Safety

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Working together to STOP... Falls from Carriers

The intent of this best practices document is to assist the ski industry with their training and operating procedures. The primary focus is to work to eliminate chairlift rider incidents. Through this initiative we can educate novice and young chairlift riders and ski industry personnel to promote, practice and participate in safe chairlift use and operation protocols throughout Ontario. The body best suited for delivery of each point is illustrated in brackets.

1.   Talk to first lime riders about proper methods of loading, riding and unloading.
      (Ski Professionals, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

2.   Younger riders may need multiple reminders of proper methods of loading, riding and unloading. 
      (Ski Professionals, ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

3.   Ensure that all signage is visible.
      (Lift Operations)

4.   Ensure that all signage is understood.
      (Ski Professionals, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations, TSSA)

5.   Introduce and promote the Look Load and Lower program.
      (Ski Professionals, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations, TSSA)

6.   Consider taking poles away from novice and young riders.
      (Ski professional, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

7.   Use additional personal in the line up to help organize and educate riders.
      (Ski professional, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

8.   Critique the position of the lift operator(s) and provide constructive feedback if necessary
      (Lift Operations)

9.   Critique the loading and unloading ramps and provide constructive feedback if necessary.
      (Lift Operations)

10. Verbalize to riders to lower restraining device and not to raise it too early.
      (Ski professional, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

11. Verbalize to young riders not to “shimmy out” onto the seat edge prior to the unloading ramp.
      (Ski professional, Ski Patrol)

12. Ensure the “Raise Restraining Device” sign is not located too far from unloading area.
      (Lift Operations, TSSA)

13. Reward young riders that practice safe riding.
      (Ski Professional,, Ski Patrol)

14. Strongly endorse a “no-nonsense” policy and enforce it.
      (Ski Professionals, Ski Patrol, Lift Operations)

15. Promote friendly communication and cross training between ski area departments. Work together to promote safety and
      encourage best practices.          
      (special encouragement between snow school and coaches, ski patrol and lift operations).