Ensuring Fun and Safety: A Look at Florida Amusement Park Regulations
Florida amusement parks operate under stringent safety regulations designed to protect visitors. These regulations are overseen by various state and local agencies, including the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). FDACS is responsible for inspecting rides and issuing operating permits. Amusement parks are required to conduct daily safety inspections and maintain detailed records of ride maintenance, malfunctions, and repairs.
The state mandates that all amusement rides meet the standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International, which cover everything from ride design and construction to operation and maintenance. Compliance with these standards is mandatory and is periodically reviewed through unannounced state inspections . These inspections ensure that all mechanical and structural components of the rides are in top condition and that the rides operate as intended without posing risks to the public.
The Tyre Sampson Act: Enhancing Safety Measures
The recent introduction of the Tyre Sampson Act has marked a significant step forward in the evolution of amusement park safety regulations in Florida. This legislation was named after Tyre Sampson, a 14-year-old boy who tragically died from injuries sustained after falling from an amusement ride in Orlando. The act specifically targets the safety protocols of rides that are not permanently installed, often found at fairs or temporary installations.
The Tyre Sampson Act mandates stricter control measures, including more rigorous reporting of ride malfunctions and incidents. It requires ride operators to provide more comprehensive training to employees and to implement enhanced safety protocols that align with the latest industry standards. Additionally, the act calls for increased transparency with the public, necessitating clearer signage regarding ride risks and more accessible reporting on ride safety records.
Enforcement of Safety Standards
Enforcement of safety standards in Florida’s amusement parks is a collaborative effort involving state regulators, park operators, and sometimes third-party safety experts. When a ride is found to be in violation of safety standards during an inspection, immediate action is taken to rectify the issues. This can range from temporary shutdowns of the ride to more severe penalties, including fines and revocation of operating licenses if the violations are not addressed promptly.
The enforcement process also involves regular training sessions for park employees, focusing on emergency procedures, proper operation of rides, and customer safety. Public complaints and accident reports are taken seriously, often triggering re-inspections or deeper investigations into the operational practices at the parks.
Contact Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, Florida Injury Lawyers
Florida’s commitment to maintaining stringent safety standards in its amusement parks is evident in the regulations and the recent enactment of the Tyre Sampson Act. These measures ensure that the state’s amusement parks continue to be safe and enjoyable for all visitors. At Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, we are dedicated to ensuring that safety standards are upheld and that justice is served in cases of negligence. If you or a loved one has experienced an incident at an amusement park, contact us for expert legal guidance and support.
Reach out to our experienced team at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather for dedicated legal assistance. We are here to help ensure that safety standards are strictly followed and that your rights are protected.
Sources:
wusf.org/politics-issues/2023-05-12/floridas-new-theme-park-safety-law-mandate-regular-ride-inspections-employee-training
flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/902/BillText/er/HTML
