.1 When adhesive/chemical bonding is used, designer/
nents covered under Practice F2291-20, but not addressed in
engineer shall only use in accordance with the manufacturer’s
this standard practice, shall be designed in conformance with
instructions and Safety Data Sheet.
Practice F2291-20.
5.9.4 Coatings:
5.8 Sanitation/Disinfection:
5.9.4.1 When material coatings are used, designer/engineer
5.8.1 The atmosphere, material composition and configura-
shall design for possible degradation due to the environmental
tion of surfaces, the nature of patron contact, potential for
conditions.
biologicalgrowth,disinfectiontechniquesandfrequencies,and
5.9.4.2 Designer/engineer shall use material coatings in
the information in the disinfectant agent(s) associated Safety
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and Safety
Data Sheets shall all be considered in the device analysis.
Data Sheet.
5.9 Materials: 5.9.4.3 Paintedorprintedcoatedfabricusedintheconstruc-
5.9.1 Material (Fabric) Strength—Fabrics shall be of ad- tion of inflatable amusement devices shall comply with the
equate tear and tensile strength for the weight of the intended following,unlessdifferentstandardsarerequiredbylocal,state
patrons and have sufficient air retention abilities to enable the or federal law:
inflatable amusement device, when pressurized to the levels (1)Concentration of lead shall not exceed 0.009 % (90
ppm).
specifiedintheoperation manual, to resume its intendedshape
after distortion under normal load. (2)The following phthalates: DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP,
DIDP and DnOP shall not be used in any amount greater than
5.9.1.1 Fabrics used in those parts of the inflatable device
0.1%(1000ppm),whereconcentrationsarecomputedforeach
that are subject to force or stress as applied by the patrons or
phthalate individually.
the anchorage system shall comply with Practice D5446-08
(2019): 5.9.5 Netting or Mesh:
(1)Minimum tear strength of 80 lbf (355 N) warp and 80
5.9.5.1 Netting or mesh shall not significantly impair the
lbf weft when tested in accordance with Test Method operator/attendant’s ability to observe patrons’ use of the
D3787-16 (2020).
device.
(2)Minimumtensilestrengthof440lbf(1957N)warpand
5.9.5.2 Netting or mesh used to contain patrons shall:
440 lbf weft when used in accordance with Test Method
(1)Be strong enough to contain the largest/heaviest user
D3787-16 (2020).
for whom the inflatable is designed;
5.9.1.2 Fabrics used in other applications of the inflatable
(2)MeettherequirementsforClass2BarrierNets/Meshin
device shall also be of adequate tear and tensile strength to
Practice F2375-09 (2017); and
withstandthedesignoperatingpressuretowhichtheyaretobe
(3)Pass the Prototype Test Procedure for Maximum Hole
subjected.
Size of No-Hold NettinginPracticeF2375-09(2017),butusing
5.9.1.3 Fabrics for use in decorative parts that do not come a test rod of 0.315 in. (8 mm) diameter substituted for the test
in contact with patrons and are not part of the load path of the rod size specified in Practice F2375-09 (2017).
anchorage system shall comply with 5.9.1.2 but are not
5.9.5.3 Climb nets used to form foot and hand holds shall:
required to comply with 5.9.1.1.
(1)Be securely attached to the inflatable at both ends to
5.9.1.4 Fabricsshallcomplywiththecoldflexcrackingand prevent lifting by patrons;
surface coating adhesion requirements of Test Method (2)Meet the criteria for Climb Nets in Section 4 Materials
D3787-16 (2020). and Manufacture of Practice F2375-09 (2017); and
F2374−22
(3)Pass the Test Procedure for Nets with Large Openings (3) Other openings (for example, sheering or moving
in Practice F2375-09 (2017). openings)—Non-rigid members, such as ropes, shall not over-
5.9.6 Zippers (Entrance and Deflation Ports): lapif,bydoingso,theycreateopeningsthatdonotconformto
5.9.6.1 Zippers shall withstand the air pressure generated the requirements for completely bound openings.
within the inflatable amusement device according to manufac-
5.11.2 Entrapment of Clothing or Hair:
turer’s designated requirements. 5.11.2.1 Spindles and rotating parts shall be constructed so
5.9.6.2 Zipper pulls shall be accessible to use from both
astoprevententanglementofclothingorhair(forexample,by
sides. Zippers for deflation purposes shall have the pull use of suitable coverings or shields).
concealed from view by use of a flap or pocket. See example
5.11.2.2 Inflatable devices shall be constructed so that there
in Fig. 5.
is no exposed hook from a hook-and-loop connection system
(for example, Velcro) in areas where patrons play.
