Safety Questions
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Safety Questions

If you are planning a session at SmashDown, this page covers the practical safety questions we get most often. You will find clear guidance on gear, briefings, room rules and who can take part.

What safety gear is provided before a session starts?

Every participant is fitted with protective gear before entering the smash room. That normally includes a helmet, face shield, gloves and overalls, with closed shoes required for anyone taking part. The gear is there to reduce the chance of injury from flying fragments, slipping pieces and sharp edges, so it must be worn properly for the full session.

Our team checks that the fit is correct before anyone goes in. If something does not sit properly, it is adjusted first. Hair should be tied back and loose items removed from pockets or clothing. If you arrive in sandals, heels or open footwear, you will not be able to enter until suitable closed shoes are worn.

How the safety briefing works on arrival

Before any smashing begins, each group gets a safety briefing. This covers how the room is set up, what is allowed inside, how to move around safely and when to stop if a staff member gives instructions. The briefing is short, practical and easy to follow, even if it is your first visit.

We explain the correct way to use the tools provided, where to stand when another person is smashing, and how to share space in a group booking. If you are coming for a corporate event in Cape Town, Stellenbosch or Bellville, the same safety steps apply to everyone in the room.

  • Listen carefully before entering the room.
  • Keep your face shield down while smashing is underway.
  • Stay behind the marked safety line when not taking your turn.
  • Follow staff instructions immediately if the session is paused.

Who can take part, and are there age limits?

Smash rooms are open to individuals, couples, groups and event bookings, but there are participation requirements. Minimum age rules can vary by session type and package, so younger participants must always be checked in advance. Minors may need a parent or guardian present and some activities may be restricted depending on age and supervision.

We also need participants to be in a condition where they can follow instructions safely. If someone is feeling unwell, unsteady or too tired to take part properly, it is better to sit out. The room is physical, so good judgment matters as much as enthusiasm.

  • Age requirements depend on the booking type.
  • A parent or guardian may need to sign for underage participants.
  • Anyone who cannot follow safety instructions should not enter.
  • Pregnant guests should not take part.

Room rules everyone must follow inside the smash room

The room is controlled, but it still has rules that need to be respected. These rules are there to protect participants, staff and the venue itself. The main point is simple: stay alert, move carefully and never ignore instructions from the briefing team.

Only the approved items and equipment are used inside the room. Do not bring personal bottles, glass items or loose objects into the space unless staff have cleared them. Avoid running, horseplay or crowding another person while they are smashing. If something breaks in an awkward way, step back and wait for guidance rather than trying to handle it yourself.

In a busy group session, especially for team events or birthday bookings, it helps to take turns and keep a safe distance. That way everyone gets a proper turn without people getting under each other’s feet.

What happens if someone has glasses, an injury or a medical concern?

If you wear prescription glasses, let the team know during check-in. In many cases the face shield can still be used comfortably over glasses, but the fit needs to be checked first. Contact lenses are usually easier for a session, although each person should make their own choice based on comfort and safety.

Any injury, limited movement or medical concern should be mentioned before the briefing starts. This includes recent surgery, back problems, wrist pain or anything that may affect balance and grip. We can then advise whether the session is suitable, or whether the person should watch rather than participate. A quick conversation at the start is much better than trying to push through discomfort later on.

Safety for groups, events and mobile bookings

For group bookings and event coordination, safety planning starts before the day itself. We look at the number of participants, the flow of turns and the space needed for staff to brief each group properly. That matters for private events, staff socials, student bookings and launch events where several people may arrive at once.

Mobile events need the same level of control, even when the session happens away from our Woodstock venue. The space must be suitable, with enough room for movement, safe access and a sensible setup for equipment. In Cape Town and nearby areas, we also take local conditions into account, including uneven surfaces, wind, load-shedding disruptions and venue rules around noise or waste removal.

  • Group sizes are managed so the briefing stays clear.
  • Turns are organised to avoid congestion in the room.
  • The setup must suit the venue and the people attending.
  • Staff stay on hand to guide the session from start to finish.

Questions we get asked

Do I need to bring my own safety gear?

No. The required protective gear is provided for the session, including a helmet, face shield, gloves and overalls. Closed shoes are still required, so that part must come from your side.

Can children or teenagers take part?

Minimum age rules depend on the booking type and the level of supervision available. If you are booking for younger participants, check in advance so we can confirm what is suitable for that session.

What if someone does not want to smash anything on the day?

That is fine. A person can still attend as part of the group and choose not to take part in the smashing. They may be able to watch, depending on the booking setup and venue rules.

Planning something? Send the team a message.

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