The United Kingdom Paintball Association (UKPBA) is a non-profit-making association dedicated to supporting and promoting paintball in the UK. Established in 1989, it has supported the sport for more than three decades. As of 2026, UKPBA reports that its wider membership and player community has exceeded 500,000 people, including current and former players. The association works with venues, trade members, suppliers and players to promote good practice, safety, clearer customer information and responsible operation.
UKPBA membership includes venue operators and other paintball industry participants. Venue listings and accreditations are intended to help customers identify operators committed to appropriate safety, service and customer-care standards. In 2026, assessment may consider insurance, risk management, staff competence, maintained equipment, suitable facilities, first-aid arrangements, player briefings and clear customer information. Operators remain responsible for meeting all legal, regulatory and insurance requirements relevant to their business and location. Typical areas considered include:
- Maintain appropriate public liability insurance for the activities offered.
- Maintain employers’ liability insurance where legally required.
- Meet applicable employment, tax and payroll obligations.
- Provide clear pricing, receipts and customer terms.
- Store and handle regulated equipment and materials in line with current legal requirements.
- Document site risk assessments and review them regularly.
- Maintain a clearly managed safe zone with controls appropriate to the venue risk assessment:
- Control markers outside live game and designated handling areas
- Use suitable boundary controls and netting where required by the site risk assessment
- Provide suitable welfare and toilet facilities
- Provide a clearly managed safe zone and appropriate customer facilities
- Meet food hygiene requirements wherever food is prepared or sold
- Provide appropriate senior supervision for each session.
- Provide paintball eye and face protection suitable for the activity and player group.
- Train staff for their assigned roles, including safety briefings and game supervision.
- Have markers and pressure systems inspected and serviced by competent personnel.
- Inspect and replace pressure vessels in line with manufacturer guidance and applicable rules.
- Keep rental clothing and protective equipment clean and serviceable.
- Ensure staff handling food have suitable training where required.
- Maintain suitable first-aid arrangements, emergency procedures and incident records.
- Meet environmental and land-management obligations relevant to the venue.
- Grant entry to no player under 7 years of age for special junior paintball events.
