flooring for inline skating
Question
I work at a traditional health and fitness facility. One of our areas in a multipurpose court with poured rubber flooring. The court is large, at least as big as a normal skating rink would be. Some of our clientele asked the other day about bringing in their inline skates and skating on the floor, my initial reaction was "no way" but after thinking about it, I couldn't figure out why. I guess I am concerned about safety, and the damage the skates might to do the flooring. Have you got an advice or experience with skating on a non-concrete floor, damage it might cause to this type of flooring, etc.
Thanks
Answer
Hi Chad,
Off the top of my head I would say don't allow any skates, inlines or quads, on your floor. They do make rubber floors specifically for inlines but if your floor is a little bit softer the skates could easily damage it.
Before you ok or refuse any skating on your floor I would contact the flooring manufacturer and see what they say. That way you'll know one way or the other what to tell your clients.
If the manufacturer says the composition of the floor if fine for inlines, I would suggest you have each skater sign a waiver releasing you from any and all liability.
You might be able to do some research online to see what manufacturers make multipurpose court floors and ask them if you don't know the specific manufacturer who made your floor.
You could also contact companies that make the rubber flooring for the hockey rinks. They would also be able to tell you if there's a difference between multipurpose court floors vs hockey rink floors.
I'm sorry I couldn't be more specific but it's best to do some research first so you don't end up with repair work and someone getting hurt which would make you liable for a law suit.
Pat
Outdoor Quad Skating
foot support