Recent Tragedy Raises New Concerns about Inflatable Sphere Safety

Earlier this month, a 27-year-old Russian man was killed while riding in an inflatable sphere made by Zorb down a snowy mountain. The sphere veered sharply off course and careened off a cliff. This tragic accident, which was caught on film and posted on YouTube, renews concerns about the safety of inflatable spheres used for recreational activities.  This includes water balls, also known as water spheres and water walking balls, which became popular among children and adults several years ago for use on lakes and swimming pools.  These products are manufactured and sold under various brand names, including Zorb and Water Walking Ball.

In March 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning to consumers about inflatable spheres, stating that they create the risk of suffocation and drowning.  One major concern with the product’s design is that users have no way to escape in the event of an emergency; the spheres are air-tight and may only be opened from the outside.  For this reason, the CPSC warned that the product “significantly heightens the risk of injury or death when a person inside the ball experiences distress.”  The CPSC therefore cautioned people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart, lung, or breathing issues, to avoid walking or riding in inflatable spheres of any kind.

Another concern, as illustrated by the unfortunate victim in Russia, is that there is no way for users to steer the sphere if it begins to drift off course down a trail, nor is there any ability to brake or stop the sphere.

Despite the numerous warnings and recalls nearly two years ago, inflatable spheres continue to be widely available for purchase and use.  Zorb still advertises rides in its spheres on its website, and there is no indication that the company or other manufacturers of similar products plan to improve their design to prevent future accidents and tragedies.