Essential safety criteria for a ropes course PARK

A ropes course must be above all a place of pleasure ... without compromise on security . From the design of courses to user equipment, including regular checks, security is an essential pillar to guarantee serene experience to your visitors and comply with legal obligations. In this article, we take stock of the essential safety criteria to take into account to operate a compliant, reliable and lasting park.

The standard EN 15567: the regulatory base to be respected

Any ropes course Park open to the public in Europe must comply with the standard EN 15567, divided into two parts:

• Part 1 concerns the design and construction of routes : choice of materials, safety distances, anchors, resistance of platforms ...
• Part 2 relates to daily exploitation : supervision, staff training, emergency procedures, maintenance of facilities.

This standard is the essential reference framework for manufacturers and operators. It must be taken into account from the design phase to avoid any future non-compliance. It requires in particular the validation of the installations by an approved control office before opening.

The continuous lifeline: enhanced security for all

Long optional, the continuous lifeline is now considered the reference in terms of security ropes course parks . Unlike conventional carabiners, this system prevents the user from detaching himself at any time from the course . He follows the practitioner from start to finish, without complex manipulation.

It is a particularly recommended solution for children, beginners and family routes, where vigilance can decrease over time. It also considerably reduces the risks of human errors, and reassures families as insurers.

Individual Protective Equipment (EPI) adapted and controlled

Each visitor must be equipped with a harness , a helmet , and a security system in accordance with the latest standards . These individual protective equipment must be:

• adapted to the size and weight of the user,
• in good condition,
• regularly checked and maintained.

The staff must check each harness before the course left and ensure that the instructions have been understood. The traceability of PPE, via a follow -up register, is also required by regulations to guarantee their compliance over time.

Active surveillance and operators formed

Security is not based solely on installations. The role of staff is decisive. Each operator must be trained in the management, rescue and risk management procedures . Specific training (CQP OPAH type) exist to ensure the competence of your teams.

The park must also be organized in supervised areas , with a sufficient number of monitors to intervene quickly if necessary. The clear display of safety instructions, the fluidity of the routes and the management of visitors flows also help to limit incidents.

Control, maintenance and management of trees

Whatever the type of park; ropes course natural race, on posts, freestanding, net or interior, security requires rigorous control and maintenance adapted to the structure.

In a natural park , trees are the main supports. They must be subject to regular checks by specialized arborists, because their health and stability can evolve with seasons, bad weather or parasitic attacks. These inspections condition the overall security of the course.

For a park on posts , freestanding or indoor , the structures are generally made of wood or metal. They require a technical verification of foundations, fixings, anchors and the solidity of materials. Tension points, friction zones and suspension systems must be closely followed.

The net parks, often without harness, also require special attention: the nets must be checked to detect any sign of wear, relaxation or tear. The tension of the nets, the ties and the jump zones must comply with the standards to guarantee a risk -free practice, especially in the youngest.

In all cases, daily visual checks, supplemented by weekly, monthly and annual technical checks are to be expected. These operations must be recorded in a maintenance register, essential in the event of control or incident.

Flow management and capacity

Choosing a turnkey solution for the construction of your ropes course is to bet on security, consistency and efficiency . You save time, master your budget and benefit from expertise at each stage of the project. Whether you are an investor, a community or a site manager, this format allows you to transform an idea into an operational park, attractive and profitable.

Storkeo offers this type of global support with leisure agents, and tailor-made services ranging from field research to maintenance, including the creation of routes, financing and even communication. A complete approach for your project to gain height, from its design.

Ground safety and accessibility of routes

Security starts well before climbing on a route. Reception, briefing, waiting or rest areas must also be carefully arranged. Non -slip floor, protected borders, sufficient lighting and fluid circulation avoid falls or incidents linked to the crowd, especially in high season.

For the youngest or people with reduced mobility, the accessibility of the facilities is also an important criterion . The addition of suitable courses or educational spaces on the ground can enrich the experience while guaranteeing a supervised practice, even outside the height structures.

Safety is also a promise of profitability

A secure, well maintained and compliant park inspires confidence. He retains visitors, reduces legal risks, reassures partners and facilitates obtaining professional insurance . It is also a marketing differentiation criterion, in a sector where the quality of the customer experience is increasingly prevailing.

Working with a specialized manufacturer or opt for a turnkey solution , as we offer via our leisure agents, guarantees you a compliance from the design. It is the assurance of not having to resume or modify your routes afterwards, which generates additional avoidable costs.