TITLE 685 REGULATED AMUSEMENT DEVICE SAFETY BOARD
Emergency Rule
LSA Document #06-269(E)
DIGEST
Temporarily adds a rule to regulate bungee jumping and bungee jumping facilities as provided in P.L.32-2006. Effective August 1, 2006.
SECTION 1. (a) Purpose. The purpose of this document is to specify the site and site approval, testing of equipment, the management of the operation, the operating procedures, the provisions and emergency procedures relating bungee jump facilties [sic.] and bungee jumping.
(b) Each bungee jump facility also is subject to all other applicable the [sic.] provisions of 685 IAC 1.
(c) Each bungee jump facility shall be considered a separate amusement device.
SECTION 2.
Definitions. The definitions in 685 IAC 3 and the following shall apply throughout this document:
(1) "Binding – ankle" means material used to wrap and hold together the jumpers' ankles. The binding is tied together and attached to the bungee cord.
(2) "Binding of cord" means material used to hold the cord threads in place and protect the cord threads from damage.
(3) "Breaking load" means the stress or tension steadily applied and just sufficient to break or rupture.
(4) "Bumper" means a padded sleeve or covering on the bungee cord and connecting straps or devices to prevent the jumper from contacting or becoming entangled in the bungee cord or connecting straps or devices.
(5) "Bungee catapulting or reverse bungee jumping" means the sport, activity, or practice whereby a person is attached to a bungee cord which is stretched and then released, thus catapulting or otherwise launching the jumper into the air from a fixed position. This definition does not include the sport, activity, or practice whereby a participant is strapped into a bungee harness on the ground, attached to a bungee cord, and lifted directly from the ground into the air without the use of a catapult, slingshot, or other similar device, nor does it apply to other amusement devices or amusement attractions which may utilize a bungee cord as a component, and the patron or patrons are contained in a rigid structural carrier and no overhead obstruction exists which may impact or otherwise strike the carrier or patron, thereby posing a hazard. "Ground", as used in this paragraph [subdivision], includes the ground, an air bag or air cushion, a launch pad, or other similar object from which the participant is lifted or released.
(6) "Bungee cord" means the elastic rope made of rubber, latex, or other elastic-type materials, whether natural or synthetic, to which the jumper is attached and which lengthens and shortens and thus produces a bouncing action.
(7) "Bungee jumping" means a fall or jump from a height by an individual who is attached to an elastic cord that prevents the individual from hitting the ground, water, or other solid, semisolid, liquid, or elastic surface.
(8) "Department" means the department of homeland security established pursuant to IC 10-19.
(9) "Division" means the division of fire and building safety of the department.
(10) "Dynamic loading" means the load placed on the rigging and attachments by the initial free fall of the jumper and the bouncing movements of the jumper.
(11) "Equipment" means each component that is utilized in a bungee jump facility, including power or manually operated devices to raise, lower and hold loads.
(12) "Incident" means an event that could or does result in injury to a person, damage to equipment, or the interruption or stopping of bungee jump facility activities.
(13) "Jump direction" means the direction in which a jumper is aimed when jumping from the jump point.
(14) "Jump operator" means a person who has responsibility for managing the bungee jumping facility, who takes a jumper through the final stages to the actual jump or release, and who has direct control of the starting, stopping, or speed of the bungee jump facility.
(15) "Jumper" means the person who falls from a height attached to a bungee cord.
(16) "Jumper harness" means an assembly to be worn by a jumper and to be attached to a bungee cord. It is designed to prevent the jumper from becoming detached from the bungee cord.
(17) Jump assistant. A person who assists the jump operator in preparing a jumper for jumping and who operates the lowering system whereby the jumper is lowered to the landing pad.
(18) "Jump height" means the distance from where the jumper begins to fall to the bottom of the jump zone.
(19) "Jump point" means the position from which the jumper falls or begins to fall.
(20) "Jump space" means the jump zone plus the safety space.
(21) "Jump zone" means the space bounded by the maximum designed movements of the jumper or any part of the jumper.
(22) "Jumper weight" means the weight of the jumper only.
(23) "Karabiner" means a shaped metal or alloy device used to connect sections of the jump rigging, equipment, or safety gear.
(24) "Landing area" means the surface area directly under the jump space, or, where the lifting appliance moves the jumper so that landing occurs away from the jump space, the area covered by the movement of the lifting appliance or part of it, including the area where the jumper lands.
(25) "Landing pad" means the padded area on which the jumper is off-loaded by means of the lowering appliance or equipment after jumping.
(26) "Lateral direction" means the movement of the jumper measured at ninety (90) degrees to the designed jump direction.
(27) "Launch" means a propelled jump.
(28) "Launch point" means the point from which the jumper is launched.
(29) "Loaded length" means the length of the bungee cord when extended to its fullest designed length when jumping.
(30) "Moused" means the process of binding around the point and shank of a hook, pin, or shackle to prevent any load from slipping off.
(31) "Operating manual" means the document that contains the procedures and forms for the operation of the bungee jump facility and equipment on the stated site.
(32) "Operating system" means the system of processing a jumper through the jump methods used on a particular site. This includes registration, preparation, getting to the jump point, methods of attachment, jumping, the rigging and lowering system, and the landing recovery method.
(33) "Platform catapult" means the area on the ground from which the jumper is catapulted to a height from which the jumper falls.
(34) "Platform mobile" means the apparatus attached to a lifting appliance from which the jumper falls or jumps.
(35) "Platform permanent" means the apparatus attached to a fixed structure from which the jumper falls or jumps.
(36) "Preparation area" means the area where the jumper is prepared for jumping that is a separate area on the ground, the support structure, or part of the platform.
(37) "Professional engineer" has the meaning ascribed thereto in IC 25-31-1-2(b).
(38) "Recovery area" means an area adjacent to the landing area where the jumper may recover from the jump before returning to the public area.
(39) "Rigging system" means the rigging system is a combination of components that connects the jumper through the bungee cord to an attachment point on the structure, lifting appliance, or platform. The rigging system includes, but is not limited to, ropes, pulleys, karabiners, shackles, and lowering equipment.
(40) "Safe working load (SWL)" means the maximum rated load which can be safely handled under specified conditions by a machine, equipment, or component of the rigging.
(41) "Safety belt" means a belt designed to fit around the waist of a person and can be attached to either an anchor point or safety lifeline.
