Reflecting on my childhood, I vividly recall attending University of Kentucky football games at Commonwealth Stadium in the 1970s, way back before it was called Kroger Field. Back then, kids could roam freely without constant parental supervision. During those games, I often explored beneath the end-zone bleacher seats, discovering all sorts of lost treasures while dodging bourbon and beer bottles raining down from above as fans discarded their trash through the gaps in the bleachers.
Reflecting on that risky behavior, I had no idea how dangerous it truly was for kids and students. I can also vividly remember falling through an opening in the bleachers at an athletic event when I was a child. While I can’t recall the specific event, I can certainly remember the pain of landing on the concrete that day.
Bleachers are a common sight at sporting events, school activities, and community gatherings. They provide a convenient way for spectators to enjoy the action, offering a clear view of the event. However, despite their widespread use, bleachers can pose significant safety risks if not properly maintained and used.
Each year, approximately 19,100 people in the United States are treated in emergency rooms due to bleacher-related incidents. These incidents can range from falls and entrapments to structural failures. Of these injuries, around 6,100 involve individuals falling through the bleachers1. While fatalities are less common, they do occur, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety standards and regular maintenance to prevent such accidents.
Just for example a few weeks ago in Boerne, TX, a portion of a bleacher at a rodeo collapsed, injuring twelve people. Of those injured, eight were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, where one woman later died.
In July 2014, a tragic incident in Lexington highlighted the dangers of outdated bleachers when 2-year-old Cristiano Wade slipped through an opening at Douglas Park and fell 12 feet. He was rushed to Kentucky Children’s Hospital but sadly passed away from his injuries. Relatives and friends held a vigil and urged the community to sign a petition for improved bleacher safety.
Bleachers can be very dangerous, with adults & children still getting injured or even killed while sitting, playing, or walking on them. Often, users don’t notice the hazards of the bleachers they’re on until it’s too late.
Bleachers, whether permanent or portable, can be hazardous if they do not meet current safety standards. Many older bleachers were built before modern safety codes were established, and even newer bleachers can become dangerous if not properly maintained. The risks associated with bleachers include:
1. Falls One of the most common accidents involving bleachers is falls. Gaps between seats, lack of guardrails, and uneven surfaces can all contribute to falls, which can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
2. Structural Failures: Over time, bleachers can suffer from wear and tear. Rust, loose bolts, and weakened materials can lead to structural failures, causing sections of the bleachers to collapse.
3. Entrapment: Small children are particularly at risk of getting trapped in gaps between seats or railings. This can lead to injuries ranging from minor scrapes to more severe harm.
4. Overcrowding: During popular events, bleachers can become overcrowded, increasing the risk of falls and making it difficult for spectators to move safely.
To mitigate these risks, several safety standards and regulations have been established. The International Building Code (IBC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide guidelines for the construction and maintenance of bleachers. Key safety features include:
1. Guardrails: Guardrails should be installed along the sides and back of bleachers to prevent falls. The height and spacing of these rails are specified to ensure maximum safety.
2. Gaps and Openings: The size of gaps between seats and railings should be minimized to prevent entrapment. The IBC recommends that openings should not allow a sphere larger than 4 inches in diameter to pass through.
3. Structural Integrity: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure the structural integrity of bleachers. This includes checking for rust, loose bolts, and other signs of wear and tear.
4. Accessibility: Bleachers should be designed to be accessible to all spectators, including those with disabilities. This includes providing ramps, handrails, and designated seating areas.
Best practices for bleacher safety
Ensuring bleacher safety requires a proactive approach from both facility managers and spectators. Here are some best practices to follow:
1. Regular Inspections: Facility managers should conduct regular inspections of bleachers to identify and address any potential hazards. This includes checking for structural issues, ensuring guardrails are secure, and verifying that gaps meet safety standards.
2. Maintenance: Routine maintenance is essential to keep bleachers in safe condition. This includes tightening bolts, repairing damaged sections, and applying rust-resistant coatings.
3. Education and Awareness: Spectators should be educated about the potential risks associated with bleachers and encouraged to report any safety concerns. Signage can be used to remind spectators to watch their step and avoid overcrowding.
4. Supervision: During events, staff should be present to monitor the bleachers and ensure that safety protocols are being followed. This includes preventing overcrowding and assisting spectators as needed.
5. Emergency Preparedness: Facilities should have an emergency plan in place in case of an accident. This includes having first aid supplies readily available and ensuring that staff are trained to respond to emergencies.
Bleacher safety is crucial for protecting spectators at events. By understanding the risks, following safety standards, and implementing best practices, we can create a safer environment. Regular inspections, maintenance, and education are essential to prevent accidents and protect our communities from bleacher-related dangers.
Be Safe My Friends.