Overview
TSASK is reviewing the qualifications and training of ski lift personnel who are conducting the maintenance, repair, and replacement of ski lift equipment. The intent is to document the owner’s conformance with the minimum safety code provisions concerning passenger ropeways – CSA Z98-14 Passenger Ropeways and Passenger Conveyors published by the Canadian Standards Association.
CSA Z98-14 Clause 12.2.3 identifies the owner or owner’s representative as responsible for supervising and training maintenance personnel. This training also includes being familiar with the applicable provisions of the safety code and instruction on the manufacturer’s maintenance manuals and testing procedures.
Information from other jurisdictions and associations has noted incidents and near misses where repair personnel were exposed to potentially serious injury due to insufficient safety provisions being taken to secure this equipment.
To address this safety issue, we are requesting that each ski lift owner submit a summary of maintenance/repair personnel certifications or qualifications and a description of what procedures or training methods are being utilized in their operations to establish and maintain their knowledge and competencies.
Regardless of what type of passenger ropeway device the owner currently has licensed, the currently published edition of CSA Z98-14 Passenger Ropeway and Passenger Conveyors Safety Code must be obtained and applied by each hill operation. The owner will also ensure that personnel responsible for the repairs and maintenance of these devices be familiar with the provisions of the safety code standard as well as any manufacturer’s directives.
Please forward your summary of maintenance/repair personnel certifications or qualifications and the description of training procedures and methods to TSASK before the operating season.
Thank you for your cooperation and submission on this important safety-related issue.