PA Certified Amusement Ride Inspector Prep

Introduction

• This study material aims to prepare the reader to become a Certified Amusement Ride Inspector in Pennsylvania.
• Becoming a certified inspector requires a mix of experience, mechanical skill, and testing expertise.
• Not all test questions can be found in this study material.

Responsibility of the Inspector

• The inspector who signs the inspection affidavit is accountable for the information in their report.
• Each inspector must provide a signed affidavit for every ride inspected.
• For team inspections, each team member must submit an affidavit for the rides they inspected.
• Multiple signatures on one affidavit will void the document, requiring a new inspection and explanation to the Department of Agriculture.

History of the Act

• In 1984, Pennsylvania enacted the "Amusement Ride Inspection Act" (Act 1984-81).
• This law grants powers and imposes duties on the Department of Agriculture.
• It also creates the Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Board and sets civil and criminal penalties.
• The Act authorizes the Department of Agriculture to develop and enforce regulations in 7 Pa. Code, Chapter 139.

Inspector Classes

• The Department recognizes two classes of amusement ride inspection expertise.
• An inspector/operator must speak, read, and understand English to participate in the test.

Class 1 Inspector

• Class 1 is the basic inspection level.
• These inspectors can inspect non-complex rides like inflatables, bumper boats, go-karts, play ports, and water slides.

Class 2 Inspector

• Class 2 is the advanced inspection level.
• Requires a thorough understanding of complex amusement ride systems and the ability to communicate this knowledge.
• Class 2 inspectors can inspect all approved amusement rides and attractions in Pennsylvania.

Inspector ID

• Successful applicants receive a photo ID card with their class, date of issuance, and expiration date.
• Applicants are responsible for reading and understanding all information provided by the Department, including the Act, regulations, reporting forms, and procedures.

Penalties

• Applicants must fully understand their responsibilities regarding Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Amusement Ride Regulations 7 Pa. Code, Chapter 139, Section 13, Sub-Sections a, b, and c, concerning penalties.

What is Inspection

• An inspection is a visual examination of a ride or attraction.
• Meant to identify, report, and eliminate any situation that threatens the safety of human life.

Why Inspect

• Every amusement ride operator has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure safe premises.
• Inspections ensure a safe experience for visitors.

Value of Inspection

• Inspections can eliminate hazards and prevent damage to materials and equipment.
• Inspections allow an assessment of the effectiveness of maintenance, housekeeping, and training.
• Inspection data is crucial for safety incident investigations.
• Inspection programs provide on-the-job safety training for ride operators.
• Inspection records offer a paper trail for management to monitor safety.

Types of Inspection

• The minimum acceptable inspection is one that meets the manufacturer's specifications and Pennsylvania law.

Timing of Inspections

• Pennsylvania law mandates that a portable ride is inspected each time it is set up for operation.
• Permanent rides must be inspected at least once a month.
• All ride owners are encouraged to perform daily inspections and document them properly.

Inspector Responsibilities

• The inspector who signs the inspection affidavit is responsible for the information in it.
• Each inspector must provide a signed inspection affidavit for all rides they inspect.
• For team inspections, each member must submit their own inspection affidavit.
• Multiple signers on one affidavit will void it, requiring a new inspection and an explanation to the Department of Agriculture.
• This information provides insight into the demands, requirements, and responsibilities of a Certified Amusement Ride Inspector in Pennsylvania.
• Completion of Part 1 of the certification test authorizes inspection of moonwalks, bumper cars/boats, go-carts, live animal rides, miniature trains, attractions, and similar devices.
• Completing both Parts 1 and 2 allows inspection of all rides.

Grades of Fasteners

• Virtually every mechanical assembly used by industry, transportation, and construction is held together with fasteners.
• The quality of fasteners is important for ensuring the equipment is safe and reliable.
• Before selecting a fastener and determining the proper installation torque, mechanics need to know the strength of each grade.
• This is important when an OEM-specified bolt is removed for regular maintenance; it must be replaced with the SAME grade.
• Using a lesser grade bolt could lead to accidents, property damage, personal injury, and liability suits.
• Standards and specifications for fasteners are defined by four nationally recognized technical groups of engineers who established methods for identifying fastener grades.

