24 Apr Amusement Park Hazards

Amusement Park Hazards

Amusement park hazards – and theme parks and amusement parks are favorite recreational spots for families and kids, but behind the fun are serious hazards that require workers to remain alert. Amusement park hazards can often be alarming. Amusement and theme park workers have one of the highest injury, illness, and fatality rates in the industry, so get training on the mechanical hazards associated with rides, lockout/tagout, safe ride operation, and hazard recognition and reporting.

Workers that improperly access ride areas have been run over, dragged, and struck by ride carriages, cars, and arms and suffered serious injuries and fatalities. Workers that tried to dodge or board moving rides or ride improperly have also suffered injuries and fatalities. To avoid these accidents, get training on the hazards and safe work practices for each piece of equipment that you operate, maintain, test, and repair.

Be familiar with your workplace Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). Know the workplace hazards identified in the IIPP and how to manage them. Be responsible for safety and follow safe work practices. Report and correct unsafe work conditions and acts.

Know and use the lockout/tagout procedures that cover the hazards and power isolation method for each ride or piece of equipment in the park. Never enter a ride area or access ride mechanical parts, even if they seem “off” or “shut down,” unless the equipment has been locked out/tagged out.

When operating a ride, clear the ride area of obstacles so you have a good view. Cameras and/or mirrors eliminate blind spots. When riding for fun, or to test a ride, sit in the ride properly and keep your hands, legs, feet, and head inside the car. Do not stand on couplings between cars or any other footholds on the outside of cars. These areas and other operating parts should be labeled with hazard warnings.

Never enter a ride area while it is operating. Warning signs should be placed at all ride area entrances to restrict access. While a ride is operating, stay within the areas marked as safe for ride attendants. These areas should be clearly marked with paint, railings, and/or floor surfacing materials to identify them. Interlock doors, infrared lights and sensors, and pressure-sensitive mats restrict access to a ride area while it is in motion. Do not tamper with these safety features.

Minimum age requirements for ride operators ensure that workers have the maturity necessary to run rides in a safe manner. If you have problems operating a ride or are unsure about safe work practices, notify your supervisor immediately and get more training.

Work smart at the park by using safe work practices and behavior.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.