Public Safety Issue - Rental of Inflatable Devices

To:Superintendent, Charter School Leaders and Other Interested Parties
From:David P. Driscoll, Commissioner of Education
Date:July 10, 2006
The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has informed us of safety issues related to the rental of inflatable devices such as a Moonwalk or the inflatable house, for use by students at school events. Many schools may have unknowingly rented un-inspected inflatable devices from unlicensed vendors. Massachusetts law and the DPS regulations require that all inflatable devices and device owners be properly permitted and licensed to ensure the safety of all involved. The regulations authorize DPS to perform CORI inquiries on the amusement device owner and to require the owner to perform background checks on device operators and other employees. Further, the Department of Public Safety inspects devices for compliance with industry standards and general soundness. I urge you to have schools be sure that the owner is properly licensed and the equipment has been properly inspected before renting any inflatable device. You can inquire whether an operator is licensed by contacting the Department of Public Safety at (617) 727-3200. You may also review the DPS website for further information at: www.mass.gov/dps/amusements.htm.



Last Updated: July 11, 2006



Top