Balloon Modeller | Risk Assessment

Possible hazards relating to Balloon Modelling at events and parties. Who may be at risk and the action required to minimise the perceived risk.

Summary of potential hazards
Hazard	Who could be at risk	Action required	Notes
Choking caused by swallowing latex from a burst balloons	Younger Children	Do not give balloons directly to children under three years of age ( hand to a parent or guardian ) Tell children not to put balloons in their mouths Do not inflate by mouth as this encourages children to copy If a balloon pops whilst inflating or moulding into shape,pick up any remnants and dispose of in a safe place	It is up to parents to supervise their own children when playing with balloons once they have left the balloon modeller
Damaged ear drums	People in very close proximity when a balloon pops	Keep a clear space between the balloon modeller and spectators Do not inflate balloons close to the ears of children
Internal ruptures caused by inflating balloons by mouth	Balloon Modeller	Always use a balloon pump for inflation purposes	Some people have been seriously injured whilst inflating balloons by mouth. This practice is not recommended by manufacturers
Child being poked in the face with a balloon pump	Smaller children	Keep a clear space between the balloon modeller and keep smaller children out of arms reach Do not inflate balloons close to the faces of children