(42) "Safety factor" means the ratio obtained by dividing the breaking load of any piece of equipment by its safe working load.
(43) "Safety harness" means an assembly to be worn by an employee of the owner or jumper. It is designed to be attached to a safety line and to prevent the wearer from becoming detached from the safety line.
(44) "Safety line" means a line used to connect the safety harness or belt to an anchorage point or rail in situations where there is a risk of free fall.
(45) "Safety space" means the space extending beyond the jump zone as a safety factor, i.e., the space beyond the maximum designed movements of the jumper.
(46) "Structure" means a permanent or temporary building, bridge, tower, or similar erection that is used or proposed to be used for bungee jumping.
(47) "Thread" means a single strand of material used in a bungee cord.
(48) "Unloaded length" means the length of the bungee cord lying on a horizontal flat surface without load or stress applied.
SECTION 3. Site and operating approval. (a) The owner shall obtain written approval for each site from the division prior to commencing the use of any bungee jump facility.
(b) The approval of the division shall be obtained annually for each location at which a bungee jump facility is to be operated.
SECTION 4.
Equipment design and construction; insurance. (a) Prior to commencing the use of any bungee jump facility, the owner shall submit to the division a professional engineer's report certifying that the design and construction of the structures, equipment, access ways, and operating areas meet the requirements of the 685 IAC 1 and one (1) or more nationally recognized standards developed to apply to bungee jump facilities and are certified by a professional engineer to be suitable for a bungee jumping. The engineer's report shall also contain site plans, safety zones, drawings and specifications of equipment and structures, certification of the safety air bag, certification of the jumper safety harness, certification of the jump worthiness of the bungee cords to be used, and certification that the methods of attachment and location of attachment are the safest available.
(b) Engineering inspections by a professional engineer shall be conducted each and every time a bungee jump facility is substantially rebuilt or substantially modified. An inspector shall conduct an inspection annually and each time a bungee jump facility is relocated.
(c) The owner shall submit an affidavit of compliance that the amusement ride was inspected in person by the affiant and that the amusement ride is in compliance with the requirements of this SECTION and all applicable rules adopted by the board. The affidavit must be executed by a professional engineer no earlier than sixty (60) days before, but not later than, the date of the filing of the application with the division.
(d) Insurance. The owner shall have and maintain liability insurance in an amount of not less than one million dollars per occurrence insuring the owner or lessee against liability for injury to person arising out of the use of a bungee jump facility. The owner shall provide written proof of insurance from the insurance carrier to the division not later than five (5) business days prior to commencing the use of any bungee jump facility in this state and upon request of the division. When a claim in excess of, or a combination of claims exceeding, $100,000 is made, the owner shall close the bungee jump facility until there is a reinstatement of insurance value and shall notify the department.
SECTION 5. Jumping; landing pad. (a) The owner shall allow bungee jumping to be conducted only under the direct control of a jump operator.
(b) The jump operator shall immediately stop all bungee jumping operations when the wind speed exceeds the maximum wind speed as determined by a professional engineer for the safe operation of the bungee jump facility.
(c) Adjustments for the weight of each jumper shall be made by the jump operator's selection of bungee cord.
(d) In a bungee jump facility that utilizes a crane, the jumper shall be secured on the platform by a safety belt and lifeline at all times until the jump point is reached.
(e) In a bungee jump operation which utilizes a tower, the jumper shall be secured by a safety belt, lifeline, or bungee cord before reaching the jump point.
(f) All shackles shall be moused.
(g) In a bungee jump facility that utilizes a crane, at least two (2) of whom must be employees of the owner, one (1) of whom must be a jump operator, shall accompany the jumper in the working platform or cage.
(h) In a bungee jump operation that utilizes a tower, at least two (2) employees of the owner, one (1) of whom must be a jump operator, shall accompany the jumper from the point of preparation at the jump platform to the jump point.
(i) The jumper shall be allowed to recover before being moved from the landing pad.
(j) The position of the jump point in relation to the tower or crane shall be constructed and maintained so as to prevent the jumper from coming into contact with any part of the tower or crane during the jump.
SECTION 6. Safety air bag; height of bungee jump. (a) The owner shall provide a safety air bag for each bungee jump. The safety air bag shall cover the entire surface area of the jump space, including the area necessary for all rebound angles of the jumper. A professional engineer shall certify the height, width, and length of the safety air bag for the height of each bungee jump and the area necessary for all rebound angles. Each bungee jump facility shall be designed and operated in order to prevent a jumper from coming into contact with the safety air bag during the course of an incident-free jump. When a person comes into contact with the safety air bag during a jump, the owner shall close the bungee jump facility, redesign the bungee jump facility to prevent contact with the safety air bag, provide a reinspection of the bungee jump facility by a professional engineer, and request a reinspection by the division prior to reopening the bungee jump facility.
(b) The safety air bag height shall be certified or rated by the air bag manufacturer for the height of the bungee jump.
(c) No bungee jump in this state shall exceed a height of one hundred (100) feet measured from the bottom of the jump point to the surface.
SECTION 7. Platform permanent. (a) The platform-permanent shall be operated with a minimum safe working load (SWL) reflecting a safety factor of not less than five (5), as determined by the maximum load for which the platform is designed and constructed. If the jump equipment is attached to the platform as distinct from the structure, the dynamic load factor shall be added to the platform load factor.
(b) Where the platform is not an integral part of the structure, the attachment devices and the part of the structure to which they are attached shall have a minimum safety factor of at least five (5) over the total design load.
(c) The platform shall have a slip-resistant floor surface.
(d) The platform shall have sufficient working space for a minimum of three (3) people.
(e) The platform shall have anchor points or rails for safety harnesses which are designed and positioned so as not to impede the jump operator's movements.
(f) The platform shall be fitted with a permanent enclosure to contain the jumper during preparation.
(g) The jumpers shall be prepared for jumping in a place separated from the jump point.
(h) There shall be a gate across the jump point equipped with a locking system to prevent accidental opening when there is not a jumper present on the jump point.
(i) The top end of all bungee cords on the platform shall be securely attached to the rigging bar or to the rigging before each jumper is prepared for jumping and before jumping occurs.
(j) There shall be a plate or permanent marking on each platform indicating the maximum capacity of the platform and the rated workload capacity or maximum intended load.