5.10 Methods of Construction:
5.11.3 Finger Entrapment:
5.10.1 Thereshallbenohardorsharpanglesoredgesinany
5.11.3.1 Inflatable devices shall not have any gaps where
part of the inflatable device that is accessible to patrons (for
fingers can be trapped while the rest of the body is moving or
example, outside seams with a raw edge, square inflated
continuing in motion involuntarily (for example, sliding,
corners, sharp-pointed cones).
bouncing).
5.10.2 Hard objects incorporated into the design of an
5.11.3.2 Openings accessible to patrons within the play
inflatable amusement device (for example, joust pedestals,
area, when tested in accordance with Annex A3 test method
mechanicalobstacles,logrollingdevices,Jacob’sLadder)shall
A3.5, shall conform to one of the following requirements:
be positioned or padded to mitigate the risk of patron injury
(1)A 0.31 in. (8 mm) finger rod (see Fig. A3.2(a)), when
when the device is in use or during unintended deflation.
applied with a force of 6.75 lbf (30 N), shall not pass through
5.10.3 Joints and seams in those parts of the device that are
theminimumcrosssectionoftheopeningandtheprofileofthe
subject to force and stress applied by patrons or are part of the
opening shall be such that the rod cannot be locked in any
load path of anchorage systems shall be made so they achieve
position when set in motion as given in Fig. A3.3;or
no less than the minimum tensile strength of the fabric used in
(2)Ifthe0.31in.fingerrodpassesthroughtheopening,the
those parts.
1 in. (25 mm) finger rod (see Fig.A3.2), when applied with a
5.11 Entrapment:
force of 6.75 lbf (30 N), shall also pass through the opening.
5.11.1 Entrapment of the Head and Neck:
5.11.4 Body Entrapment:
5.11.1.1 Inflatable devices shall be constructed so that any
5.11.4.1 Adjacent inflated surfaces shall be more than 4.75
openings do not create head and neck entrapment hazards by
in. (120 mm) apart if the aperture formed is more than 8 in.
either head-first or feet-first passage. Situations in which this
(200 mm) deep (see examples in Fig. 7). The measurements
type of entrapment occur include the following:
shall be taken in the unloaded condition (that is, without
(1) Completely bound openings through which the patron
pressure being applied to push the inflated surfaces farther
can slide head first or feet first—Accessible completely bound
apart).
openings with a lower edge more than 24 in. (60 cm) above a
5.11.4.2 Inflatable tunnels shall be open-ended and shall
platform shall be tested in accordance with Annex A3 test
meet the criteria in Table 1.
method A3.4.1. The small probe shall not pass through any
5.12 Containment and Impact Attenuation:
opening unless it also allows passage of the large probe.
5.12.1 The minimum requirements in this section represent
(2) V-shaped openings—Theangleofanyvertexformedby
adjacentcomponentsshallbegreaterthan55°,unlessthelower a starting point for containment and impact attenuation system
design.Additionalfactorsforconsiderationinclude,butarenot
leg is horizontal or projects downwards, or an infill shield is
attached to the vertex that prevents a 9 in. (0.23 m) diameter limited to, the following:
5.12.1.1 Height of the patron routes above the ground.
circulartemplatefromsimultaneouslytouchingcomponentson
either side of the vertex. Fig. 6 illustrates recommended angle 5.12.1.2 Height of the patron routes above the mattress
measurements. surface (for example, jousting pedestals, climbable objects).
FIG. 5Examples of Zipper Protection
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FIG. 6Recommendations for Angles on V-shaped Openings
5.12.1.3 Age and size range of patrons allowed on the 5.12.4 Containment Walls:
device.
5.12.4.1 Supporting containment walls shall either be in-
5.12.1.4 Slope of the play surface.
flated or shall be enclosed with netting or mesh per 5.9.5.
5.12.1.5 Patron’s body position while using the play area
5.12.4.2 Minimum height for containment walls shall be as
(seated, standing, lying flat, etc.).
follows.
5.12.1.6 The intended nature of the amusement device and
(1) Inflatable bounce houses and combination devices with
type(s) of activity patrons are likely to engage in (for example,
a bounce house element—1.25 × the maximum patron height
sliding, running, climbing, horizontal jumping, jumping from
requirement for the device.
object to object).
