Section 270. Management and personnel responsibilities

A. All bungee jumping activities shall have a minimum of one site manager, one jump master and one ground operator to be present at all times during operation of the bungee jump.

B. The site manager is responsible for the following:

1. Controlling the entire operation;

2. Site equipment and procedures;

3. Determining whether it is safe to jump;

4. Selection of, and any training of personnel;

5. Emergency procedures; and

6. Maintaining records.

C. A jump master shall be located at each jump platform and shall have thorough knowledge of, and is responsible for, the following:

1. Overseeing the processing of jumpers, selection of the bungee cord, adjustment of the rigging, final check of jumper's preparation, and countdown for and observation of the jump;

2. Verifying that the cord is attached to the structure at all times when the jumper is in the jump area;

3. Rescue and emergency procedures; and

4. Ensuring that the number of jumps undertaken in a given period of time will allow all personnel to safely carry out their responsibilities.

D. The ground operator shall have knowledge of all equipment used and of jump procedures and shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Ensuring that the jumper is qualified to jump;

2. Assisting the jump master to prepare the jumper and attach the jumper to the harness and rigging;

3. Assisting the jumper to the recovery area; and

4. Maintaining a clear view of the landing area.

E. Each site shall have an operating manual that shall include the following:

1. Site plan, job descriptions (including procedures), inspections and maintenance requirements of equipment including rigging, hardware, bungee cords, harnesses, and lifelines; and

2. An emergency rescue plan.

F. The daily operating procedures shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM F770.

G. The qualification and preparation of jumpers shall include obtaining any pertinent medical information, jumper weight and a briefing of jumping procedures and safety instructions.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 24, Issue 14, eff. May 1, 2008.

Statutory Authority

§ 36-98.3 of the Code of Virginia.