Annual bleacher inspections are more than a box to tick—they’re a legal requirement under the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines and ICC‑300 standards adopted by most jurisdictions. Failing to document even a single inspection can expose schools, universities, and municipalities to costly liability should an accident occur. To make compliance easier, BROC’s safety team compiled the definitive 2025 Bleacher Inspection & ADA‑Compliance Checklist and a free downloadable log to streamline record‑keeping.
Why Annual Inspections Matter (CPSC & ICC 300)
Bleachers—both permanent grandstands and telescopic gym seating—are classified as public‑assembly structures. Because they routinely support large crowds, inspection regulations focus on fastener integrity, guardrail openings, and overall structural stability.
The ICC‑300 code mandates a qualified person inspect all bleachers at least once every 12 months, with a written report kept on file. Meanwhile, the CPSC Handbook for Public Playground Safety recommends even tighter intervals for K‑12 campuses that see daily student use.
In practical terms, a comprehensive annual inspection helps facility managers:
• Identify hidden corrosion before it compromises load capacity
• Verify that guardrails and closing gaps still meet the 4‑inch rule
• Catch loose power‑train components on motorized telescopic units
• Budget for phased repairs rather than emergency shutdowns
ADA Seating Requirements You Can’t Ignore (2025 Refresh)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets clear ratios for wheelchair spaces and companion seating, scaled to each venue’s capacity. For 2025, no substantive code changes affect those ratios, but inspectors should verify that accessible bays remain clear of temporary storage and that companion seats are never removed to boost ticket capacity.
Key dimensions to check:
• Wheelchair bay width: 36 inches minimum (33 inches if adjacent bays share space)
• Knee clearance: 48 inches deep for forward approach
• Companion seats: installed immediately adjacent on the same row
If a telescopic bleacher retrofitted prior to 2010 cannot feasibly meet modern ADA dimensions, a qualified seating contractor can often install modular cut‑outs or decking extensions to achieve compliance.
Step‑by‑Step Bleacher Inspection Checklist
A thorough inspection divides a bleacher into five zones — super‑structure, decking, guardrails, telescopic mechanisms, and life‑safety accessories. Below is a condensed overview; download the PDF log for the full 39‑point list and inspection form.
- **Structural fasteners & welds:** Confirm nuts, bolts, and anchor rods are tight, undamaged, and corrosion‑free.
• **Guardrails & gaps:** Measure openings; any gap exceeding 4 inches requires remediation.
• **Seat boards & decking:** Look for cracks, rot (wood), or galvanic rust (steel/aluminum).
• **Telescopic power units:** Test limit switches, torque tubes, drive wheels, and safety locks.
• **ADA bays:** Verify clear floor space, signage, and companion seat availability.
Download the Free PDF & Excel Log
Documentation is half the battle. Our free package includes:
• A printable PDF checklist covering every ICC‑300 line item.
• An editable Excel / Google‑Sheets log with drop‑downs for Pass, Repair, or N/A.
Using standardized forms keeps multi‑site inspections consistent and simplifies follow‑up when maintenance staff changes.
When to Call a Qualified Service Team
Visual inspections can flag problems, but certain repairs—particularly weld replacement, power‑train calibration, and ADA retrofits—demand specialized equipment and technician training. BROC’s factory‑authorized service division covers the entire Mountain West and Southwest regions and can typically mobilize within 72 hours for critical repairs.
To request a quote or to schedule an on‑site assessment, email [email protected] or call (720) 764-2335.
Frequently Asked Questions
- **How long does a typical inspection take?**
A two‑row telescopic unit takes about 60–90 minutes to inspect and increases based on the number of rows and span; permanent grandstands seating, depending on its size, can take half a day upwards to a full day. - **Can custodial staff perform the inspection?**
A “qualified person” per ICC‑300 is one who understands structural, operational, and safety requirements; custodians may assist but a trained inspector must sign off. BROC offers annual inspections and preventive maintenance services that meet ICC-300 requirements. To schedule an inspection and preventive maintenance service, email [email protected] Download the full 2025 Bleacher Inspection & ADA‑Compliance Checklist below, and keep it on file for your next annual walk‑through. A safer venue protects spectators, athletes, and your organization’s budget.
— The BROC Safety & Service Team
