All rides undergo several layers of inspection before anyone is allowed to climb aboard.
Clark County Fairgrounds Executive Director Dean Blair said this year’s rides started rolling into the fairgrounds ahead of schedule.
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“Because they were able to come a little bit early, that helps tremendously,” he said. “They’re not under the gun. They get to take more time setting things up.”
There are eight full-time inspectors with ODA who check out rides of all types across the state.
ODA Deputy Communication Director Brett Gates said those inspectors’ training is critical to the strength of the program.
He said new inspectors must undergo a minimum of one year of training before they’re able to go out on their own. In addition, even veteran inspectors go through continuous training and attend yearly safety seminars.
Gates said when a ride is inspected by ODA, it is thoroughly looked at during several different phases: assembly, not in motion and in motion.
Blair said inspections have become more meticulous since the fatal Fire Ball ride accident at the Ohio State Fair.
That accident killed 18-year-old Tyler Jarrell when the ride malfunctioned in 2017. Jennifer Lambert, 19, suffered a brain injury in the accident and died in 2018.
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“The only good that comes out of that is that everybody’s awareness is even more,” Blair said. “(ODA is) talking about hiring more inspectors. “They’re talking about a more enhanced program than they already have.”
Blair said ODA inspectors will be at the fairgrounds Thursday and will meet with him after their inspections to review any problems found on the rides.
But Blair also said Durant employees make several inspections of their own in addition to those performed by ODA inspectors.
He said every ride is checked each morning — including during the week of the fair — and throughout the day.
“Even though something can break. (Durant) — I feel — goes the step beyond and really tries to do all they can so you and I can feel real good about letting a family member ride,” Blair said.
The Clark County Fair runs from July 19 to July 26. Gates open at 8 a.m. Ride admission is not included with admission to the fair.
8 — full-time ride inspectors employed by the Ohio Department of Agriculture
28 — rides at the 2019 Clark County Fair
4,000 — rides inspected across the state, including theme parks, portable rides, aquatic and inflatable rides
HOW TO GO:
The Clark County Fair opens on July 19 and runs until July 26. Gates open each day at 8 a.m.
Admission is $6 per person, which includes parking and admission into all concerts. Admission is free for children five and younger.
Rides require tickets or a wristband purchased separately.
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