SAE

• Society of Automotive Engineers

ASTM

• American Society for Testing and Materials

ISO

• International Standards Organization

IFI

• Industrial Fastener Institute

Standard Markings

• Besides grade markings, most North American fasteners have the manufacturer's ID logo.
• A listing of these logos is found in the IFI-122 publication.
• The purpose of the logo is for identity and traceability and ensures that fasteners meet SAE specifications.
• Imported bolts with only three radial lines on the head may not adhere to U.S. laws.
• There is no incoming inspection of imported fasteners by the brokerage firms that import and distribute them.
• Always verify what you are buying with imported bolts.
• It's impossible to trace the manufacturer of an imported fastener without a manufacturer's ID.
• Original equipment manufacturers have upgraded to the 9.8 Property Class due to the downsizing trend in the automotive industry.
• Never substitute a Grade 6 fastener for a Grade 8.

Glossary of Terms

• ASTM: American Society for Testing Materials (Chemical & Physical Specifications).
• ANSI: American National Standards Institute (Dimensional Specifications).
• SAE: Society of Automotive Engineers (Specification of Grade 5 and Grade 8 Hardware).
• ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
• ISO: International Organization for Standards.
• FQA: Fastener Quality Act (Public Law 101-592) To be enacted May 27, 1998.

Waterpark Attractions

• Waterparks pose unique challenges for inspectors due to the differences between facilities and attractions.
• Safety parameters should be cautiously set in these aquatic recreation centers, avoiding generalization.
• Waterpark inspections involve fewer mechanical considerations compared to regular amusement rides.
• Guests have more control over their experience, making the inspection process more complex.

Key to Waterpark Operations

• The key is having attentive, well-trained staffing.
• Pay close attention to employee procedures, behavior, training, and conduct, as well as the attractions themselves.
• Ensure that a documented training and operations program is on file and implemented.
• Check rescue equipment for condition and availability.

Serpentine Slides

• All slides must be supervised at the dispatch point.
• The workstation setup and traffic control must ensure the attendant can stop guests from entering the flume without permission.
• There should be no significant water dripping from slide joints.
• Examine the structural conditions for rust or scaling.
• There should be no buckles or unaligned joints in the slide path, and no raw fiberglass edges within reach.
• This often requires walking the slide before or after park hours.

Speed Slides

• Typically have straight slide paths, flat bottoms, near vertical sidewalls, short distances, vertical drops, and high speeds
• Usually end in run-out chutes or catch pools.
• Safety depends on guests following instructions from the dispatch attendant, and clear communication between attendants.

Catch Pools

• Size can vary by attraction, but the distance from the slide mouth to the opposite wall should be 20-25 feet.
• Water depth can vary, but 36 inches is a standard guide at the slide exit, especially if the discharge point is more than 2 inches above the pool surface.
• Staff should prevent guests from lingering or playing in the catch pool.
• If the slide discharges into a conventional swimming pool, the catch area must be marked clearly and monitored by a dedicated guard.

Slow Rivers

• These are manmade streams with a slow current, generally 2-3 mph.
• Usually between 8-14 feet in width and 27-48 inches in depth.
• Guests float on innertubes and must sit or recline at all times.
• Requires attentive guarding staff following the 10/20 rule.
• Access to the rivers must be fenced to define entry and exit points, with clear guard access to the perimeter.
• The river must meet standard operating procedures, including depth markers and identification of discontinuities in the side walls and floors where booster nozzles are located.

Wave Pools

• Vary Widely In Type and Style
• Includes the wave action pool, which produces one or more wave patterns.
• Generally have a crown to valley displacement of less than 3-4 feet.
• Typically 75% of the pool surface is less than 4 feet deep.

Guard Adherence

• Guards must closely adhere to the 10/20 rule
• Must aggressively control horseplay among the guests.
• Waves are on for 10-12 minutes and off for a similar amount of time.
• Guests tend not to leave the water to rest unless the waves stop.
• Tsunami pools generate a single large wave, up to 8 feet high, on a slower frequency.
• Unlike action pools, these have secondary wave patterns, draughts, cross currents, and back flows.
• Access to both types of pools should be limited to the "zero depth end".
• The rest of the perimeter should be marked or fenced to prevent guest access.
• Guests may not hang on side ladders, which should be marked for emergency use only.

