When Can a Company Be OSHA 1910.106 Flammable Storage Compliant but Still Experience Injuries in Amusement Parks?
Compliance with OSHA's 1910.106 standard for flammable liquids storage is critical, but it's not a silver bullet for safety in amusement parks. Even with strict adherence to these regulations, there's a whole other world of potential hazards that can lead to injuries.
Understanding OSHA 1910.106 Compliance
OSHA 1910.106 outlines detailed requirements for the safe storage, handling, and use of flammable and combustible liquids. This includes everything from the design of storage cabinets to the training of employees on proper handling procedures. When amusement parks follow these guidelines, they minimize the risk of fires and explosions related to flammable materials.
Why Injuries Still Occur
Despite perfect compliance with 1910.106, other factors can contribute to injuries in amusement parks. These include:
- Mechanical Failures: Even with regular maintenance, rides can fail due to unexpected mechanical issues, leading to injuries.
- Human Error: Employees or guests might not follow safety protocols, leading to accidents unrelated to flammable storage.
- Environmental Hazards: Weather conditions or other environmental factors can create unsafe conditions that compliance with 1910.106 won't address.
Real-World Examples
I've seen cases where amusement parks had their flammable storage in perfect order, yet an injury occurred because a ride malfunctioned. In one instance, a roller coaster's safety restraint failed, causing a visitor to be injured. This had nothing to do with flammable liquids but highlighted the need for comprehensive safety measures beyond just compliance with one standard.
Broader Safety Strategies
To truly safeguard against injuries, amusement parks must adopt a holistic approach to safety. This includes:
- Regular Safety Audits: Conducting thorough inspections of all park operations, not just flammable storage.
- Employee Training: Continuous training programs that cover a wide range of potential hazards and emergency responses.
- Incident Reporting and Analysis: Implementing robust systems for reporting and analyzing incidents to identify and mitigate risks.
By integrating these strategies, amusement parks can enhance their safety protocols, reducing the likelihood of injuries even when they're compliant with specific regulations like 1910.106. Remember, while compliance is essential, it's just one piece of the safety puzzle.