(2) Inflatable slides and exterior slides on combination
5.12.1.7 Forces imposed on patrons by intended use of
units—28 in. (0.7 m) for devices with maximum patron height
equipment within the device that affect containment (for
up to and including 60 in. (1.5 m); 36 in. (0.9 m) for devices
example, bungee attachment, mechanical bull, additional el-
with maximum patron height greater than 60 in. (1.5 m). This
evation obtained from bouncing on the inflated surface).
corresponds approximately to the sitting height of the tallest
5.12.2 Any alternative design strategies used shall provide
patron allowed on the device.
equivalent (or better) hazard mitigation. For instance, in some
(3) All other inflatable amusement devices with an inflated
cases, it is acceptable to lower perimeter walls or replace them
mattress (for example, obstacle courses, games)—36 in. (0.9
when supplemented by additional containment features, an
m) above mattress height.
impact attenuation system, or both.
NOTE 1—This is a minimum requirement applied to a broad range of
5.12.3 Containment System Design:
inflatable amusement devices; the containment analysis may indicate
5.12.3.1 The perimeter (that is, outermost inflated edges) of
higher walls for some devices in this category.
an inflatable amusement device shall include a patron contain-
5.12.5 Protective Covers:
ment system, except in areas protected by impact attenuation
materials in accordance with 5.12.7. 5.12.5.1 Inflatable slides and exterior slides on combination
5.12.3.2 The containment system design shall include ele- devices shall include design features to prevent patrons from
mentsthatsingly,orincombination,containpatronswithinthe standing, jumping, or diving down the slope, such as a
designated routes while the inflatable amusement device is protective cover over the top of the slide and climb areas and
being operated in the manner for which it was designed.These the associated transition platform as shown in Fig. 8.
elementsinclude,butarenotlimitedto:walls,bumpers,covers (1)Protective covers shall extend at least ⁄3 the slope
length of the slide as measured from the top of the sliding
over play areas; and harnesses worn by patrons.
5.12.3.3 Anysystemorsystemsusedtosupportandcontain surface.
(2)Minimum distance between the play surface and the
the patron(s) shall be securely fixed to the structure of the
deviceandshallhaveadequatestrengthfortheintendedforces underside of the protective cover, illustrated in Fig. 9, shall be
thesameastheminimumcontainmentwallheightfortheslide
produced by the device and the reasonably foreseeable actions
of the patron(s). defined in 5.12.4.2(2).
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FIG. 7Body Entrapment Assessment Examples
TABLE 1 Requirements for Tunnels
5.12.7.1 The landing surfaces are the areas beneath and
Tunnel Length Requirements directlyadjacenttotheingressandegressareasoftheinflatable
# 80 in. (2 m) Internal diameter shall be at least amusement device and any uncontained perimeter area, where
24 in. (0.6 m)
a user would land when exiting or falling from the device.
> 80 in. (2 m) Internal diameter shall be at least
5.12.7.2 The designer/engineer shall specify impact attenu-
30 in. (0.75 m)
ation requirements for all landing surfaces based on the
maximum free height of fall, defined as the greatest vertical
5.12.5.2 Inflatable obstacle courses shall include design distance between the edge of the uncontained side and the
features such as protective covers over elevated landings to landing surfaces underneath.
prevent patrons from standing in those areas. (1)The maximum free height of fall in designated ingress
5.12.6 Activity-related Containment: and egress areas shall be no more than 30 in. (0.76 m) in the
unloaded condition.
5.12.6.1 Ifaninflatablegameorotherdevicehasaplayarea
where the patron is elevated on an object above the mattress (2)In the ingress/egress areas and any other uncontained
surface, the designer shall evaluate the need for higher con- perimeter areas, surfacing shall conform to impact attenuation
tainment walls, an impact attenuation system, or other mitiga- requirements in section 5.16.6, and shall extend at least 4 ft
tion strategy for potential fall hazards. (1.2 m) from any uncontained edge of the inflatable device.
5.12.7 Ingress/Egress and Device Landing Surfaces: Fig. 10 shows impact mat placement for three common types
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FIG. 8Protective Cover Over Slide and Climb Areas
FIG. 9Clearance Between Slide Surface and Protective Cover
FIG. 10Examples of Impact Mat Placement
of inflatable devices. The mat in (A) extends at least 4 ft out (3)The design shall minimize opportunity for impact mats
from the front and sides of the bouncer ramp. The mats in (B) to slide away from the inflatable device during patron use (for
and (C) extend at least 4 ft from the ingress/egress openings. example, using Velcro or bungee attachments).
