Every year in our industry, the month of May brings huge pressure.
Communions and confirmations mean that almost every inflatable in the country is booked out. Operators are working flat out from early morning until late at night trying to keep up with demand.
But the reality is this:
Historically, May is also one of the highest-risk months for inflatable accidents and incidents.
Not because operators do not care.
Not because people intentionally cut corners.
But because pressure, fatigue, stress, and workload can slowly wear down normal safety standards without operators even noticing.
The IIHF wants all members to take a step back this month and think carefully about the risks that come with being extremely busy.
1. Every Inflatable Gets Pulled Into Service
During May, demand becomes so high that operators often pull older inflatables out from storage or “the back of the shed” just to fulfil bookings.
That inflatable that has not been used in months may suddenly be back out earning money again.
Before any inflatable goes back into operation, ask yourself:
- Is it fully compliant?
- Is the safety certificate still valid?
- Has it been properly inspected recently?
- Are anchor points, seams, netting, and step units in good condition?
- Is the blower and electrical equipment safe and tested?
If there is any doubt — do not use it.
2. Busy Operators Can Overlook Normal Safety Procedures
When under pressure, it becomes easier to rush.
Unfortunately, rushing is where mistakes happen.
Simple things can get missed:
- incorrect anchoring
- missing pegs
- worn straps
- no impact mats
- poor positioning
- failure to complete routine inspection sheets
- wind conditions not properly assessed
- inflatables left running without proper supervision
These are exactly the types of issues that later appear in accident investigations.
3. Equipment Shortages Happen During Peak Season
May is the month where operators suddenly realise:
- they are short on ground fixing pegs
- impact mats have disappeared
- extension leads are damaged
- sandbags are missing
- Blowers are overloaded
- tie-down systems are incomplete
Never improvise safety equipment.
If you are missing the correct accessories or anchoring equipment, the inflatable should not go out.
4. Fatigue And Stress Reduce Awareness
This is probably the biggest danger of all.
Operators are:
- exhausted
- stressed
- working long hours
- driving constantly
- dealing with traffic, customers, weather, and timing pressure
Fatigue affects judgement.
It affects attention to detail.
And it affects decision-making.
The danger is that experienced operators can begin to rely on routine instead of actively assessing each setup properly.
5. Inflatables May Be Left Out for Longer Periods Than Normal
Another issue the IIHF sees during May is that some operators become so busy that inflatables are left in place for much longer than would normally happen.
This is understandable during peak season when demand is extremely high and operators are under pressure trying to service large numbers of bookings.
But longer hire periods can create additional risks.
The longer an inflatable remains on site:
- the greater the chance of weather conditions changing
- the greater the chance of unauthorised use
- and the greater the chance that the inflatable may end up being used without proper adult supervision
Many accidents happen not during the original supervised party or event — but later in the evening or the following day when children continue to use the inflatable without the operator present and without proper monitoring.
Operators should carefully assess:
- how long an inflatable is left on hire
- whether supervision arrangements are adequate
- and whether weather conditions may change during the hire period
High Wind Remains The Biggest Danger
The single biggest risk to inflatable users remains high wind.
Every year across Europe and internationally, the most serious inflatable accidents involve inflatables becoming unstable, lifting, moving, or overturning in windy conditions.
No inflatable should ever be operated in unsafe wind conditions.
Operators must:
- properly assess weather conditions on site
- monitor changing conditions throughout the hire period
- remind customers to continuously monitor wind conditions during the hire
- text or clearly instruct customers that the inflatable must be deflated immediately in winds above Beaufort Force 5 (18–24 MPH / 29–38 KMH)
- ensure correct anchoring at all times
- and never rely solely on weather apps without considering actual site exposure
Remember:
- sheltered areas can suddenly funnel wind
- gusts can be far stronger than forecast averages
- and conditions can change very quickly during May and summer weather patterns
If in doubt — do not operate.
No booking is worth risking a child’s life.
The Law Has Changed — And So Has The Responsibility
Under the new fairground equipment legislation operating in Ireland, safety certification and compliance are now legal requirements.
If an incident happens, investigators will look at:
- safety certification
- anchoring
- inspection records
- hire agreements
- operator procedures
- training
- maintenance
- weather assessment
- and overall compliance
The days of “that’ll do” are over.
A Simple Message From The IIHF
Please slow down and stay professional during the busy season.
No booking is worth:
- a serious injury
- a court case
- loss of insurance
- damage to your reputation
- or the injury of a child
The operators who survive long-term in this industry are not the ones who do the most bookings.
They are the ones who operate safely, professionally, and consistently every single weekend.
The IIHF wishes all members a safe and successful May season.