The International Association of Trampoline Parks (IATP) Develops Programs Aimed at Promoting Optimal Safety
The IATP continues to actively develop programs aimed at promoting the optimal safety and well-being of jumpers who visit our member parks. We encourage Senator Blumenthal to meet with industry leaders to garner a more informed understanding of the indoor trampoline park industry.
HERSHEY, Pa., April 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Patron safety is a top priority for the International Association of Trampoline Parks (IATP). Every incident is a serious matter, and we take every opportunity to communicate and recommend to our members that all optimal steps be taken to mitigate risks.
Trampoline parks are ideal places for families and kids of all ages to enjoy quality time with one another, and get active. Patrons spent an estimated 80 million hours jumping in trampoline parks across America in 2018, available Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) data indicates that trampoline park injury rates are lower or on par with common youth sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and far lower than contact sports such as lacrosse and football. In addition, the health benefits including cardiovascular, muscular, coordination and social interaction of active bouncing far outweigh the negatives.
The industry has created over 40,000 jobs in the US, and thousands more globally. These jobs offer young adults the opportunity to gain invaluable work experience providing a healthy transition into adulthood. This sector is a major economic contributor currently adding $1.4 billion to the US economy, and is predicted to grow to $3.2 billion by 2023.
The IATP continues to actively develop programs aimed at promoting the optimal safety and well-being of jumpers who visit our member parks, and in an ongoing effort the following initiatives will be launched:
1. Third-Party Inspection Program – This program will require all member parks to first pass a third-party inspection to join, or maintain IATP membership. This will put measures in place to monitor that parks are adhering to industry standards.
2. Let's Get Jumping – Childhood obesity is a serious problem in the US, and according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) data 1 in 5 children ages 6 -19 are obese. In an effort to get our nation's children active Let's Get Jumping is a consumer awareness campaign designed to educate parents and children on the numerous health benefits of jumping on a trampoline when safety rules and regulations are followed.
3. Court Monitor Certification – Court monitors play an essential role in overseeing guest activity, and enforce the rules at a trampoline park. We will provide optional certification to further highlight the importance of this role by providing court monitors with the necessary tools and resources to better fulfill their job responsibilities.
The IATP has pro-actively worked to draft safety standards all over the world, as well as the US. Enforcing ASTM F2970-17 paired with an inspection program that ensures parks are being inspected by individuals with the correct qualifications are two key factors in enhancing guest experiences at trampoline parks. Liability waivers utilized in patron driven activities are used all across the US from health clubs to skiing to cheerleading. Removing the consumer arbitration clause from a waiver does not regulate the industry or improve guest safety, it only creates an even more litigious environment. We encourage Senator Blumenthal to meet with industry leaders in an effort to provide him with a more informed understanding of the trampoline park industry.
SOURCE The International Association of Trampoline Parks
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