Skip to main content

IAAPA endorses new ride safety legislation in Alabama

News
Alabama-Whama-park-at-OWA

The new laws align with the ASTM Standards

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has endorsed new ride safety legislation which was passed in Alabama, US, last week.

On 24 May, Governor Kay Ivey signed new legislation into law that aligns all amusement rides and attractions in Alabama with the stringent safety standards established by ASTM International. States across the US have adopted these safety standards, and with the passing of new ride safety regulations Alabama has made great progress in ensuring the security and well-being of its amusement park visitors.

The legislation, which has gained resounding support from lawmakers, aims to raise the standards and procedures for amusement park rides throughout the state. Alabama proves its commitment to offering citizens and visitors the greatest degree of safety measures and regulations by aligning with the ASTM standards.

ASTM standards receive IAAPA support

All state legislation that adheres to ASTM standards and practices is supported by IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry.

Jakob Wahl, IAAPA president and chief executive officer, says: “This approval of industry-supported ride safety oversight and standards brings the United States one step closer to total nationwide support of the industryā€™s safety efforts. With this legislation finalized, Alabama joins 47 other states with official language that enhances the industryā€™s safety measures.”

As a world-renowned leader in developing consensus standards, ASTM International are an authority on setting safety guidelines for the global attractions industry. Their thorough guidelines safeguard amusement park guests from potential risks by addressing a variety of ride design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance issues.

The new legislation in Alabama covers rider responsibility rules and third-party yearly inspections of water slides and amusement rides that meet the ASTM standards. New inspections are also required for amusement rides or water slides that have been significantly altered. Operators are required to keep all inspection records for a period of at least three years.

The new legislation demonstrates Alabama’s dedication to upholding industry best practices and raising standards for ride safety and sets out the state’s commitment to ensuring the best experience for amusement park guests – which is both safe and fun.

IAAPA has extended its thanks to Governor Ivey and Senate Tourism Committee chairman Randy Price for their support of the Alabama attractions sector, and to Senator Greg Albritton (Senate District 22) and Representative Alan Baker (House District 66) for their leadership and dedication in achieving the new legislation.

IAAPA has this month released details of the Opening Ceremony for this yearā€™s IAAPA Expo Asia in Singapore. The event will include an executive roundtable discussion with the Associationā€™s president and chief executive officer and chair of the IAAPA Board of Directors.

Top image: Alabama Whamā€™a, Tropic Falls at OWA

Share this
Rebecca Hardy blooloop

Rebecca Hardy

Rebecca Hardy has been working in the culture and heritage sector for over 10 years. She studied Fine Art at university and now writes for a broad range of creative organisations including artists, galleries, museums and retailers. When she's not writing, she spends her time getting lost in the woods and making mud pies with her young son.

More from this author

More from this author

Related content

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Find out how to update