F2374−22
5.12.8 Inflatable Slides / Water Slides: 5.14.1 To minimize the possibility of drowning, inflatable
5.12.8.1 Ingress, egress and climb areas shall not use waterslideswithoutpoolsshallbedesignedwithdrainagepaths
materials intended for the sliding surfaces. Climb areas shall such that pools of water do not form within the structure.
have equally spaced steps or footholds with hand or grab rails
5.15 Device Capacity and Patron Restrictions:
on climb cover or containment walls (see Fig. 11).
5.15.1 Determination of the maximum number of patrons
5.12.8.2 Theupperlandingshallincludeatransitionareano
allowed on the device and maximum patron height shall
less than 30 by 30 in. to facilitate patron use from standing
depend, at a minimum, on the following factors:
climb to seated position for sliding, as shown in Fig. 12.
5.15.1.1 The patron weight distribution that the inflatable
5.12.8.3 Landing surface (run out) shall be sufficient in
device is designed to support.
length so that the patron cannot reach the bumper or barrier
5.15.1.2 The minimum play/jump area required for each
wall at the end of the inflatable device, with testing performed
patron in order to minimize collision injuries, based on
perPracticeF1193-18ausingthemaximumperpersonweight.
anthropometrics related to maximum patron height (see Ap-
5.12.8.4 Where a landing barrier (wall or bumper) or a run
pendix X2).
outisprovidedatthebottomoftheslide,thedistancefromthe
5.15.1.3 The height of containment walls (see 5.12.4).
landing shall be sufficient to prevent patrons from prematurely
5.15.1.4 The ability of the operator/attendant(s) to monitor
exiting the device.
and control patron play.
5.12.9 Inflatable Bounce Houses / Bounce House Portion of
5.16 Ancillary Equipment:
Combination Devices:
5.16.1 This section includes requirements for equipment
5.12.9.1 Inflatable bounce house areas shall be fully en-
typically used with inflatable amusement devices that is not
closedwithaperimeterbarrieraroundallsidesstructurallytied
necessarily manufactured by the inflatable device manufac-
together to prevent collapse of any portion of the supporting
turer. Annex A1 provides requirements for certain device-
barrier walls and to prevent patrons from falling out of the
specific ancillary equipment, such as joust poles and boxing
contained bouncer device.
gloves.
5.12.9.2 Inflatable bounce house areas shall be designed to
5.16.2 The inflatable device manufacturer shall specify
incorporateacontrolledtransitionfromplayareatotheground
proper ancillary equipment to be used in conjunction with the
(floor).
inflatable device.
(1)Where ramps or steps are used, they shall be wide
5.16.2.1 TheOperatingInstructionsfortheinflatabledevice
enough to cover the ingress/egress aperture.
(see Section 6) shall include the following:
5.13 Emergency Exits:
(1)Adescription of the ancillary equipment and its recom-
5.13.1 Fully enclosed inflatable bouncers and combo de-
mendeduseandoperationasitpertainstotheinflatabledevice
vices shall have a secondary escape opening in the roof of the
operations, in accordance with the ancillary equipment manu-
structure (for example, using hook and loop material or a
facturer’s manual.
zipper). The opening shall be capable of being stretched to a
(2)A description of the recommended daily or periodic
2 2
minimumof400in. (2580cm )withatleast16in.(41cm)in
inspectionandmaintenanceproceduresfortheancillaryequip-
any one direction. Escape opening location shall be clearly
ment in accordance with the ancillary equipment manufactur-
marked from inside and outside the structure.
er’s manual.
5.13.2 Inflatable amusement devices, which are designed
5.16.2.2 Where no supporting document exists from the
and manufactured to be operated as totally enclosed devices
ancillary equipment manufacturer, the inflatable device manu-
shall provide clearly marked exits.
facturer shall develop documentation in accord with 5.16.2.1.
5.13.3 Wherezipsorzippersareusedasemergencyexitsor
5.16.3 Blowers:
to provide access for service personnel (for example, deflation
5.16.3.1 Blowers shall be designed so that moving compo-
zippers), they shall be reliable, easy to use, and capable of
nents are not easily accessible to patrons and operator/
being opened from both sides.
attendants.
5.14 Inflatables Utilizing Water: 5.16.3.2 Blowers shall have a non-return airflow valve.
FIG. 11Slide Ingress, Entry Climb Area
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FIG. 12Slide Landing Transition Area
5.16.3.3 Blowers used with inflatable amusement devices (2)The indoor surfacing in the landing areas shall be
shall be permanently marked to indicate horsepower, static manufactured to meet the impact attenuation testing criteria in
pressure and volume flow produced by the blower. section A4.2.