SECTION 8. Lowering system. (a) The owner shall provide a system for lowering the jumper to the landing pad which shall be a mechanically powered system not capable of free fall and operated by the jump operator or the jump master. The owner shall also provide a second person to monitor the lowering of all jumpers who shall be capable of stopping the process if necessary to avoid injuries to the jumper.
(b) The owner shall provide an alternative method for lowering the jumper in the event the main lowering system fails.
SECTION 9. Platform mobile. (a) The platform mobile or cage used for lifting employees or jumpers shall be designed by a professional engineer.
(b) The platform mobile or cage shall have a guardrail system sufficient to enclose all passengers during the hoisting or lowering of employees or jumpers. The platform mobile or cage shall have adequate overhead protection and headroom to guard against injuries to passengers. There shall be a plate or permanent marking on each platform mobile or cage indicating the weight of the platform and the rated workload capacity or maximum intended load.
(c) The platform mobile or cage shall be designed and maintained with an access gate that opens to the inside of the platform and that has a safety lock or restraining device to prevent accidental opening.
(d) The platform mobile or cage shall be free of any rough or exposed edges.
(e) The platform mobile or cage shall be designed and attached to the hoisting cables of the crane or derrick in such a manner so as to ensure the load is evenly balanced during hoisting or lowering.
(f) All attachment assemblies related to the platform mobile or cage shall be designed and maintained to close and lock in such a manner that prevents accidental opening while the platform mobile or cage is attached to the hoisting cable.
(g) The jump rigging shall not be attached directly to the platform mobile.
(h) The jump rigging shall pass through or around the platform in such a way as to eliminate damage to the jump rigging.
(i) The owner shall position the platform mobile at a constant height above the safety air bag for each jump.
(j) Adjustments for the weight of each jumper shall be made by the jump operator's selection of bungee cord.
(k) The platform mobile shall be operated with a minimum safe working load (SWL) reflecting a safety factor of not less than five (5), as determined by the maximum weight for which the platform is designed and constructed.
(l) The platform mobile shall have a slip-resistant floor surface.
(m) The platform mobile shall have sufficient working space for a minimum of three (3) people.
(n) The jumper and all employees shall be completely enclosed on the platform mobile until the platform mobile reaches the jump point.
(o) The jumper shall be secured by a safety belt or lifeline on the platform mobile until the jump point is reached.
(p) The platform mobile shall have anchor points for safety harnesses or safety belts for all persons carried on the platform.
(q) Each jump operator and jump assistant on the platform mobile shall wear a safety harness or safety belt.
(r) All passengers and the jumper shall wear safety belts.
(s) The owner shall provide an alternative method for lowering the jumper from the platform in the event the main lowering system fails.
(t) The platform and support straps shall be designed and operated to provide for maximum stability of the platform.
(u) All shackles shall be moused.
(v) The platform mobile or cage shall be designed and operated for use with a stabilizing bar or cable so that the platform mobile shall be attached in a fixed position to the crane or derrick to prevent swaying or rocking during a jump.
SECTION 10. Wind speed. The maximum wind speed during which a bungee jump facility may safely operate shall be determined by a professional engineer. The maximum wind speed for the safe operation of the bungee jump facility shall be stated in the operating manual. No person shall operate a bungee jump facility when the wind speed exceeds the maximum wind speed stated in the operating manual.
SECTION 11. Cranes or derricks. No person shall operate a bungee jump facility that utilizes a crane or derrick unless the following criteria are expressly met:
(1) The owner must possess a current certificate to operate issued by the division for each crane or derrick used in a bungee jump facility.
(2) The owner shall submit to the division a professional engineer's affidavit certifying the crane or derrick to be suitable for use in a bungee jump facility.
(3) The crane or derrick shall be operated by a person who has a minimum of two (2) years experience in mixed type operating cranes and who holds a certificate of training issued by a crane inspection company recognized by the United States Department of Labor specializing in certification of crane operators and personnel handling. The crane or derrick operator shall be recertified annually.
(4) The crane or derrick shall be operated with a minimum safe working load (SWL) reflecting a safety factor of not less than ten (10).
(5) The owner shall comply with the crane or derrick manufacturer's operating manual or instructions, except as modified by the professional engineer who certifies the crane or derrick as suitable for use in bungee jumping facilities.
(6) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with an attached plate or permanent marking indicating the rated load capacity, recommended operating speed, special hazard warnings, and special operating instructions for operation of the crane or derrick.
(7) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with an operational anti-two (2) block device which shall be capable of eliminating all power to the crane or derrick's hoisting cable. The anti-two (2) block device shall be positioned a minimum of six (6) feet from the end of the crane or derrick boom or jib.
(8) Wire rope used for hoisting or lowering the platform mobile or cage shall be rotation-resistant. Wire rope shall be taken out of service when any of the following conditions exist:
(A) In running ropes, six (6) randomly distributed broken wires in one (1) lay or three (3) broken wires in one (1) strand in one (1) lay.
(B) Wear of one-third (1/3) the original diameter of outside individual wires.
(C) Kinking, crushing, bird caging, or any other evidence of damage resulting in distortion of the rope structure.
(9) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with operational stabilizer bars or cables that stabilize the platform mobile or cage during a bungee jump to ensure a consistent jump space.
(10) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with a swing lock mechanism to limit the rotation of the crane or derrick to the operational limits of the bungee jump.
(11) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with a load moment indicator.
(12) The crane or derrick shall be equipped with an appropriate safety mechanism or device which prevents free fall capability.
(13) The crane or derrick shall be set up and maintained in a level manner on firm footing. All outriggers shall be fully extended.
(14) During the hoisting or lowering of employees or jumpers, the hoisting or lowering speed shall not exceed one hundred (100) feet per minute.
(15) The owner shall provide for detailed daily inspections of the crane or derrick, working platform, and hoisting mechanism and shall maintain detailed written inspection records which indicate the date of inspection, name of the inspector, list of items inspected, deficiencies found during the inspection, actions taken to correct the deficiencies found, and certification that all deficiencies have been corrected prior to further use of the bungee jump facility. The daily inspections shall be conducted by the crane or derrick operator.
