ORLANDO, FLORIDA (May 26, 2023) – The state of Alabama has taken a significant step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of its amusement park visitors with the passage of new ride safety legislation. Signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey on May 24, Alabama joins other states around the country that align all amusement rides and attractions within the state to the rigorous safety standards set forth by the ASTM International.
The legislation, which received overwhelming support from legislators, takes aim at enhancing the safety protocols and standards for amusement park rides across the state. By aligning with the ASTM standards, Alabama is demonstrating its commitment to providing residents and visitors with the highest level of safety measures and regulations.
IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, endorses any state legislation that aligns with ASTM standards and practices.
“This approval of industry-supported ride safety oversight and standards brings the United States one step closer to total nationwide support of the industry’s safety efforts,” said Jakob Wahl, IAAPA president and chief executive officer. “With this legislation finalized, Alabama joins 47 other states with official language that enhances the industry’s safety measures.”
The ASTM International, a globally recognized leader in developing consensus standards, has long been at the forefront of establishing safety guidelines for the global attractions industry. Their comprehensive standards cover various aspects of ride design, manufacturing, operation, and maintenance, ensuring that amusement park visitors are protected from potential hazards.
Alabama’s legislation includes rider responsibility rules, third-party annual inspections for amusement rides and water slides and are deemed in accordance with ASTM standards, requires new inspections for amusement rides or water slides that have undergone major modifications, and ensures owners keep inspection records for a ride at least three years.
This legislation reinforces the state’s dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for amusement park visitors. It serves as a testament to Alabama's commitment to industry best practices and elevating the standards of ride safety.
IAAPA would like to thank Senator Greg Albritton (Senate District 22) and Representative Alan Baker (House District 66) for their leadership in introducing and shepherding this legislation into law and to Gov. Ivey and Senate Tourism Committee Chairman Randy Price for their strong support for the Alabama attractions industry.
Questions and media requests for IAAPA leadership should be emailed to Caitlin Dineen, IAAPA’s director of global communications, at [email protected].
About IAAPA
IAAPA is a diverse and dynamic community of global attractions professionals. As the largest international trade association for permanently located attractions, IAAPA unifies the attractions community, connects people to learn and grow together, and strives to promote the highest professional standards for excellence and safety around the world.
Founded in 1918, IAAPA represents leading industry attractions and supplier companies, consultants, and individual members from more than 100 countries. Members include professionals from amusement parks, theme parks, attractions, water parks, resorts, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, science centers, museums, cruise lines, manufacturers, and suppliers.
The association’s global headquarters and North America office are in Orlando, Florida, U.S. IAAPA also maintains offices in Brussels, Belgium; Hong Kong, China; Shanghai, China; and, Mexico City, Mexico. Visit IAAPA.org or connect through IAAPA’s social media channels: @IAAPAHQ #IAAPA
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