Paintball is an Extreme sport, safe participation in paintball requires observance of proper safety procedure. When safety rules are followed, paintball is extremely safe.
There are only 5 safety rules, but we certainly take them very seriously. The only other 'rule' is that you have fun. Before each game the Marshall holds a safety briefing where the rules will be explained to all players to ensure that they are understood. These safety rules and game formats as used at The Funderdome
Providing the safety equipment fit them properly, I have nothing against people under the 'legal age of consent' playing paintball. (With parental permission, that is.) In fact, paintball just may teach kids some important life skills. Winning doesn't matter, race, creed, age, religion doesn't matter, respect for authority, safety, and determined effort brings reward. Best of all, it teaches them to see a loss, not as failure, but as a learning experience.
The safety equipment is designed to withstand multiple impacts from paintballs that are travelling far above the industry safe standard. (In other words they hold up over and about the 'worst case scenario' like all safety equipment should.) Few people have been injured playing paintball. Accident statistics show that paintball has less injuries than bowling!
There are safety rules, field rules and game rules. In order to be permitted to play, you must abide by them. Cheaters are not well liked in this sport and they are quickly ostracized.