§ 23-34.1-7. Inspection of operations. (a) Each permanent or temporary device shall be inspected and tested by the department each season before operation so as to test the full operation of all control devices, speed-limiting devices, brakes, and other equipment provided for safety before a permit is issued. A copy of the inspection report shall be on file in the office of the manager of the fair or coordinator of the event before the ride is opened to the public.

(b) Each temporary major amusement device or amusement attraction must be inspected upon setup at each location by the department. The temporary major amusement device or amusement attraction shall not be permitted to operate unless the inspection has taken place. The owner or operator of the amusement ride shall be responsible for arranging or requesting the inspection at each location by contacting the department at least fourteen (14) business days prior to the arrival of the amusement ride at the location; provided, however, that if the department does not schedule an inspection within the fourteen (14) day period, the owner shall be allowed to operate the amusement ride pending the inspection, provided that the owner has an inspection scheduled and has a valid permit.

(c) The manager of a temporary major amusement device or amusement attraction must visually inspect the device daily. This inspection shall be recorded daily on a form approved by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and/or the ASTM-F24. The last fourteen (14) daily forms must be kept with the temporary major amusement device or amusement attraction. A copy of the inspection report shall be on file in the office of the manager of the fair or coordinator of the event before the ride is opened to the public.

(d) Upon proper presentation of credentials, an authorized employee of the department may enter unannounced and inspect amusement devices at any time and in a reasonable manner and shall have the right to question any owner, manager, or agent of the owner; to inspect, investigate, photograph, and sample all pertinent places, areas, and devices; and to examine and reproduce all file jackets and proof of insurance for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter. A fee may not be charged for these unannounced inspections.

(e) An amusement device or an amusement attraction which fails to pass an inspection may not be operated for public use until it has passed a subsequent inspection. If an inspector finds that an amusement ride has been involved in or is likely to become involved in an incident, failure or malfunction which, in his or her judgment, seriously affects the continued operation of the ride or device, in a manner which is unsafe to the public, then he or she shall issue an order prohibiting the operation of said ride or device until the device is made safe for operation in conformity with ASTM committee F-24 standards. Such an order shall only be removed by the commissioner, his or her designee or by court order.

History of Section. (P.L. 1997, ch. 79, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 317, § 1.)