Adventure Park Safety: The Ultimate Daily Inspection Checklist

During peak season, the safety of adventure parks relies on strict adherence to daily inspection protocols. A visual check before opening, systematic PPE inspections, enhanced monitoring of critical zones, and proper staff training are essential to protect participants and comply with regulations.

Implementing practical solutions such as digital tools, task delegation, and streamlined management systems helps reduce operational burden while improving efficiency. These measures are recommended by official authorities and help ensure both safety and business continuity.

Summary

• Key Takeaways
• Why Strengthen Inspections During Peak Season?
• Morning Course Inspections: Your First Line of Defense
• PPE Checks Between Each Use
• Critical Point Monitoring
• Staff Training and Certification
• Tips to Simplify and Improve Safety Inspections

Key Takeaways

• Daily visual inspections before opening: Required by French SDJES guidelines and EN 15567-2 standard.
• Systematic PPE checks before every use: A legal obligation to ensure participant safety.
• Enhanced surveillance of high-risk areas: zip lines, entry/exit platforms, braking systems.
• Qualified staff: CQP PAH certificate recommended or required; certified instructors for supervised courses.
• Traceability: Safety logs, incident reports, and maintenance records must be documented and archived.
• Operational efficiency: Digital checklists, task distribution, critical zone prioritization, end-of-day briefings.

Why Strengthen Inspections During Peak Season?

Visitor numbers surge during summer, leading to increased wear on equipment and infrastructure. Data from the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance (INVS) shows that 57% of high ropes injuries occur in July and August, and 75% between June and September. Extra vigilance is therefore essential.

Morning Course Inspections: Your First Line of Defense

According to SDJES guidelines, a visual inspection must be performed every morning before opening. This includes checking for cleanliness, object clearance, sharp edges, missing parts, and overall structural condition.

Course and Structure Inspection

Inspect platforms, anchor points, and continuous lifelines. Anchors must be stable and corrosion-free. Platforms must be secure and debris-free.

Continuous Lifeline Checks

Visually inspect cables for fraying, wear, or corrosion. Check zip lines and progression devices like firefighter poles for integrity and function.

Anchoring and Platform Safety

Ensure all anchoring points and platforms are solid and adapted to participant loads. Check collective protection (nets, mats, railings) is intact and well-placed.

PPE Checks Between Each Use

Every piece of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) must be visually inspected before each use. This includes harnesses, connectors, and CE markings. Annual professional inspections are mandatory, especially after any exceptional event.

Harness Inspections

Check for cuts, burns, or abnormal wear. Ensure all CE markings are visible and legible.

Connector and Carabiner Checks

Inspect for rust, deformation, or faulty locking mechanisms. Automatic connectors should be tested manually.

Zip Pulley Function Tests

Test pulleys for smooth rotation and proper attachment to the harness system.

Critical Point Monitoring

Some parts of the course endure more stress, especially entry and exit platforms and zip lines. These must be inspected more frequently during high traffic periods.

High-Wear Areas

Check the first and last elements of each course regularly for signs of fatigue or damage.

Zip Lines and Braking Systems

Inspect all zip lines and brakes daily to ensure full safety and reliability.

Staff Training and Certification

All operators must be trained and qualified. For autonomous courses, the CQP PAH certificate is highly recommended, if not mandatory. For supervised activities, instructors must hold relevant sports qualifications (climbing, mountaineering, etc.).

Onboarding and Mentorship

New staff should follow a structured onboarding process including safety training and shadowing by experienced team members.

Inspection and Incident Logs

Maintain detailed records of daily checks, incidents, and repairs. Logs ensure accountability and compliance.

Tips to Simplify and Improve Safety Inspections

• Digital checklists: Use apps or tablets to streamline checks and auto-generate reports.
• Task delegation: Assign different areas to different operators to save time and avoid overload.
• Risk-based prioritization: Start with the most critical/high-traffic zones (e.g., zip lines, start/end platforms).
• Morning routine integration: Use the same step-by-step order every day to avoid oversight.
• Documentation & photos: Take photos of anomalies to share with maintenance teams and for archiving.
• PPE numbering: Label equipment to monitor usage history and inspection schedules.
• Maintenance software (CMMS): Use a Computerized Maintenance Management System to plan tasks and track data.
• Daily debriefs & team input: End each day with a short meeting to gather feedback and refine procedures.

Need help digitizing your inspections or training your staff?
Contact us today for personalized support and expert advice tailored to your adventure park operations.