Learn the Facts and How to Prevent Bleacher Injuries

Did you know?

} Over 20,000 people are hurt annually in accidents involving bleachers.

} A large percentage of bleacher accidents are a result of a person falling from or through the bleachers.

} Many bleacher accidents involve children.

} Falls from bleachers typically occur when guardrails are missing from the back or sides of bleachers, creating openings.

} Many bleachers in facilities today were built and installed prior to CPSC guidelines, creating potential hazards.

To prevent falls, your bleachers should meet the following criteria:

} A bleacher should have a guardrail along the back and surrounding the open ends where the drop is more than 30″ to the ground below.

} The guardrail should be at least 42″ high and, if using a vertical picket guardrail, all openings should be small enough that a 4″ sphere cannot fit through.

} If a chain link guardrail is used, it is recommended to use chain link that has 1.25″ (or less) mesh to discourage kids from climbing.

} Where visibility would not be significantly impaired, use solid materials to block openings.

Maybe RETROFITTING your existing bleachers is more feasible for your budget:

} The current condition and structure of your bleachers will determine the materials and methods needed to retrofit.

} Make sure that the materials and methods being used for the retrofit do not introduce any new hazards.

} Features such as aisles, handrails, and surfacing should be added to any retrofit project.

} Rigid materials, such as aluminum, should be used to close any openings between the seating and footboards.

} Using chain link fencing material can introduce new hazards and encourage children to play or climb on it.

} Consult your local building officials to determine if a permit is needed in order to retrofit bleachers.

Whether you’re retrofitting current bleachers or ordering replacement ones, they should be carefully inspected at least once every three months to identify any damage to the structure.

ParknPool offers numerous bleacher options that fall into three categories:

} Permanent Grandstands:

} Portable (Stationary):

} Temporary (Tip N’ Roll):

It is crucial to follow CPSC’s guidelines. No one’s safety is worth risking by leaving outdated bleachers in place! Give us a call today!

ParknPool | Lexington, VA | sales@parknpool.com | 877.777.3700