Press Releases

Statement of IAAPA President Clark Robinson Re. Two Scientific Studies Released By Six Flags

Clark Robinson , President of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions ( IAAPA), today issued the following statement regarding two scientific studies commissioned by Six Flags, Inc. (http://www.sixflags.com/pressroom.html), which “confirm that rides are based on biomedical and biomechanical science, are extraordinarily safe, and present no health risk to the public.”

ALEXANDRIA, VA. USA (Jan. 21, 2003) – On behalf of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions ( IAAPA), I want to extend my thanks to this very distinguished panel of experts for the excellent and comprehensive work they have produced in their objective, scientific analysis of several important issues related to the amusement park industry. IAAPA has long believed that sound, scientific data would refute the inaccurate statements that have been made about the industry and roller coasters in particular.

This research released today by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and Exponent, along with the recent scientific study by Drs. Douglas Smith and David Meaney of the University of Pennsylvania, have brought to light scientific proof that our rides are safe. In fact, the University of Pennsylvania study indicates that rotational accelerations experienced during rides pose no risk of brain injury to the general populace.

On the heels of these scientific studies underscoring ride safety, I am pleased to note the latest refinement in the industry. Beginning last year, IAAPA initiated a voluntary incident reporting process for our U.S. parks. Incidents that occur on rides are reported to and collected by an independent auditor, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the data. We took these steps in developing a national program and collecting data because we believe that the industry is in the best position to accomplish this task.

I would further point out that the parks have a long history of reporting incidents to state and local bodies throughout the country, as well as working with government officials and inspectors in a partnership to ensure the safety of our guests.

In addition, we will continue to address these and other issues through the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the independent professional standards-writing body that has worked with the industry and other interested parties for 25 years in developing comprehensive ride safety standards. These standards cover design and manufacture, testing, operation, maintenance, and inspection. They undergo frequent review and revision to keep up with the latest technologies, and draw on the expertise of related fields such as biodynamics. Consequently, ASTM is the best, most appropriate, and perhaps only forum that is equipped to establish credible and official industry standards.

IAAPA represents over 1,000 facilities in more than 85 countries around the world, including 450 parks in the United States. The cornerstone of our industry is the safety of our guests. The two studies released today scientifically demonstrate the success of that long-standing commitment to safety.

This unwavering commitment has allowed the amusement park and themed attractions industry to thrive for more than a century, and will ensure that it continues to provide safe, fun, family entertainment for many years to come.

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IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide. The organization represents over 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries. IAAPA strives to help members improve their efficiency, marketing, safety, and profitability while maintaining the highest possible professional standards in the industry. www.iaapa.org