Activity Pools

• These are for small children, feature a random array of play attractions in water which ranges from very shallow to several feet in depth.
• The play attractions must be supervised and controlled by staff and parents.
• Parent supervision should be required.
• Adult pools may reach depths of up to 13 feet if the attractions drop guests a significant distance.
• Diving is never allowed, but jumping feet first is allowed in deeper areas.
• These deeper pools require close supervision, cable drop rides, cannonball slides, rock jumps, swing-out slides, and similar devices require supervised dispatch and monitoring of the catch areas.
• Verifying the total number of lifeguards on duty and proper placement to minimize glare is important.

Lifeguard Chairs Needed

• 0 Chairs for under 1000 sq. ft.
• 1 Chair for 1001-2000 sq. ft.
• 2 Chairs for 2001-4000 sq. ft.
• 3 Chairs for 4001-6000 sq. ft.
• 4 Chairs for 6001-8000 sq. ft.
• 5 Chairs for 8001-10000 sq. ft.
• Over 10,000 sq ft, the ratio should be 1 chair for every 2000 sq ft. in order to give minimal glare.

Checklist for Pools

• Inspection of equipment and attractions
• Check of operational and training procedures
• Monitoring of staff and guest conduct during operations
• Signage

Go-Karts

• A safe go-kart facility requires inspection of the go-karts, track, pit area and barrier systems.
• Follow manufacturer's specifications and ASTM standards.

Track and Pit Area Checklist

• Walk the entire length of the track and pit area, removing any debris.
• The track and pit area should be swept or vacuumed prior to opening each day.
• Drainage elements should also be checked and cleared of any debris.
• Check metal rail elements for broken welds, damage/loose bolts, kinks, and sharp edges.
• Rubber elements (tires, D rubbers, etc.) must be inspected for failure, fatigue, proper fastening, and cracking.
• Gates to the pit area must be in good working order with functioning locks.
• Defects in the barrier system or pit area must be repaired before opening.
• Check the track and pit surface for holes, cracks, open joints, or broken pavement.
• Repair any existing or potential problems.
• The perimeter fencing must restrict access to riders, with clearly marked entrance and exit points.
• Fences and queue lines should be in good repair and free of sharp edges or catch points.
• Post legible, visible and enforced signage explaining rules and restrictions at the entrance to the track.
• Verify the proper operation, volume and clarity of audio systems with signage, if present.
• Track and pit area lighting must provide adequate visibility for evening operations.
• Check all lights and wiring for proper repair and compliance with the National Electric Code.
• Fire extinguishers must be in good working order, easily accessible and located in the proper places.

Kart Checklist

• The structural inspection should start with the frame, ensuring it's straight, with no bent, broken, or dented tubing.
• Check all welds for cracks and ensure that the body is secured to the frame.
• Make sure there are no missing panels or pieces, sharp or rough edges.
• Tires should be in good condition with no signs of dry rot or cracking and are inflated to the proper pressure.
• Check the wheels and hubs for cracks or damage.
• Inspect the wheel studs and lug nuts, ensuring they are tight and none are missing.
• All karts must have wheel protection and bumpers.
• The steering mechanisms need to be examined for excessive free play, bent tie rods, or worn bolts and pins.
• All karts must have padding on the steering wheel.
• There should be nothing to obstruct the full turning range of the wheels.
• Check the condition of the drive and braking systems.
• All sprockets, pulleys, chains, and belts must be in good condition and free from defects.
• Brakes should work and not cause the kart to pull to either side and guards must be in place to prevent contact.
• Check the engine and lines for gas and oil leaks along with padding on the steering wheel and headrest.

Reasons to Shut Down Track Operations

1. Broken or failed sections of the barrier system.
2. Failure of the lighting system during and night operations.
3. Serious incidents on the track.
4. Pavement failures or holes on the driving surface.
5. Fuel spills
6. Rain
7. Standing water on the track
8. Heavy deposits of dirt, leaves or other debris

• Each facility should have have written policies and procedures for addressing each problem listed and have procedures for training, maintenance, and inspection.

