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These guidelines enumerate some of the hazards that may arise when using an Airquee pool inflatable,
but it will be up to the individual pool operator to assess these hazards and risks in light of their own
circumstances. Since the risks are site specific, the list below does not exhaust all the possible risk factors
and we would like to remind you, it is your legal duty to prepare a detailed risk assessment and to train
your employees according to that risk assessment, before allowing the members of the public to use the
inflatable.
- Inflatables are not suitable for non-swimmers and weak swimmers.
- The attendant(s)/operator must be able to ensure that rules of play are being observed and adhered
to at all times.
- THE POOL INFLATABLE MUST NOT BE USED IN OPEN WATERS OR ANYTHING ELSE OTHER THAN WATER.
- Players should not approach the inflatable until given permission to do so.
- For players not to collide while sliding, the run-out, and an area of 2m surrounding the run-out should
be clear before sliding.
- The slide will not function correctly under excessive loads.
- Boisterous, careless or reckless behaviour or rough play which might put themselves or others at risk
is to be stopped (e.g. recklessly colliding with other players, pushing others off the inflatable or lifting
the inflatable in an attempt to dislodge others, interference with anchor ropes, air pipes or fans, or
repeated disregard of operator’s directions etc.)
- If the unit starts to show signs of loss of air pressure e.g. if it starts to sag noticeably, play should be
suspended immediately and the cause of the pressure loss investigated before players are allowed
back onto the unit and play is resumed. Common causes of pressure loss include someone opened
the deflation valve or physical damage to the inflatable itself.
- Ensure that the unit does not become overcrowded.
- The 2m clearance zone refers to nearby swimmers as well. Do not allow anyone to swim next (or under)
the inflatable while being used.
- Players who have failed to complete an obstacle course should not be allowed to climb back onto the
inflatable. If anyone falls off then they must move away safely and go to the back of the queue at the
beginning.
- Ensure that players using the inflatable at the same time are all of a similar age group, size and ability,
especially players competing against each other on dual lane obstacle courses.
- Under no circumstances should the players be allowed to climb on the structure whilst it is out of the
water or not correctly anchored.
- Do not leave the inflatable without supervision whilst inflated in the pool.
- Always use the supplied fan or one with similar specifications approved by the manufacturer.
- Water the top surfaces of the inflatable before granting players access on it.
Ideally the attendant(s) should be equipped with a whistle to attract the attention of a particular player
or group of players. In the case of water obstacle courses (aquaruns) the system of work should ensure
that the players are admitted to the inflatable in a controlled and safe manner.
7 RULES OF PLAY
Owners, operators and swimming pool managers should display their rules of play in a manner which can
be seen and read by all players before they are allowed onto the inflatable, e.g. a prominent sign-board
or poster. The signage is also a useful reminder for staff. For detailed information regarding the safety
signs please consult the relevant national standard/guidance/legislation in your country of use.
Considerations include:
- Running or jumping on the inflatable from the poolside IS FORBIDDEN.
- Only one person should go down the slide at any one time per lane.
- The slide is designed for players to go down FEET FIRST only whilst in a seated position.