Implementing Job Hazard Assessment Services in Amusement Parks: A General Manager's Guide

Amusement parks are bustling hubs of fun and excitement, but behind the scenes, safety is the real thrill. As a general manager, your role in implementing Job Hazard Assessment (JHA) services is crucial to ensuring a safe environment for both employees and guests. Let's dive into how you can effectively roll out JHAs at your park.

Understanding Job Hazard Assessments

Job Hazard Assessments are systematic processes used to identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards. In the context of an amusement park, JHAs can help pinpoint risks associated with rides, games, food service, and maintenance operations. They're not just a regulatory checkbox but a proactive approach to safety management.

Steps to Implement JHAs in Your Amusement Park

1. Assemble Your Safety Team: Start by forming a dedicated safety team. This group should include representatives from various departments such as rides, maintenance, and food services. Their diverse perspectives will help in identifying a wide range of potential hazards.

2. Conduct Initial Hazard Identification: Walk through the park with your safety team. Observe employees as they perform their tasks, from operating rides to cleaning up after guests. Document every potential hazard, no matter how minor it seems. This step is about gathering raw data to work with.

3. Develop Detailed JHA Procedures: For each identified job or task, create a detailed JHA procedure. This should include:

• A step-by-step breakdown of the task.
• Potential hazards at each step.
• Recommended control measures to mitigate these hazards.

Ensure these procedures are clear, concise, and accessible to all employees. I've found that using visual aids like diagrams or videos can significantly enhance understanding and compliance.

4. Train Your Staff: Training is where the rubber meets the road. Implement comprehensive training sessions based on the JHAs you've developed. Make sure every employee understands their role in maintaining safety. Regular refresher courses can keep safety top of mind.

5. Monitor and Review: Safety is an ongoing process. Set up a system to regularly monitor the effectiveness of your JHAs. Use incident reports and employee feedback to identify areas for improvement. Adjust your JHAs as needed to address new hazards or changes in operations.

Real-World Application and Challenges

In my experience, one of the biggest challenges in implementing JHAs at amusement parks is keeping up with the dynamic nature of the environment. Rides get updated, new games are introduced, and seasonal changes bring new hazards. It's essential to have a flexible system that can adapt to these changes.

For instance, during a busy summer season, we identified a recurring issue with slip-and-fall incidents near water attractions. By conducting a JHA, we were able to implement non-slip surfaces and additional signage, significantly reducing these incidents. This example shows how JHAs can directly translate into safer operations.

Resources and Further Reading

To deepen your understanding of JHAs and their application in amusement parks, consider exploring resources from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Their guidelines on amusement park safety can provide additional insights and best practices. Additionally, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) offers resources and networking opportunities that can support your safety initiatives.