(16) The crane or derrick shall be inspected every six (6) months by a person who has a minimum of two (2) years of experience in inspecting mixed type operating cranes and who holds a certificate of registration issued by the United States Department of Labor. The owner shall maintain detailed written inspection records which indicate the date of inspection, name of the inspector, list of items inspected, deficiencies found during the six (6) month inspection, actions taken to correct the deficiencies found, and certification that all deficiencies have been corrected prior to further use of the bungee jump facility.
(17) The owner shall provide training to the crane or derrick operator, jump operator, and ground personnel who assist jumpers in hooking up and unhooking, persons who dismantle or erect the crane, and persons who have any rigging duties. Training conducted must meet the minimum requirements set forth 685 IAC 1-2-4.
(18) The crane operator shall not leave the operator's position during any phase of hoisting or lowering the platform mobile or cage or during jumping.
(19) The owner shall provide that a professional engineer determine in writing the maximum allowable wind velocities during which bungee jumping shall take place at the site and the maximum wind velocity during which the crane or derrick can be operated in a bungee jump facility. This information shall be maintained at the site and made available for review by the division within two (2) hours of a request by any employee of the division. The owner shall provide a method for constant monitoring of wind velocities at the jump site during any bungee jumping.
(20) The jump rigging shall be attached directly to the lifting hook of the crane or derrick.
(21) The jump rigging shall pass through or around the working platform in such a way as to eliminate damage to the jump rigging.
(22) The crane or derrick operator shall at all times maintain direct communication with the person directing the crane or derrick during the lifting and lowering of jumpers.
SECTION 12. Hot air balloons; blimps. No bungee jump facility in this state shall use hot air balloons, blimps, or similar type vessels.
SECTION 13. Bungee cord. (a) The bungee cord shall be designed and tested to perform within prescribed limits of stretch and load as stated herein.
(b) The bungee cord shall be made from natural or synthetic rubber or blends thereof that may be of various dimensions.
(c) The materials used in the construction of the bungee cord shall be such that the stretched length is consistent each time the same loading is applied.
(d) Cord binding. The following requirements apply:
(1) the binding shall hold the cord threads together in their designed positions;
(2) the binding material shall have characteristics or specifications similar to those of the bungee cord material;
(3) the cord bindings shall be intact; and
(4) where bindings break during a day's operation, the cord shall be withdrawn from use until the bindings are replaced.
(e) The following requirements apply to bungee cords:
(1) the cord shall stretch in the jump to at least two and five-tenths (2.5) times its unloaded length in its designed jumper weight range;
(2) the unloaded length of the rigging system shall be less than one-half (½) the designed extended length; and
(3) the operating length of a bungee cord at its maximum designed dynamic load shall not exceed four (4) times its unloaded length.
(f) Testing of a new design of bungee cord shall be as follows:
(1) Each owner desiring to utilize a new design of bungee cord shall submit to a professional engineer for testing one (1) bungee cord that has been constructed using their standard method of manufacture, including the bungee and all attachments, and two (2) three (3) foot lengths of bungee cord wit [sic., with] end attachments to the same specification. Specifications for each bungee cord shall also be submitted to the engineer and shall include:
(A) the type of material used in the manufacture of the cord;
(B) thread specifications, including stress at three hundred percent (300%) elongation, tensile strength, and elongation at breaking point;
(C) dimensions and number of threads in a cross section of the cord;
(D) method of construction;
(E) method of binding;
(F) jumper weight range for size of cord submitted for testing to produce the extension from two and five-tenths (2.5) times to a maximum of four (4) times the unloaded length of the cord; and
(G) operational range of dynamic loadings.
(2) The engineer shall test the bungee cord and certify that the cord meets the cord specifications as submitted. The full length cord shall be subjected to at least three (3) repeat tests for loading versus extension in order to establish consistency of extension within the cord range of loading. The full length cord shall be subject to a loading of five (5) times the maximum dynamic load for a period greater than five (5) minutes and then checked for signs of thread breakage or other deterioration. This will establish a minimum safety factor of five (5).
(3) The engineer shall carry out a cycle frequency test until either of the following occurs:
(A) the dynamic load at three hundred percent (300%) extension or four (4) times unloaded length reduces to less than the maximum dynamic load; or
(B) evidence of more than ten percent (10%) of threads exhibiting wear or five percent (5%) of the threads broken of the total number over the length of cord.
(4) Upon completion of the testing required herein, the engineer shall destroy the full length cord.
(5) For purposes of this SECTION, a new design shall mean:
(A) a change in bungee thread specifications that affects the performance of the bungee threads or cord;
(B) a change to the end attachments; or
(C) a change in the manufacturing methods or equipment.
(6) Bungee cord end attachment. Each end of the bungee cord shall have an end attachment to connect the cord to the rigging and the jumper. The end attachments shall be tested by a professional engineer and be of sufficient size and shape to allow easy attachment to the jumper harness and to the rigging. The end attachment shall have a maximum breaking load of at least four thousand four hundred (4,400) pounds.
(g) The maximum allowable life of the cord shall not exceed one-fifth (1/5) the tested number of extensions or two hundred (200) jumps, whichever is lower.
(h) A cord and its nonmetallic connectors shall be immediately withdrawn from use when any of the following occurs:
(1) when exposure to daylight exceeds two hundred fifty (250) hours, except where a cord cover or sleeve fully protects all of the cord from visible and ultraviolet exposure;
(2) when the bungee cord has been in existence for a period of six (6) months from the date of manufacture;
(3) when the bungee cord material reaches the manufacturer's recommended life span or two hundred (200) days, whichever is less;
(4) when there is evidence of threads exhibiting wear, such as bunched threads, uneven
tension between threads, or thread bands;
(5) when there are broken threads;
(6) as the bungee cord stretches over the course of its jump life, the dynamic load required to extend the bungee to four (4) times its unloaded length will reduce. When this dynamic load reduces to less than the maximum designed dynamic load, the cord shall be discarded;
(7) when the cord comes into contact with solvents, corrosive or abrasive substances;
(8) when any incident occurs that could result immediately or in due course in substantial substandard performance of the bungee cord or its attachments;
(9) when any discolorations are found;
(10) when any other flaws are found; or
(11) when the date of manufacture of the bungee cord or each item of material which is a component part of the bungee cord cannot be documented on the site by reference to the identification tag required by 685 IAC 1-2.1-21(b).