5.16.4 Ground Fault Interruption: (3)Thenaturalorartificialoutdoorsurfacinginthelanding
5.16.4.1 Electrical connections required for operation of areas shall conform to the impact attenuation requirements in
ε1
inflatable amusement devices under the following conditions Specification F1292-18 .
shall be protected by a GFCI device conforming to NFPA
6. Quality, Manufacture and Construction
70-2020,NationalElectricalCode(NEC)Articles210,250and
525, or applicable local code: 6.1 Quality, manufacture and construction requirements for
(1)Where the inflatable is set up outdoors;
inflatable amusement devices including Major Modifications
(2)Where the electrical supply or electrical device is shall be in accordance with Practice F1193-18a, and the
within6ft(1.8m)ofawetlocation,eitherindoorsoroutdoors;
exceptions and inclusions unique to Inflatable Amusement
or Devices.
(3)Where the inflatable utilizes water during its operation. 6.1.1 Exceptions to Practice F1193-18a unique to inflatable
5.16.4.2 The connection is considered protected if any of amusement devices include:
the following conditions exist: 6.1.1.1 The term “amusement rides and devices” shall be
(1)The source receptacle (for example, outlet) is protected replaced with “inflatable amusement devices”.
with a GFCI device; or 6.1.1.2 The term “amusement ride or device” shall be
(2)TheelectricaldevicehasaGFCIdeviceontheplugend replaced with “inflatable amusement device”.
and is plugged directly into the source receptacle with no 6.1.1.3 The term “ride analysis” shall be replaced with
additional conductors or extension cords in between; or “device analysis”.
(3)A portable GFCI device is placed and maintained 6.1.1.4 Change “unique identifying ride name” to “identi-
within 12 in. (30 cm) of the receptacle and provides GFI fying device name”.
protection for the length of supply conductors to any electrical 6.1.1.5 Change “motion(s)” to “use(s)”.
devices, including motors, used for the operation of the 6.1.1.6 Reference to Practice F2291-20 in the Manufacturer
inflatable amusement device. Supplemental Bulletin Requirements section shall not apply.
5.16.5 Deflation Alert System: DesignandmodificationrequirementsareaddressedinSection
5.16.5.1 Where deflation alert systems are used with inflat- 5 of this practice.
able amusement devices, the deflation alert system shall
6.1.1.7 The term “passenger” shall be replaced with “pa-
incorporate one of the following: tron”.
(1)An automated means to monitor the onset of deflation
6.1.2 Inclusions to Practice F1193-18a unique to inflatable
and alert the operator/attendant, or amusement devices include:
(2)An automated means to monitor the loss of blower 6.1.2.1 Manufacturers shall identify the specified use of
function and a supplemental means to allow operator/ each inflatable device to the owner prior to or at the time of
attendants to monitor other failure modes that cause rapid sale.
deflation which can result in a loss of adequate air support to 6.1.2.2 Permanent Labeling:
maintain the structure of the inflatable device. (1)Alloftheinformationrequirementsinthissectionshall
5.16.6 Impact Attenuation Materials: be permanently posted on the inflatable device and included in
5.16.6.1 Landing areas around inflatable amusement de- the documented operating instructions provided by the manu-
vices shall meet at least one of the following criteria: facturer in conformance with subsection 6.1.2 of Practice
(1)The landing areas shall be covered by impact mats F1193-18a.
manufactured to meet the impact attenuation testing criteria in (2) Information Plate—The following information shall be
section A4.2. included on the information plate of the inflatable amusement
F2374−22
device, with safety-related parameters specified in both Impe- snowing, unless the device is specifically designed to be
rial and SI units (see Appendix X4). The information plate for operated in those conditions.
an inflatable amusement device shall be composed of a
(4)Anchoring procedure with diagramed example, includ-
material compatible with the device.
ing the required holding capacity at each anchor point and
(a)Applicable requirements include at a minimum: De-
maximum sustained wind speed allowed for operation as
vice Serial Number, Device Name and Manufacturer, Device
determined per 5.6. For staked anchoring systems, basic soil
Model Number, Date of Manufacture, Patron Capacity by
assessment instructions shall be included per 7.5.6.5(3).
Number, and Recommended Patron Restrictions, including
(5)Instructions on maintaining proper inflation of the
minimum
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