Date: May 26, 2006

Attention: ASCIP Members

Subject: REBOUNDING DEVICES

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ASCIP has received a number of inquiries regarding the definition of a "rebounding device" as referenced in the ASCIP Memorandum of Coverage (MOC) Liability, Section V- Exclusions, Part F. While the MOC text clearly mentions the exclusion of trampolines or mini-trampolines from ASCIP coverage unless used in an Individual Education Program (IEP), it does not identify what might be defined as similar rebounding devices. Several members have asked for a list of activities or devices for which ASCIP coverage would be excluded, therefore staff has revisited this issue to offer the following clarifications:

For the purpose of the language in the ASCIP MOC, similar rebounding devices excluded from coverage include any event or activity wherein an individual bounces, rebounds, or oscillates more than once as an intended consequence of use (carnival-type bounce houses, bungee bull riding, bungee jumping, bungee tug-o-war, etc.) as a result of spring tension, elastic action, inflation, flexation, or other means. In a brief internet search, ASCIP staff identified over 158 named variations of bounce houses and moon walks plus many similar events where bounce features were combined with other non-rebounding elements to produce combination activities. Most are excluded from ASCIP coverage.

Devices that are covered under the ASCIP MOC include the supervised athletic use of gymnastic vaulting springboards, the use of similar springboards for theater or film arts special effects, Velcro Wall/Human Fly carnival events which utilize a springboard or inflated launching pad to propel a participant into a padded wall, Bungee Run events wherein a harnessed participant is retracted back along an inflated pathway a single time by an anchored bungee-type cord, the use of swimming pool diving boards as a part of a supervised physical education program, etc. The potential use of any of these devices or activities should be in consideration of adequate supervision and the age and ability of the participants.

Because it would not be possible to list every activity, event, or variation that might fall under the MOC exclusion or to predict what new devices or activities may arise in the future, if any uncertainty exists it may be prudent for members to check with ASCIP staff prior to proceeding with plans to utilize a specific device or carnival event. Additional insurance coverage should always be requested from event promoters or renters of covered activities even though similar coverage may also be provided by ASCIP.

As always, should members have any questions or concerns regarding this or similar issues, please feel free to give ASCIP a call at ay time.

Reviewed July, 2006