(i) Destruction of bungee cords. A bungee cord withdrawn from use shall be destroyed in the presence of a division inspector. The bungee cord is considered to be destroyed when it is cut into lengths of less than three (3) feet. When a bungee cord is ready for destruction the owner shall request, in writing, a division inspector to witness the destruction.
(j) Daily bungee cord inspection and testing. Before starting and during the day's operations, the jump operator shall perform the following:
(1) A visual inspection of the entire length and circumference of the bungee cord for signs of wear. The inspection shall be repeated at least four (4) times during a full day's operation and recorded in the daily log.
(2) An inspection of the bungee cord if the extended dynamic or static length changes during jumping.
(3) The bungee cord shall be immediately replaced in the event unexpected changes in the cord's extended performance occur.
(k) Bumpers. The owner shall ensure that a bumper is used to cover the end of the bungee cord and all connecting straps and devices where attached to the jumper. The bumper shall be at least six (6) inches in diameter and five (5) feet in length. The bumper shall be fastened in such a manner so as to prevent its slipping up and down the bungee cord.
(l) All bungee cords used at a bungee jump facility shall be designed as to their thickness and length for the height of the jump so as to prevent the looping of the cord around any part of the jumper's body during a jump. The owner shall submit to the division a professional engineer's report certifying the bungee cords to be used, in relation to the height of the jump, will not loop around any part of the jumper's body during a jump.
SECTION 14. Jumper harness. (a) No bungee jump shall be operated unless the owner provides and requires each jumper to use a jumper harness that meets the following requirements:
(1) A jumper harness shall be full body, designed either as a full body harness or a sit harness with shoulder straps, and shall be certified by a professional engineer as being in accordance with the requirements of one (1) or more nationally recognized standards developed for the use of jumper harnesses.
(2) A jumper harness shall be available to fit the range of person sizes accepted for jumping and shall be properly adjusted and fitted on each jumper.
(3) The jumper harness shall be certified by a professional engineer as appropriate for use in bungee jumping and shall have a safety factor of not less than five (5).
(4) A professional engineer shall certify that the method of attachment and location of attachment for the jumper harness is the safest available.
(b) The use of an ankle strapping or ankle harness in bungee jump facilities is hereby prohibited.
SECTION 15. Ropes. All ropes for holding or lowering the jumper shall have a breaking load of at least four thousand nine hundred (4,900) pounds and shall be certified by a professional engineer as being in accordance with the requirements of one (1) or more nationally recognized standards developed for the life safety ropes.
SECTION 16. Hardware. (a) Karabiners shall be of the steel screw gate type with a breaking load of at least four thousand four hundred (4,400) pounds and shall be certified by a professional engineer as being in accordance with requirements of one (1) or more nationally recognized standards developed for the use of life safety ropes, safety belts, harnesses, or lanyards.
(b) Pulleys and shackles shall have a minimum breaking load of at least four thousand four hundred (4,400) pounds and shall be certified by a professional engineer as being in accordance with the requirements of one (1) or more nationally recognized standards developed for the use of life safety ropes, safety belts, harnesses, or lanyards.
(c) All pulleys shall be compatible with the rope size.
(d) Webbing shall be of flat tubular mountaineering webbing or equivalent with a minimum breaking load of at least four thousand four hundred (4,400) pounds.
(e) Tape knots shall be used on all webbing and the ends shall be either stitched down or shall be greater than twice the width of the tape.
SECTION 17. Life safety lines. (a) Lifelines shall be attached to all bungee personnel while on the working platform. Lifelines shall have a minimum breaking load of at least four thousand nine hundred (4,900) pounds.
(b) In a bungee jump facility that utilizes a crane, safety belts shall be worn by the jumper while on the working platform. In a bungee jump facility that utilizes a tower, the jumper shall be attached to a safety belt or bungee cord before reaching the jump point.
(c) A safety harness and lifeline attached to the platform shall be worn by all bungee personnel while on the working platform. The harness shall be either a sit harness or a full body harness.
SECTION 18. Daily inspections. (a) The jump operator shall ensure daily that:
(1) the bungee jump facility has a current certificate to operate issued by the division;
(2) the hoist wire rope has sufficient length for the working heights. The crane or derrick operator shall run out the rope and the rope shall be given a visual inspection;
(3) all shackles and pins are moused;
(4) all outriggers are fully extended;
(5) there are established lines of communication between the jump cage and the crane or derrick operator and between the crane or derrick operator and the ground team;
(6) the hand signals required for visual communication between the person directing the crane or derrick and the crane or derrick operator are known by all parties; and
(7) all protective equipment is inspected.
SECTION 19. Testing and inspection. (a) The owner shall ensure the following testing and inspections are performed:
(1) All jump rigging, harnesses, lowering or braking system, and safety gear shall be regularly inspected and tested as set out in the operating manual and in this rule [document]. The owner shall maintain detailed written inspection records which indicate the date of inspection, name of the inspector, list of items inspected, deficiencies found during the inspection, actions taken to correct the deficiencies found, and certification that all deficiencies have been corrected prior to further use of the bungee jump facility.
(2) All jump rigging, harnesses, lowering or braking systems, and safety gear shall be of a load rating at least equal to the standards stated in this rule.
(3) Prior to commencing each day's operations, the crane or derrick and platform mobile shall be raised and lowered with appropriate test weights to ensure proper operation.
(b) The owner shall replace any rigging or hardware which has become damaged.
(c) The owner shall replace any ropes which have become damaged.
(d) All ropes, webbing, and bindings shall be inspected visually, and by feel, for signs of wear, fraying, or corrosive or damaging substances. Criteria for planned inspection shall be included in the operating manual.
(e) Criteria for the periodic replacement of ropes, webbing, harnesses, and hardware shall be included in the operating manual.
SECTION 20. Replacement of rigging and equipment. (a) At the beginning of each day's operation, replacements of at least the following shall be available on-site:
(1) Bungee cord or cords.
(2) All ropes.
(3) Rigging hardware.
(4) Body, safety harness for jumpers and staff.
(5) Lifelines and connecting devices.
(b) Any item of equipment, rigging, or personal protective equipment found to be substandard shall be replaced immediately.
(c) Jumping shall cease immediately when a substandard item cannot be replaced.
SECTION 21. Identification of items of equipment, rigging, bungee, and safety equipment. (a) Each item shall have its own unique permanent identification number.
