The ride operator/attendant has full control over most rides and must be proactive and able to react quickly to situations that arise.
The ride industry's safety record has improved significantly through inspections, ride maintenance, safe operations, and better ride designs, and ride operators/attendants play an important role in maintaining ride safety.
Most countries have occupational health and safety legislation designed to protect the health and safety of workers and the public. Here is a discussion of the role ride operators/attendants play in maintaining the highest possible level of safety on the rides they work on.
Ride operators/attendants should work safely, receive as much training as possible in the safe operation of the equipment they work with, and remain alert to avoid safety hazards.
Amusement ride operators/attendants must not engage in dangerous activities such as playing on horseback, showing off, or any behavior unbecoming on the job.
Each amusement ride operator/attendant is responsible for workplace safety. They are responsible for their own safety as well as that of other employees and the general public.
Here are some basic rules for a safe workplace that amusement ride operators/attendants should follow:
• Make sure you know and follow all safety rules and procedures
• Keep your environment neat, clean and safe
• Immediately report dangerous situations that could lead to an accident
• Complete inspection checklists before using the ride
• Develop safe work habits and participate in safety training
Additionally, there are a number of workplace hazards that amusement ride operators/attendants need to be on the lookout for and attend to immediately:
• Anything that can cause someone to trip
• Anything that can cause someone to bump their head
• Anything that can cause someone to splinter
• Anything that can bring someone down
•Anything that can cause someone to cut themselves
Ride operators/attendants must work in accordance with applicable health and safety legislation in their area. They must also follow their employer's safety policies and procedures. They must also take care not to work when they are tired. Breaks should be removed from the ride to allow ride operators/attendants to relax properly so they can return to work rested and refreshed.
It is of the utmost importance that amusement ride operators/attendants are fully familiar with the rides they operate. They should observe the operation of the ride and the movements involved in their operation until they fully understand them.
Each ride has a safety zone, which is the area from which the ride is operated. This safety zone is usually designated by the manufacturer or owner of the ride, and should be clearly defined and fenced, so that it can be easily identified by riders. The safety zone must also be an area easily controlled by the operators/attendants of the ride. The Safety Zone is for the personal safety of ride operators/attendants while the ride is in motion and should never be left while the ride is in motion or before it has come to a complete stop.
Equally important is the safety of ride operators/attendants and their passengers. Unsafe driving practices are the leading cause of incidents on all types of rides.
Rider responsibility should be encouraged, and ride operators/attendants can play an important role in this. Safety instructions must be clearly posted at the entrance to the ride and ride operators/attendants must strictly enforce them.
It is especially important to reach out to parents of young children and enlist their help and support in promoting safe driving practices and enforcing all safety guidelines.
• Be alert to hazardous conditions that could cause tripping or falling on the operator platform or steps
• Be alert to hazardous conditions that could cause injury
• Always check that seat belts or safety restraints are fastened and locked in place before starting the journey
• Be careful not to close the door or hold any part of the rider's body while riders are getting on or off the ride
• If there is even a suspicion that a rider is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they should not be allowed to do so
• Remind passengers to follow the posted rules for the ride regarding age, height and/or weight restrictions
• Be sure to warn pregnant women and people with heart problems of the possible risks of using the ride
• Remind passengers to keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all times
• Remind passengers to remain seated until the ride has come to a complete stop
If there are issues with a passenger or parent due to ride restrictions or behaviors, ride operators/attendants must not operate the ride. They must stop the ride if it is in motion and only resume operation once the problem has been resolved.
Ride operators/attendants should always report all safety-related matters to their immediate supervisor, the insurance company and local safety authorities. They should also inform and consult with the amusement ride manufacturer.
Ride operators/attendants must never leave the ride while it is in operation.
Ride operators/attendants must supervise the ride and passengers at all times during operation.
Remembering and following these rules when operating rides will greatly increase the chances of a safe and enjoyable time for everyone, riders and operators/guides, while reducing the prospect of stricter insurance conditions and licensing requirements for ride hirers/operators.
