Item: History of Professional Ski Patrolling in the Western United States
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Title: History of Professional Ski Patrolling in the Western United States
Proceedings: Proceedings of the 1994 International Snow Science Workshop, Snowbird, Utah, USA
Authors:
- Scott Toepfer
Date: 1994
Abstract: As ski areas became more and more popular during the 1940's and 1950's, ski area management became increasingly aware of the need for full-time, well-trained people to tend with the daily needs of ski area operations. Avalanche control, lift evacuation, first-aid and injury evacuation were needed on a daily basis, not just on a volunteer, weekends and holidays basis. Hence the advent of Professional Ski Patrolling. Professional Ski Patrolling is an officially recognized occupation in the eyes of the Federal Government. This will make all of the pros in the united States breath a sigh of relief I'm sure. The Federal Government in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) 1991 defines the duties of Ski Patroller, occupation number 379.664-010 (Amusement and Recreation), as: "Patrols ski trails and slope areas to provide assistance and protection to skiers and report condition of trails, ski lifts, and snow cover on slopes: Patrols assigned areas, using skis or snowshoes. Rescues injured skiers and renders first aid or transfers them to waiting ambulance, using toboggan. Notifies medical personnel in case of serious injury where moving skier might prove dangerous. Ensures that no skiers remain on slopes or trails at end of day or during inclement weather. Inspects ski lifts, such as rope tows, T-bars, J-bars, and chair lifts to report safety hazards and evidence of damage or wear. May pack snow on slopes. May give ski instruction. May participate in skiing demonstrations for entertainment of resort guests. May assist demolition crew to blast for avalanche control." This definition also lists strength requirements for ski patrollers: exerts 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently.
Language of Article: English
Presenters: Unknown
Keywords: ski trails, ski areas, ski patrolling, ski management
Page Number(s): 423-430
Subjects: ski patrolling ski management avalanche control
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Digital Abstract Not Available
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