(b) An identification tag shall be sewn, woven, or permanently attached to each bungee cord in such manner as will not interfere with the safety or performance of the bungee cord. The tag shall contain the following information:
(1) The manufacture date of the bungee cord.
(2) The manufacture date of each item of material which is a component part of the bungee cord.
(3) The weight class for which the bungee cord is designed as required by this document.
(c) The identification shall not harm the material of the item.
(d) The identification shall be clearly visible to the staff members during daily operations.
(e) The identification of each item shall be recorded in the item's log sheet.
(f) The owner shall provide in the operating manual the color codes for the bungee cords being used at the bungee site which correspond to different weight classes. There shall be a minimum of four (4) weight classes or progressions at each bungee site.
SECTION 22. Landing area, recovery area, and jump space. The owner shall comply with the following as to the landing area, recovery area, and jump space:
(1) These areas shall be free of spectators at all times.
(2) These areas shall be free of any equipment or staff when a jumper is being prepared on the jump point and until the bungee cord is at its static extended state.
(3) The off-loading landing pad and air bag shall be positioned before jumper preparation commences on the platform.
(4) The landing pad shall be a clean, smooth, padded surface.
(5) The jumper shall be allowed to recover before being moved from the landing pad.
(6) The owner shall provide a recovery area for the jumper to sit and recover adjacent to the landing area.
SECTION 23. Fences. (a) The owner shall maintain a fence designed and constructed to restrict people, animals, and objects from entering the crane or tower area, the preparation area and the surface area of the jump space, and all areas specified by the engineer who certifies the bungee operation.
(b) The owner shall ensure that all areas in which persons may be endangered shall be fenced, barricaded, or otherwise effectively guarded against contact.
(c) The owner shall comply with all state and local laws with regards to fences or barricades.
(d) Prior to commencing bungee jump operations, the owner shall submit to the department a professional engineer's report certifying that the design and construction of the fences or barricades meet the requirements of the rules of the fire prevention and building safety commission and are certified by the engineer to be suitable for a bungee jump facility operation.
SECTION 24. Storage. The owner shall provide storage to protect equipment from physical, chemical, and ultraviolet ray damage. The storage shall be provided for current, replacement, and emergency equipment organized for easy and orderly access and secured against unauthorized entry.
SECTION 25. Communication. The owner shall provide and maintain at each bungee site at a minimum the following:
(1) A public address system.
(2) A radio communication link or closed telephone circuit in the following situations:
(A) On crane sites, a hookup between the crane operator and the platform.
(B) On permanent platform sites, a hookup between the platform and the landing and recovery areas.
(C) Bungee jump personnel shall be easily identified by other staff and the public. A uniform or similar clothing shall be worn by bungee staff.
(D) Instructions to jumpers and the public shall be put in positive terms to avoid misinterpretation and mistakes.
SECTION 26. Emergency service. The owner shall provide and maintain a telephone communication link to 911 or similar emergency service within two hundred (200) feet of the bungee operation.
SECTION 27. Safety and loss control management. The owner shall provide for and maintain the following:
(1) At least one (1) jump master shall be designated safety, health, and loss control coordinator and shall be certified in first aid by the American Red Cross or an equivalent certification authority. The first aid certification shall include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
(2) A comprehensive emergency plan shall be developed, practiced, maintained, and posted at each bungee jump facility.
(3) The jump master shall inspect and review daily the site, equipment, and procedures as outlined in the emergency plan.
(4) The reporting and investigation of injuries, damages, and near-miss events shall be analyzed and reviewed by management on a regular basis. The owner shall make changes to procedures, equipment, rigging, or structures as needed to reduce the likelihood of any incidents re-occurring [sic., recurring].
(5) The emergency plan shall be included in the operating manual.
(6) Training shall be provided to all bungee staff relative to emergency procedures. A record of training shall be kept.
SECTION 28. Staff and duties. (a)The owner shall maintain at least the following staff at each bungee jump facility:
(1) Jump master. To be qualified as a jump master, a person shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age and shall have had a minimum of two hundred fifty (250) hours and one thousand two hundred fifty (1,250) jumps of incident-free experience as a jump operator under the supervision of a qualified jump master at a bungee jump facility. A jump master shall be responsible for the following:
(A) At least one (1) jump master at each bungee jump facility shall be designated as having complete control over the operation and accountable for the operation and control of the bungee jump facility. Such master shall have a thorough knowledge of the bungee jump facility, its equipment, operating manual and procedures, and staff.
(B) He or she shall select the bungee cord and adjust the rigging appropriately for each jumper.
(C) He or she shall take the jumper through the final stages to the jump take-off. The jump master shall be present at the jump point during each jump.
(D) For crane operations, at least two (2) staff members, one (1) of whom must be a jump master, shall escort the jumper from the preparation area to the jump point. However, when all connections are made while on the ground and checked by two (2) staff members, one (1) of whom is a jump master, only one (1) staff member must escort the jumper to the jump point.
(E) He or she shall be responsible for the training of other bungee staff. All training shall be conducted by or under the direct supervision of a jump master.
(F) The jump master shall ensure that the number of jumps being conducted at a site does not prohibit the bungee staff from carrying out all procedures and duties for each job as set out in the manual.
(G) The jump master shall directly supervise all staff who are in training.
(2) Jump operator. The owner or jump master shall designate a jump operator at each bungee jump facility with at least the following duties:
(A) Assisting the jump master to prepare the jumper.
(B) Attaching the jumper to harness.
(C) Assisting in attaching the jumper to rigging.
(D) Carrying out check procedures.
(E) Operating the lowering system.
(F) In crane operations, the jump operator may assist in landing or recovery procedures.
(G) Assisting in controlling the public.
(3) Landing or recovery operator. The owner or jump master shall designate a landing or recovery operator at each landing area with at least the following duties:
(A) Assisting the jumper to the landing pad.
(B) Assisting the jumper to the recovery area.
(C) Overseeing the recovery of jumpers.
(D) Assisting in controlling the public.
(4) Registration clerk. The owner or jump master shall designate a registration clerk at each bungee site with at least the following duties:
(A) Registering the jumper.
(B) Providing all notices and warnings to potential jumper as required under and this document.
(C) Weighing and marking of weight on the jumper.
(D) Controlling movement of jumpers to jump platform.
