Snow Valley Mountain Resort Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan
Training Objective: to provide Snow Valley Employees a level of training in Snow Valley’s Emergency Lift
Evacuation Plan to ensure a timely and effective lift evacuation. Training will be provided on three
levels:
Level 1-Basic
Training will include a discussion of the overall plan and the various duties that should be
performed such as dispatch record keeping, guest services, contacting off-premises managers,
and covering for others responding to the incident location. This training is geared toward
employees who will most likely remain off the mountain in the event of a lift evacuation.
Approximate training time: 20 minutes.
Level 2-Support
Training will include all of the above plus a discussion of support functions that are needed at
the lift evacuation location. These employees must have the ability to load and unload a chair
lift safely, (foot traffic is permitted), and posses the physical dexterity to access any terrain at
Snow Valley. Support employees will be asked to join operational teams to assist with
evacuated guests or other on-mountain duties.
Approximate training time-30 minutes
Level 3-Operational
Training will include all of the above, along with demonstrations and practice using in linesetting, tower-climbing, system set-up and belaying. Employees must complete the “Snow
Valley Climbing and Working Aloft Policy Guidelines” training, as well as be in a physical
condition that enables them to maneuver on terrain beneath the affected lift, (which may
require strenuous hiking).
Approximate training time-2 to 4 hours with monthly proficiency training
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Lesson Plan
Level I – Administrative
“Level I” qualified persons in support of a Lift Evacuation should be familiar with the overall process that
occurs when a lift is called “10-7” and the conditions when a rope rescue may be necessary. The Level I
Rescuer should understand the Incident Command System (ICS) in relation to the overall plan, and the
various administrative functions needed in support of the overall plan, and may not be deployed in the
field.
Training will include:
1. A review of the written Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan including:
a. Definitions of the three training levels.
b. Overview of general information.
c. Description of Duties by Department.
2. Level I staging area when evacuation is announced:
a. Guest Services deck. Guest Services Manager assumes the role of coordinator.
3. Level I assignments in support of overall evacuation may include:
a. Uniformed employees/hosts in base area to answer questions.
b. Assist in guest services.
c. Back-up dispatcher to help with radio traffic or notifications
d. Base Patrol coverage.
e. Resort phone operator support.
a. Discuss “Passenger/Guest Log” and raffle ticket accountability system and how passengers
will be given a “keep this coupon” half of ticket to prove they were passengers on the failed
lift. The ticket may be redeemed for anything from a cup of hot cocoa to a day lift ticket.
This will be at the General Manager’s discretion. Reminder: do not make any promises.
Instruct passengers to take ticket to Guest Services “if concerned about the situation today”.
Note: Ski School personnel may be asked to respond to top of failed lift and to assist rescue teams with
off-loaded passengers once they are on the ground.
Level II – Support
In addition to “Level I” training, employees will receive training in all aspects of the rope rescue system
used at Snow Valley. Level II rescuers must have the physical dexterity to access any terrain at Snow
Valley.
Training will include:
1. Discuss general definitions and terminology.
2. Theory and discussion of the components of the Rope Rescue System including:
Kern mantle rope, rescue seat, figure-8” on bight knots, seat harness, line-saver, hasty seat (1”
webbing), “8 plate” belay device, locking carabineer, auto-lock.
3. How to use the Passenger/Guest log.
4. Review of the “Operational Procedures”.
5. Videos of a rope rescue underway (if available) from “Ski Patrol” the TV show.
6. Hands-on practice of the following skills:
 Figure-9 on a bight.
 Hasty seat (1” webbing)
 Donning the climbing seat harness.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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 Belay skills
7. System rigging – observe tower climber.
8. Rope Management Skills:
 Seating/unseating line-saver.
 Flipping rope/line-saver past carrier grips.
9. Final scenario-deploy a rescue team with instructor or other Level III rescuer as “Team
Leader/Tower Climber”. Level II rescuers will rig system and prepare to simulate evacuating a
carrier. The Level II candidate will:
 Don seat harness while maintaining communication with passengers.
 Rig system once tower-climber has deployed line.
 Pull rescue seat in to position.
 Demonstrate belay technique (instructor will put load on tag-line).
 Lower “passenger” to ground using proper belay technique.
 Unseat line-saver and mover rope past carrier.
Level III – Operational
Employees, volunteers and other responders (including outside agency rescuers) will be training in all
aspects of the Rope Rescue System including training in the Snow Valley Climbing Aloft Policy
Guidelines, lift tower climbing and line-setting, and common problems, special situations, (such as steep
terrain rescues and incapacitated passengers), and how to handle first aid that may be needed while
passenger is in the carrier or reaches the ground. This is in addition to Level I, and Level II, training.
Training will include:
1. Review of the SV Climbing Aloft Policy, SV Fall Protection Policy Guidelines, and Snow Valley
Lockout/Tag Out Policy Guidelines.