Inflatable Attractions

Setting Up

• The site should be free of debris and overhead obstructions.
• The inflatable should be fully stretched out and anchored according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Before plugging in the blower(s), ensure the proper voltage and amperage.

Daily Inspection

• Check the ride and surrounding area for debris and that the blowers and anchoring devices are properly attached.
• Inspect the blower(s) for guards and shields.
• Check electrical cords for defects and proper connections.
• Inflate the ride to check inside and out for rips, tears, and debris.
• Look for signs of aging and cracking.
• Make sure the warning sign is present, legible, and visible.

Operating procedures

• Each operator should read and understand the operator's manual.
• Don't operate the ride in high winds and exceed the rated capacity.
• Riders must remove their shoes and loose or sharp objects, including facial jewelry.
• The operator should always supervise riders and not allow any horseplay.

Maintenance and Repair

• All maintenance or repairs should be done according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Use materials from or recommended by the manufacturer.

Emergency Procedures

• Have an emergency procedure policy.
• During an emergency, the operator should remain calm and help patrons exit safely.
• Enforce the company's policy for shutting down a ride, and have the ride inspected by a qualified inspector before putting it back in service.

Substance Abuse

• Substance abuse indicators must be observed and documented by the trained supervisor.
• Supervisors must know the organizations program, policies, and federal regulations.
• The policy must be explained to all employees.
• Some indicators may result from personal/health problems instead of substance abuse.
• Indicators include performance, behavior, physical signs, and speech.

The Problem of Alcohol

• Alcohol is a significant problem in the workplace.
• Can cause increased absenteeism and decreased productivity.
• A can of beer, a glass of wine, or a shot of liquor equals of a drink in ethanol.
• BAC refers to the concentration of alcohol in the blood.
• One drink raise the BAC to .02% and is typically reduced by .02% per hour.
• Alcohol is the most abused drug followed by prescription drugs.
• Cough syrup and mouth wash can produce a positive test; there is never a false positive for alcohol.
• Heavy drinking is 5 or more drinks per occasion for more than 5 days per month. The occasional drinker will have a more difficult time hiding the signs than an experienced drinker. It's also difficult to see the signs of misuse because certain people develop a high tolerance to the effects of alcohol.

Indicators of Alcohol

• Change in safety prodecures
• Inefficient work or slowed down
• Asking unusual questions or Confusion
• Comparing to Past Behavior
• Boisterous, Argumentive, Avoidance, and Withdrawal
• Breath of Body Odor
• Loss of Coordination, Change in Appearance, and Sluggishness
• Slurred, Slowed or Exaggerated Speech
• Nonsensical Speech Pattern

Marijuana

• The active ingredient is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
• Whether smoked or ingested, it creates relaxation, dreaminess, and enhancement.
• One/two joints of marijuana will stay in the system for two/three days.
• If the use occurs 3-4 times a week, the metabolite will stay in the system 2-11 weeks.

Symptoms of Marijuana

• Relaxed Inhibitions and increased appetite
• Irritated airways, dry mouth, errors in judgement
• General Apathy and Moodiness
• Loss of Energy

Cocaine

• A powerfully addictive stimulant that is typically inhaled, swallowed or injected.
• Crack, a form of cocaine, is often smoked.
• creates and excited followed by self esteem.
• Users want to repeat due to effects only lasting a short period of time
• Cocaine may be detected in urine for 2 to 4 days.
• Symptoms include nasal problems, sleeplessness and anxiety.

Symptoms of Cocaine

• Nasal and Sleep Problems
• Anxiety
• Alertness, Combativiness, and Tremors
• Increased Self-Esteem

Opiates

• Opiates can often be detected in urine for 1-2 days.
• Examples include morphine, codeine, and percocdan.
• Injected or Swallowed

Symptoms of Opiates

• Constricted Pupils, Slowed Speech, and Breathing
• Sweating, Chills, Muscle Aches
• Nausea, yawning, or Drowsiness

Amphetamines

• It may also bring auditory, visual to tactile hallucinations.
• Can be detected up to 2 days.
• They are swallowed or injected to enhance focus and reduce fatigue.

