A Bleacher Safety Guide and Checklist from Hussey Seating Company
Whether you’re looking at retrofitting existing bleachers to bring them up to code or are looking at investing in new ones, it’s important to keep track of and understand the necessary precautions and upfront investments needed to mitigate the risks associated with telescopic bleacher systems during the lifespan of the platform.
While this guide shares best practices for reducing injury risks posed by bleacher systems, telescopic bleachers are subject to International Code Council Standards (ICC-300) and must receive regular documented inspections and maintenance by a qualified person. Additionally, other consumer agencies recommend added inspections and check points to ensure the safety of individuals using these platforms.
Hussey Seating’s certified technicians and dealers are available to inspect and service your telescopic seating platform no matter who the manufacturer is. To learn more about inspection services or to get a free evaluation from a certified technician, go here.
Key Safety Points to Check on Your Bleachers
Many older bleachers in use may require repair or replacement, but the only way to identify the remaining life of the bleacher system is through inspection. Like any piece of equipment, bleachers deteriorate over time and due to their environments are at high risk of vandalism.
Preventative maintenance is key to lowering overall maintenance costs, reducing risks, and improving the lifespan and efficiency of your bleacher system. By paying close attention to the quality of your system and keeping up with ICC-300 – Section 501 codes you’ll ensure you’re doing the most you can to mitigate the risks associated with owning and operating a telescopic bleacher system.
Prior to the required bleacher inspection, here are eleven quick bleacher safety checkpoints:
- Does the system open and close appropriately? i.e. without any wide gaps and opens straight.
- Are there signs of corrosion, deterioration or damage on structural supports, decking or seating?
- Do fasteners show signs of rust or damage?
- Are any cross braces damaged or loose?
- Does all electrical wiring appear to be in good condition?
- Are wooden seats splintering or missing screws or hardware?
- Do plastic seats have exposed sharp edges that could cause a cut?
- Are seats and decking securely fastened?
- Is any bowing present in decking or seats?
- Are motors operating appropriately without any additional noise and smell?
- Are all rails and rail sockets tight with no signs of damage?
Examples of what to look for:
Again, telescopic seating is subject to International Code Council Standards (ICC-300), which require annual inspection and maintenance of new and existing telescopic seating, where the venue owner must be able to provide a current certificate of inspection. Hussey Seating Company’s certified technicians and dealers are available to inspect and service your telescopic seating platform no matter who the manufacturer.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
This checklist is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Hussey Seating Company encourages all looking to inspect their bleachers systems to reach out to professionals who are certified to do so. Strictly follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding useful life and maintenance of bleacher systems.
This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be construed as advice or opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. The content of this document is made available on an “as is” basis, without warranty of any kind. This document can’t be assumed to contain every acceptable safety and compliance procedure or that additional procedures might not be appropriate under the circumstances. Hussey Seating Company does not guarantee that this information is or can be relied on for compliance with any law or regulation, assurance against preventable losses, or freedom from legal liability. This publication is not intended to be legal, underwriting, or any other type of professional advice. Persons requiring advice should consult an independent adviser. Hussey Seating Company does not guarantee any particular outcome and makes no commitment to update any information herein or remove any items that are no longer accurate or complete. Furthermore, Hussey Seating Company does not assume any liability to any person or organization for loss of damage caused by or resulting from any reliance placed on this content.