2. Hands-on practice; donning a full-body harness.
3. Hands-on practice; tower climbing techniques, the “clip and climb” process, how to set the
rescue rope over the haul cables, lead line, line-launcher and tossing the rescue rope.
4. Ascender practice. Practice ascending to carrier procedures, haul-up using rigged system and
mechanical ascenders. Practice midline butterfly knot/pull-down rappel technique.
5. Final scenario; participate in mock lift evacuation scenario including live passenger loads, at
least once annually. On-going practice and review of skills throughout season will include steep
terrain evacuations, high span considerations, and incapacitated passenger procedures.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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General Information Guide
Overview
When a lift operator is unable to re-start a chairlift, or a lift fails, dispatch is contacted. In turn, dispatch
contacts lift maintenance and the lift is declared “10-7” (will not start, or under the control of Lift
Maintenance). When the chairlift is running again, the lift maintenance mechanic advises dispatch that
the lift is now “10-8” (ready to start, or returned to lift operations for the day). The lift mechanic will
give a brief explanation concerning the nature of the problem.
On occasion, Lift Maintenance is unable to re-start a lift. If the problem is electrical in nature, the lift’s
drive can be switched over to the auxiliary power unit (APU), which can take several minutes. Once
completed, passengers can be unloaded from the chairlift. However, if the auxiliary power unit (APU)
cannot be used, then the Lift Maintenance Supervisor or Mountain Operations Manager will declare a
lift evacuation. The passengers on the lift will then need to be evacuated using a rope rescue system.
When a lift evacuation is declared, it requires all available employees on the premises to activate this
plan. If a professional efficient response is presented, then it can mitigate many of our guests concerns.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI Code B77.1-2011), the National Ski Area Association
and the National Ski Patrol have developed guidelines for use in rope lift evacuations and in the
development of a Lift Evacuation Plan. The following Lift Evacuation Plan uses information provided by
the Lift Evacuation Manual published by these organizations.
Guest Considerations
In the event of a lift failure, guests are obviously inconvenienced. The General Manager, or Marketing
Manager, may decide it is appropriate to compensate passengers in some way. This decision remains
solely at their discretion and Mountain Patrol will be advised accordingly. It should be noted that no
employee should at any time promise any form of compensation.
When a chairlift is off-loaded after any significant delay, designated staff or Mountain Patrol will be
stationed at the unloading ramp of the effected chairlift with special tickets to be distributed, and will
advise passengers that they can be redeemed in Guest Services. Compensation, if any, will be
announced at the time of redemption.
In the event of an actual rope lift evacuation, Guest Services will document passenger name, address
and phone number on the Lift Evacuation Passenger Log at the time of ticket redemption.
Communications
Snow Valley Radio Channel 1 will be used as the primary channel for the lift evacuation, unless
otherwise announced via radio. Therefore, all communication should be dedicated to essential
employees and evacuation teams concerning the evacuation traffic only. Keep all other radio traffic to a
minimum. In the event a secondary channel is assigned, Dispatch will need to monitor both channels.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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General Definitions and Terminology
American National Standards Institute (ANSI B77.1-2011): published standards for ropeway operations
that include requirements for maintenance, signage, evacuation plans, and training personnel for fixed
grip lifts (4.3.2.5.7).
Chairlift: a unit consisting of a system of power units, haul rope and carriers used to transport
passengers up a slope. All chairlifts at Snow Valley are fixed-grip aerial lifts with carriers.
Cable or Haul Rope: this refers to the woven steel cable that is driven by the power unit and supports
the passenger conveyance devices, or carriers.
Carriers: Carriers are designed to seat passengers, and are connected to the haul rope (or cable) with a
steel cable grip. The grip is either clamped onto, or woven into, the haul rope.
Communications line (com line): a rubber sheathed cable containing phone and lift circuitry wires.
Important note: This line is not designed to bear weight and is never used while performing any rescue
operation.
Passenger Log: documentation collected during a lift evacuation that includes passenger’s name,
address, and phone number. This is to be kept on file for future reference, if needed.
Incident Command System (ICS): Developed for emergency service agencies to ensure the smooth and
safe operation based on the concept of an effective chain of command. Snow Valley will use the
following positions identified by the ICS:
Incident Commander: a person having the ultimate responsibility for any operation. This
position is assigned to the Mountain Operations Manager, or assigns, and will hereinafter be
referred to in this plan as the Operations Manager.
Operations Chief: a person responsible for implementing this Emergency Evacuation Plan. This
position is assigned to the Mountain Patrol Manager, or assigns, and will hereinafter be referred
to in this plan as the Patrol Manager.
Safety Officer: a person overseeing the general safety of the operation and has the authority to
stop any unsafe operation. The Mountain Patrol Supervisor, or other qualified Patroller, fills this
position. The same person serving as the Operations Officer may also assume the Safety Officer
position.
Lead line: a lightweight line that is placed over the cable using a line-launcher or other device. This line
is then tied to the end of the rescue rope for placement over the haul rope.
