Essential Steps to Minimize Risks from Water Slide Equipment
Audio:
Text:
What measures can operators of water parks, health clubs, or activity parks take to prevent or lessen the risk of customer injuries? What actions might be perceived as negligent or unreasonable in a courtroom setting? How can operators demonstrate to a jury that they prioritise customer safety, have taken reasonable precautions to prevent injuries, and should not be held accountable when an injury occurs? The following best practices can assist water park operators in avoiding liability:
Training, training, training! Nothing appears worse to a jury than a young, inexperienced, seasonally employed ride operator or lifeguard who has received minimal training in preparing customers for rides, identifying issues, and responding when problems arise. Even more concerning is someone who has learned their job by observing another casually trained, inexperienced employee. All employees should receive training at the start of their employment in the safe operating procedures for all activities that could cause injury.
Special attention should be given to the specific activity they are assigned to, including procedures for handling issues with rides or customers, and the appropriate actions to take when an injury occurs. Engaging an external company certified in the safe operation of recreational water slide equipment at the beginning of seasonal staff training reinforces the perception that an operator is responsible and safety-conscious. It also prevents arguments that the operator lacks the qualifications (by credentials, training, or experience) to train its staff in safety procedures.
Check and double-check. It reflects well when a supervisor, manager, or loss prevention employee periodically monitors operations to ensure that personnel are adhering to their training, such as verifying that customers meet the proper weight, height, and age requirements, are wearing suitable footwear, and are correctly positioned on the attraction. They should also ensure that staff are not engaging in inappropriate activities, like texting or checking social media. While there is no strict rule on how often a supervisor should conduct a walk-around, once a season is insufficient. Ideally, several times a week is preferable. Periodic monitoring also reinforces training and informs management about which messages are not being effectively communicated.
For more detailed guidelines on water slide safety, operators can refer to resources provided by Lanchao.