(E) Assisting in controlling the public.
(F) Handling the payment process.
(b) The owner shall provide and maintain an operating team for each bungee jump facility operation. Each operating team shall have a minimum of four (4) staff members, one (1) of whom must be a jump master.
SECTION 29. Injury, damage, and incident events. (a) If an accident involving a bungee jump results in death or serious injury, the owner shall immediately report the accident to the division and close the bungee jump facility until authorization to reopen the bungee jump facility is received from the division.
(b) All accidents relating to a bungee jump operation shall be reported in writing to the division within twenty-four (24) hours of the accident.
(c) Owners shall record all injuries, damage, or near-miss events in a daily log.
SECTION 30. Work periods. It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that staff shall take regular breaks to ensure that fatigue does not downgrade their ability to operate an incident-free operation. If continuous operation is planned, then backup staff shall be available to allow adequate breaks to take place.
SECTION 31. Jumper restrictions. The owner shall comply with the following jumper restrictions:
(1) The minimum age for jumping shall be twelve (12) years. The owner shall secure the consent of a parent or guardian for any jumper who is under the age of eighteen (18). The parent or guardian shall be at least eighteen (18) years old and shall sign an authorization stating he or she is the jumper's parent or guardian and is consenting to the bungee jumping. In addition, the parent or guardian shall be present at the bungee jump facility during the bungee jumping. The authorization shall be executed at the bungee jump facility in the presence of bungee jump facility staff. The authorization shall be permanently retained by the owner with the daily log.
(2) The owner shall disclose to each jumper all medical conditions which may be adversely affected by jumping. The owner shall disclose at a minimum the following medical conditions:
(A) Pregnancy.
(B) High blood pressure.
(C) Heart conditions.
(D) Neurological disorders.
(E) Epilepsy.
(3) Any jumper who, in the opinion of the bungee staff, represents a danger to him or herself or others shall not be allowed onto the platform or to jump.
(4) Jumpers in an intoxicated state shall not be allowed to jump.
SECTION 32. Signs. (a)The owner shall provide for the following signs at each bungee jump facility location:
(1) A sign shall be erected reflecting the following information:
(A) a warning that bungee jumping may be a dangerous activity and may result in serious injury or death to the jumper;
(B) a warning that injuries and death have occurred relating to bungee jumping activities;
(C) a statement in bold capital letters that the department does not endorse this activity and does not guarantee or warrant the safety of bungee jumping; and
(D) the medical, weight, and age restrictions for jumpers.
(b) The owner shall maintain and position signs with the information required in (a) above [subsection (a)] at the bungee jump entrance and at the preparation area.
(c) Separate signs shall be erected which identify the color codes of the bungee cords for the corresponding weight classes, in accordance with the color code set forth in the operating manual. The owner shall maintain and position a sign reflecting this information at each weighing area.
(d) All signs required under this SECTION shall be in bold type and conspicuous lettering of sufficient dimensions to accommodate the language required herein except that the word "WARNING" shall be in lettering at least two (2) inches in height.
SECTION 33. Operating manual and documentation. (a) The owner shall provide and maintain an operating manual at each bungee jump facility in accordance with the following requirements:
(1) For each bungee jump facility site, there shall be an operating manual which describes the system of operation to be used and which addresses, but is not limited to, the following elements:
(A) A site plan showing a plan view of the site with all components in place including fencing, site furniture and equipment, the jump zone, safety space, jump area, and jump direction defined.
(B) A site plan showing a profile of the site defining the jump platform and its supporting structure, the jump area, the jump zone, and the safety space.
(C) A complete description of all components in the rigging system which shall include manufacturer's specification or a laboratory test certificate of each component.
(D) A complete description of all bungee staff, jumper, and passenger safety equipment with instructions for proper usage.
(E) A complete description of all rescue equipment.
(F) A complete job description of all personnel employed on the site with the minimum qualifications of each person and complete detail of work periods required.
(G) A complete description of emergency procedures to be taken in all possible scenarios which may occur.
(H) A complete description of standard operating procedures of every person employed in the processing of the bungee jumper.
(I) A complete description of the reporting to authorities of incidents resulting in injury or death.
(J) A complete description of the reporting procedure for any incidents which do not result in injury but which were not in accordance with normal operational procedures.
(K) A complete description of equipment inspection procedures and the recording of those inspections.
(L) A complete description of the method of recording verified qualifications of jump masters employed on the site.
(M) A complete description of the method of recording verified qualifications of jump masters employed on the site.
(N) A complete description of staff selection procedures.
(O) A complete description of the criteria for the periodic replacement of rigging, hardware, bungee cords, harnesses, and lifelines.
(b) The owner and each member of the operating staff shall have a thorough knowledge of the operating manual.
(c) Noncompliance with any of the criteria or procedures contained in the operating manual is cause for the closure of any affected bungee jump facility.
(d) A copy of the operating manual shall be maintained at all times on the bungee jump facility site during operating hours.
SECTION 34. Daily operating procedures. (a) The owner shall provide and maintain a written check list for the daily operating procedures which shall include at least the following:
(1) Setting up the site equipment and public amenities.
(2) Inspecting and testing of all equipment before beginning operations.
(3) Inspecting and testing of protective equipment including gloves, harnesses and lifelines.
(4) Inspecting and testing the communication system for proper operation.
(5) Inspecting and testing of the jump equipment and rigging.
(6) Review of the jump procedures with all bungee staff.
(7) Review of all emergency procedures with all bungee staff.
(8) Conducting test jumps with appropriate weights on all bungee cords to be used that day.
(9) Designating the jump master who is in charge of the entire operation that day.
(b) The procedures outlined in (a) above [subsection (a)] shall be performed each day prior to beginning bungee jumping operations.
(c) Failure to complete each daily operating procedure outlined herein shall constitute cause for the closure of any affected bungee jump facility.
SECTION 35. Jump procedures. (a) The owner shall provide and maintain written jump procedures which shall include at least the following procedures:
(1) Exclusion of all unauthorized persons from the operating areas.
(2) Registration of jumpers to include:
(A) Name.
(B) Age.
(C) Two (2) separate weighings on two (2) separate scales by two (2) different staff members are conducted on each jumper.
(D) Jumper briefing.
(E) Removal of loose objects from the jumper.
(F) Preparation of the jumper which shall include:
(i) Harness or binding attachment.
