When operating inflatables, it’s essential to ensure they meet safety standards. According to the European safety standard EN14960:2019, all inflatables must undergo annual safety testing. This requirement also extends to the blower used to inflate the unit, as mandated by the IIHF insurance scheme. But why is testing the blower just as important as testing the inflatable itself?
The Importance of Testing Both the Inflatable and the Blower
As highlighted in our previous blog post on sound and reliable footing, the blower plays a critical role in the operation of any constant flow inflatable. Without a properly functioning blower, the inflatable cannot be safely used.
Over time, a habit has developed where hire companies submit only the inflatables for inspection, neglecting to include the blowers. During these inspections, testers often use their own blowers to inflate the units. Although the inflatables pass the inspection and are certified as safe for another year, the next blower used by the hire company may not be as efficient or reliable, leading to significant safety issues.
The Problem of Low Pressure
Using an untested or inefficient blower can result in low pressure, which can cause several serious issues:
- Instability: The inflatable may become unstable, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Grounding: Users might hit the ground while bouncing, which poses a significant safety hazard.
- Wall Failure: The walls of the inflatable may fail to retain users, leading to potential injuries.
- Overloading: The inflatable may not support the number of users indicated in the user manual or on the safety label.
Additionally, an untested blower may have other safety risks, including:
- Electrical Faults: These can create serious hazards, especially in wet or outdoor environments.
- Loose Connections: The front cone of the blower may not be securely fastened, risking sudden deflation of the unit.
- Defective Mesh Guards: This can result in faster deflation during a power outage, increasing the risk of entrapment.
Dirt Build-Up: A Common Yet Serious Problem
Over time, dirt can accumulate in the blades of the blower’s impeller, potentially reducing its output by up to 33%. This reduction in efficiency can lead to all the issues mentioned above, making it crucial to regularly clean and maintain your blower.
The Solution: Comprehensive Testing
To ensure safety, every blower must undergo a safety test in compliance with the EN14960:2019 standard. During testing, each blower is paired with a specific inflatable to verify its performance. Although it’s rare for hire companies to match blowers with specific inflatables after testing, you can rest assured that all your blowers are safe and have passed the necessary checks.
Additional Considerations
- Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): All portable electrical appliances, including blowers, must undergo a PAT test. A qualified tester should also inspect the cone connection, mesh guards, and deflation grid inside the outlet.
- Safety Standards: According to the EN14960:2019 standard, blowers must meet specific safety criteria, such as protection levels, positioning requirements, and accessibility restrictions.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Children and the Industry
In summary, ensuring the safety of your inflatables means also ensuring the safety of the blowers. Regular testing and maintenance are not just legal requirements—they are vital steps in protecting children and upholding the integrity of the inflatable hire industry.
Remember, no blower means no play, and a faulty blower means unsafe play. Let’s keep our inflatables fun and safe for everyone.
Contact The IIHF
If you have any questions at all regarding the inflatable industry in Ireland, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at the Irish Inflatable Hirers Federation. We’re here to help!