Symptoms of Amphetimines

• Include Depression and Exhuastion
• Agitation and Apathy

###PCP (Phencyclidine)

• Can be detected between 2-8 days
• Smoked and Inhaled that has side effects

Symptoms of PCP

• Weakness and Dizziness
• Blurred Vision and High Heart Rate

National Electrical Code

Article 525 - Carnivals, Circuses, Fairs, & Similar Events

General Requirements

• This article covers the installation of portable wiring and equipment for carnivals, circuses, exhibitions, fairs, traveling attractions and similar functions.

Other Articles

• Permanent structures must follow Articles 518 and 520.
• Whenever other articles of the Code and Article 525 differ, Article 525 applies to portable wiring and equipment.

Protection of Electrical Equipment

• Provide mechanical protection for all equipment and wiring methods subject to physical damage on rides, concessions, etc.

Installation

Power Sources

• Separately Derived Systems:
• Service equipment must not be installed in a location accessible to unqualified persons unless it is lockable.
• Transformers must comply with Section 230-3(a), (b)(3) and (c); Section 250-30; and Article 450.
• Service. Services shall be installed in accordance with applicable requirements of Article 230
• Service equipment must be mounted on a solid backing
• Must be protected from weather

Conductor Clearances

• Vertical: Follow section 225-18. Applies only to wiring outside of tents and concessions.
• Ride and Attractions: Maintain 15ft (4.57m) in any direction from overhead conductors operating at no more than 600 volts.
• Do not locate rides or attractions under or within 15ft (4.57 m) horizontally of conductors operating at more than 600 volts.

Wiring Methods

• Type: Must comply with Chapter 1-4. Flexible cords or cables shall be listed for hard usage. Flexible cords and cables used outdoors must be sunlight resistant and be made for wet conditions
• Single Conductor: Only permitted in sizes No. 2 or larger.
• Open Conductors: Only prohibited except as part of a listed assembly of festoon lighting installed under Article 255.
• Splices: Flexible cords and cables must be continuous without splices or taps between boxes or fittings. Connectors shall not be laid on ground unless listed for outdoor use.
• Wiring for an amusement ride, attraction, or tent, shall not be supported by any other ride or structure

Inside Locations

• Follow mechanical regulations
• Temporary lamps protected by lampshades

Other NEC Requirements

• Boxes and Fittings: at each connection point, outlet, switchpoint, or junction point.
• Portable boxes must be designed to be weatherproof with proper equipment
• Boxes must be rated at 6in from ground
• Ground Receptacles must use Ground Interrupters
• General 115v must use Receptacles

Additional NEC Requirements

• Overcurrent Protection
• Motors- Articles 240 and 420
• Ground Fault Circuiting
• Ground and Bonding with articles 250
• Disconnecting Means
• With article 525-30 with each concession

Article 680

• Fountains are in line with this article

Inspectors Guide to The National Electrical Code

• Aid amusement ride inspections
• Must be fully complete and inclusive.

Extra NEC codes for Inspections

• 90-2 Scope: includes carnivals, including 525.
• 110-12.1 Wiring: Install in a neat and orderly way
• 110-13 Mount electrical equipment with appropriate cables.

Electrical Code Numbers

• 200-6: Grounded connector- white wire
• 250-91(b): Rods- Cover wires

Article 240

• Overcurrent
• Fuses
• Cords

NDT

• Plays important role
• Make sure NDT is documented and followed
• Consult the manufacturer for developing for the program

Tests to be implemented

• UItrasonic
• Radiography
• Visual

Common applications

• Supports, sweeps, and cables

Hydraulic Hose

• Made for pressure systems
• Oil resistant
• Assembly is very important
• Flushed out before installing

Check Hoses

• Make sure it is right length
• Measure both ends
• Hoses shouldnt be over tighten
• Need to use correct grade

Parameters look

• Look Neat
• Use fewer fittings
• Keep lines away from components
• Use Clamps

Adapter Functions

• Join or Tubes together
• Bulk, rather then to go around

###Flexing Applications

• A-Watch for Abrasion
• B-Give plenty of Hose

Leakage Control

• Control to lower risk
• Cleanliness can't be forgotten
• Can shut down pump

Common Causes of Hose

• High Temperature and Pressure
• Too Small of Radius
• Hoses can rupture
• Wrong size on hoses

Routing Installments

• Leave with plenty of slack
• Improper installmentments can damage the house