(ii) Instructions to the jumper.
(iii) Selection and adjustment of the bungee cord.
(iv) Connection of the jumper to the rigging.
(v) Recheck of all connections and harness attachments.
(vi) Final inspection by jump master.
(vii) Final instructions to the jumper.
(viii) Countdown to jump.
(ix) Observation of jump.
(G) Landing and recovery of jumper.
(H) Off-loading of jumper.
(I) Return of jumper to the public area.
(J) Retrieval of the bungee to the platform.
(b) There shall be a written prejump checklist for each jumper for the procedures contained in (a) above [subsection (a)]. The prejump checklist shall contain the jumper's name and the jump master shall sign and date the checklist certifying all procedures were performed. The prejump checklist shall be permanently maintained as part of the daily log.
(c) The procedures outlined herein shall be performed for each bungee jump.
(d) Failure to complete each procedure outlined herein shall constitute cause for the closure of any affected bungee jump facility.
SECTION 36. Close down procedures. (a) The owner shall provide and maintain a written checklist for the close down procedures which shall include at least the following:
(1) Equipment cleaning and inspection.
(2) Completion of written records as required under Chapter 616, F.S., and this rule [document].
(3) The necessary daily maintenance of equipment, structures, and facilities.
(4) The storage of equipment.
(5) The disposal of rubbish.
(6) Security checks and lockup.
(7) Debriefing of staff on critical incidents and events occurring that day; equipment, rigging, and bungee changes required before the next day's operations start; and maintenance work not completed but required before the next day's operations.
(b) The procedures outlined herein shall be performed for each bungee jump.
(c) Failure to complete each procedure outlined herein shall constitute cause for the closure of any affected bungee jump facility.
SECTION 37. Logging of daily activities. (a) The owner shall maintain a permanent log of the following daily activities for each bungee site:
(1) Confirmation that daily operating procedures were preformed and compilation of the corresponding checklist.
(2) Compilation of the checklists on jump procedures.
(3) Confirmation that the close down procedures were performed and compilation of the corresponding checklist.
(4) The number of jumps made on each bungee cord. This shall be done by referencing the permanent identification number of each cord used.
(5) Compilation of the information required in paragraphs (15)(g) and (h) of this rule. The log shall contain notation as to whether each bungee cord should or should not be withdrawn from use because of each factor listed in paragraphs (15)(g) and (h).
(b) The daily log shall be signed by the jump master who is in charge of the daily operation.
(c) The owner shall maintain a separate bungee cord log which shall contain for each bungee cord in the possession of the owner the following information:
(1) The expiration date of the life of the cord or its materials, whichever is shorter.
(2) Lot number and date of manufacture of all materials which are a component of the bungee cord.
(3) Date of manufacture of the bungee cord.
(d) The owner shall also retain for the useful life of each cord and for a period of one (1) year thereafter all invoices, bills of sale, checks for payment, and other documents which indicate the purchase, sale, testing, and manufacturing of any bungee cord or any component materials used to manufacture a bungee cord.
(e) Owners shall obtain from the manufacturer of any materials to be used for the manufacture of bungee cords the lot number and date of manufacture of the materials in writing. Such documentation shall be maintained by the owner for the useful life of each cord and for a period of one (1) year thereafter.
(f) Failure to comply with this SECTION shall constitute cause for the closure of any affected bungee jump facility.
SECTION 38. Emergency procedures. (a) The owner shall provide and maintain emergency procedures for each bungee jump facility site that meet at least the following:
(1) Each site shall have an emergency plan.
(2) First aid kit. A medium first aid kit, stretcher, backboard, and blankets shall be held on site.
(3) First aid certificate jump master. All jump masters shall have current first aid certificates and shall complete an annual refresher course.
(b) Rescue courses. The operating manual shall specify the rescue training and qualifications required for all staff on the site.
(c) Lighting. Adequate lighting shall be provided at all jump sites that operate after sunset. The lighting system shall illuminate the jump point, the jump space, and the landing area. There shall be an emergency lighting system having its own power source.
SECTION 39.
Noncompliance; promotional materials. (a) Any bungee jump operation that is not in compliance with this document or 685 IAC is subject to closure by the department. In the event a bungee jump operation is closed by the department, the bungee jump shall remain closed until written authorization to reopen is issued by the department.
(b) The owner shall not use the name of, or reference to, the department in any advertisements, brochures, commercials, TV or radio show, newspaper, or in any other public manner by the owner for the purpose of promoting a bungee jump operation.
SECTION 40. Engineer certification. Prior to operating a bungee jump facility in this state, the owner shall provide to the department an affidavit or affidavits executed by a professional engineer or professional engineers containing the following information:
(1) The engineer certifies the crane or structure for use in bungee jump operations.
(2) The engineer certifies all safety equipment, including harnesses, connecting straps, safety lines, attachments, karabiners, etc., for use in bungee jump operations.
(3) The engineer certifies that the bungee cords to be used in the bungee jump operation, as well as the manufacturing process for the bungee cords, including quality control methods, have been personally examined and reviewed and that the engineer found all types of bungee cords and the manufacturing process to conform in all applicable respects to nationally recognized standards. The engineer shall further certify that the bungee cords tested and certified pursuant to this SECTION were manufactured by the same manufacturing process as those cords which are to be used in the bungee jump facility operations.
(4) The engineer certifies the safety air bag for use in bungee jump facility operations.
(5) The engineer certifies the rigging system for use in bungee jump facility operations.
(6) The engineer certifies the jump space, jump zone, and jump height are appropriate for the bungee jump facility operation.
(7) The engineer has reviewed the daily operating procedures, jump procedures, and close down procedures and certifies them as appropriate for the bungee jump facility operation.
(8) The engineer certifies the bungee jump facility operation has been inspected and is in compliance with this document.
(9) The engineer certifies the bungee jump facility operation has undergone some form of nondestructive testing for metal fatigue recognized by the American Society for Non-Destructive Testing
SECTION 41. Prohibited activities. The practice of bungee catapulting or reverse bungee jumping is hereby prohibited in this state.
Filed with Publisher: July 26, 2006, 1:07 p.m.
Posted: 08/02/2006 by Legislative Services Agency
DIN: 20060802-IR-685060269ERA
Composed: May 06,2024 10:24:54AM EDT
A
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