Item: An Analysis of Avalanche Accident Causes: Ski Area Professional Patrol
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Title: An Analysis of Avalanche Accident Causes: Ski Area Professional Patrol
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2014 Proceedings, Banff, Canada
Authors:
- Jerry Johnson [ Montana State University, Health Sciences, MT USA ]
- Alex Bergeron [ Big Sky Professional Ski Patrol, Big Sky, MT, USA ] [ Montana State University, Health Sciences, MT USA ]
- Jordy Hendrikx [ Montana State University, Political Science, MT USA ]
Date: 2014-09-29
Abstract: Professional ski patrollers working in areas of high avalanche hazard terrain are responsible for ensuring safe conditions for the recreationally skiing customers within the boundaries of their particular ski areas. In order to do so, mitigation teams employ a variety of techniques such as deployment of explosives of various types and ski cutting on slopes with potential avalanche hazard. These mitigation techniques expose patrollers to the risk of injury and/or death. Analysis of survey data from 151 patrollers reveals that 80% stated that they have "had an avalanche related accident or near miss on the job". The primary causes and just as importantly non causes are reported, qualitative statements illustrating accident causes are explored and, suggestions are presented aimed at accident prevention.
Object ID: ISSW14_paper_P3.24.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s):
Keywords:
Page Number(s): 1014-1016
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