News release, Sept. 15, 1999B

Georgia Department of Labor - Press Release
Georgia Department of
Labor
Suite 642 148 International Boulevard N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1751 (404)656-3032

September 15, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STATE LABOR DEPARTMENT TO INSPECT CARNIVAL RIDES FOR GWINNETT

COUNTY FAIR TOMORROW

ATLANTA -- State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond said the Georgia Department of Labor will conduct detailed safety inspections tomorrow of the rides that will be used in the Gwinnett County Fair next week.

Under Georgia law, the labor department has the responsibility to inspect the mechanical and electrical components of all carnival rides. The inspections of the 19 rides will be held tomorrow at the carnival site at 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway in Lawrenceville. The carnival will be held tomorrow through Sunday, Sept. 26. Amusements of America is the operator of the rides.

"We want to do everything we can to make sure Gwinnett County area residents will have a safe and enjoyable visit to the carnival," Thurmond said, "but carnival safety is a joint responsibility that also involves the carnival operators, as well as the riding public. While the labor department inspects the rides, the operators are responsible for maintaining and operating the rides properly.

The public should follow the prescribed safety rules, and parents should accompany small children."

There are certain proven safety practices that all riders should follow in order to have a safe outing at the carnival. The safety rules recommended by the Georgia Department of Labor are as follows:

1. Remain seated in the ride at all times.

2. Use the safety devices, such as seat belts, provided.

file:///E|/pressrel%20from%201-98%20to%20present/a00133.htm (1 of 2)9/22/2004 12:48:17 PM

Georgia Department of Labor - Press Release

3. Follow all safety instructions.

4. Always supervise small children.

5. Walk, don't run on ride platforms.

6. Remain behind protective fencing.

7. Secure all loose articles before riding.

8. Keep your hands and feet inside the seat.

9. Never force your child or friends to ride.

10. Wear the proper clothing, such as no open shoes.

NEWS MEDIA NEEDING MORE INFORMATION MAY CALL (404) 656-3032.

E-mail: communications@dol.state.ga.us.

FY-00-133

An Equal Opportunity Employer

file:///E|/pressrel%20from%201-98%20to%20present/a00133.htm (2 of 2)9/22/2004 12:48:17 PM