Rules Will Mean Safer Rides at Amusement Parks

Nova Scotia now has the strongest public safety protections in the country for the maintenance of amusement rides.

New rules mean that mechanics will soon require certification in order to work on the rides. The certification process has been developed to recognize that mechanics and inspectors must keep up with technological advances and safety requirements in order to safely erect and maintain rides.

The process -- adopted with the support of the industry and in consultation with the province of New Brunswick and the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) -- is attracting attention.

"Not only are we making it safer for Nova Scotians but we're also being asked to share our approach with other jurisdictions," said Michael Baker, acting Minister of Environment and Labour. "Our regulations are also being considered by the National Public Safety Advisory Committee as the superior model in Canada."

By working closely with industry, staff from the Department of Environment and Labour have been able to create improvements which increase the level of responsibility and competency for owners and mechanics, while minimizing disruptions or additional burdens for operators.

NSCC will provide the required certification training for both provinces, which will adopt consistent standards. The common certification training will lead to mutual acceptance of inspection results.

Mechanics will have until Aug. 1, 2006, 12 months after the regulations come into effect, to obtain a certificate.

"This is another example of the province's ability to work with other jurisdictions in an effort to increase intergovernmental streamlining," said Mr. Baker.

Nova Scotia is committed to creating a competitive climate that supports business while, at the same time, ensuring the protection of the things that are important to Nova Scotians -- public health and safety, a clean environment and safe workplaces.