NEW YORK (WRGB) — As summer amusement park and fair season kicks off, the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) is emphasizing its commitment to the safety of fairgoers and workers across the state. The department is implementing proactive measures, including ride inspections, safety tips, and guidance for extreme heat.

Nothing says summer fun like a day at the New York State Fair or one of our state’s thrilling amusement parks and county fairs,” said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “Fairgoers can breathe easy knowing that our inspectors work tirelessly to make sure every piece of ride equipment is functioning properly before anyone steps aboard. Our Department is committed to ensuring that every ride is safe and that outdoor workers are protected from the summer heat.

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NYSDOL enforces amusement ride safety throughout New York State, excluding New York City. Stationary amusement park rides are inspected at least once a year, while rides at traveling fairs or carnivals are inspected each time they are set up in a new location. A permit from NYSDOL is required for any ride to operate.

Since 2024, the department has been using drones to assist inspectors by providing views of ride areas inaccessible from the ground and offering high-quality overhead perspectives to ensure proper placement on event grounds.

The inspection process involves three steps: examining individual ride components and documentation, inspecting assembled rides, and observing ride operation. Rides that pass inspection receive a visible DOL inspection tag at the entry point. If the tag is not visible, patrons are encouraged to ask the operator to show it.

For those who observe unsafe conditions, reports can be submitted to ride.safety@labor.ny.gov.

More information on NYSDOL’s safety efforts can be found on the Ride Safe NY page.