WorkSafe Victoria has found scores of safety issues affecting community event amusements such as jumping castles and inflatable rides during its inspections this year.

The authority has completed 380 inspections at 44 events and theme parks, ranging from the Royal Melbourne Show, the Australian Grand Prix and the Open tennis to regional shows and smaller festivals.

Inspectors issued 41 improvement notices and had duty holders immediately address another 44 safety issues. Common issues include inadequate anchoring of inflatables; lack of weather protection on electrical blowers or guarding to prevent access by children; and inadequate patron supervision and pedestrian management.

WorkSafe executive director of health and safety Sam Jenkin says inspectors found unsafe set-ups at two Melbourne schools last month, including a jumping castle not anchored, unprotected electrical equipment and an inflatable ride set up beneath power lines.

“Well-meaning parents and volunteers organising events on a tight budget may be tempted to choose a cheaper, less professional amusement hire option, but backyard operators just aren’t worth the risk,” he said.

WorkSafe has also warned against using ride hire companies that drop off inflatables and leave it to inexperienced volunteers and customers to set up and operate them.

“Anyone considering hiring amusement rides or inflatables for events must do their due diligence and ensure the ride hirer prioritises safety in all aspects of their operation, including delivery, set-up, operation, pack-up and maintenance,” Mr Jenkin said.

“Operators who can’t demonstrate safety procedures and provide evidence of their competence and maintenance checks, such as a logbook and training records, may not be a suitable choice.”

The Taylor Fry Radar report, published last week, noted affordability and availability of public liability insurance continues to be a concern for some sectors of the economy. “In particular, businesses operating within the amusement, leisure and recreation industries are experiencing significant increases in premiums, as well as deteriorating terms and conditions of cover,” it says.