Line-Launcher: a device that uses a .22 caliber blank to shoot a large rubber “dummy” over the haul
rope trailing a light lead line used to place the rescue rope over the haul rope. Instructions for use
included herewith.
Line-Saver: a steel C-shaped tube through which the rescue rope is threaded to protect the rescue rope
from abrasion and contamination from the haul rope.
Rescue Rope: a ½” kern mantle static rescue rope with lengths may varying from 150 to 300 feet.
Seat: the cascade evacuation seat that is attached to the rescue rope and used to lower passengers to
the ground.
Tag line: the single (standing) end of the rescue rope after it passes through the belay device and is tied
to the rear of the seat, used to control the motion of the seat.
Loss end of rope: the doubled section of the rescue rope that uses Z-rigging to create a mechanical
advantage in the system to make belaying easier.
United States Forest Service (USFS): a division of the US Department of Agriculture. Snow Valley
operates with a special use permit issued by the USFS. And must comply with all USFS rules and
requirements
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Lift Evacuation Plan Description of Duties by Department
Mountain Operations Manager: The Mountain Operations Manager is ultimately responsible for all
operations, and also the ultimate responsibility to make the decision to implement the Lift Evacuation
Plan. This decision will usually be made after consulting with the General Manager, Lift Maintenance
Supervisor, Mountain Patrol and the Snow Valley Dispatch lift failure time sequence guide timeline,
(included herewith and made a part thereof). Other factors may be considered also, such as current
weather conditions and the possibility for primary or auxiliary engine off-loading. If the Mountain
Operations Manager is not on-site at the time of a lift failure that requires a rope Lift Evacuation, the Lift
Operations Manager will assume these responsibilities throughout implementation of the Lift
Evacuation Plan.
Lift Maintenance Supervisor: The Lift Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for responding to the top
of the 10-7 lift, if not already present when Lift Maintenance advises Dispatch of the potential for a lift
evacuation. If lift failure is confirmed, the Lift Maintenance Supervisor will advise the Operations
Manager of the condition of the failed lift. The Lift Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for
implementing the Lock Out/Tag Out procedures on the failed lift, and notifying the Operations Manger
when the Lock Out/Tag Out is complete and the evacuation is clear to begin. If the Lift Maintenance
Supervisor is not on-site at the time of the lift failure that requires a rope evacuation, the next ranking
Lift Maintenance Mechanic will assume these responsibilities throughout the implementation of the Lift
Evacuation Plan.
Mountain Patrol Manager: The Mountain Patrol Manager is responsible for the implementation of the
Lift Evacuation Plan and will assign teams with tower span assignments. It may be decided to delegate
this responsibility to another responsible person. If the Mountain Patrol Manager is off-site at the time
a lift evacuation is announced, then the next ranking Patroller will assume responsibility throughout the
implementation of the lift evacuation plan.
Dispatcher: The Dispatcher is responsible for all lift evacuation notifications and incident
documentation. Dispatch will notify the General Manager, Mountain Operations Manager, Lift
Operations Manager, and Mountain Patrol Manager via home phone numbers, if necessary. Updated
contact names and phone numbers are to be provided to Dispatcher each season.
Learning Center Manager: The Learning Center Manager will assemble all available staff to assist
evacuation teams. Transportation may be coordinated with lift operations for transportation needs. If
the Learning Center Manager is off-site during the evacuation then the next ranking supervisor will
assume this responsibility.
Vehicle Maintenance staff: The Vehicle Maintenance staff will be responsible to assemble all available
transportation, with available operators, behind the Mountain Patrol garage. Certified snowmobile
operators will transport as needed to help facilitate the lift evacuation.
Marketing Manager: The Marketing Manager, or assigns, will be the liaison for all media and
information concerning the lift evacuation.
Guest Services Manager or Supervisor: Guest services will be responsible for coordinating all guest
related issues including keeping the log with passenger names with information and arrange for
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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vouchers or refunds as directed by the General Manager. Guest Services may coordinate with Food &
Beverage staff to accomplish this in a timely manner. Guest services will assign Level I employees to
assist with the implementation of the plan, if requested by Mountain Patrol.
Lift Operations Manager: The Lift Operations Manager will provide a back-up dispatcher to assist with
radio traffic, notifications, and recording information as necessary. An alternate lift may be staffed for
ease of flow for passengers and/or transportation for evacuation teams. In the event the Lift Operations
Manager is not on-site, the Lift Operations Supervisor will assume this responsibility.
All other departments: All other departments will send any available trained employees to the
following locations; Level I employees will report to the Guest Services deck staging area. Level II/III will
report to the incident staging area on the mountain. This specific location is to be determined and will
be announced through the Dispatcher via radio. If lift transportation is not available at the time a lift
evacuation is declared, then assemble behind the Mountain Patrol garage area for snowmobile
transportation. Other duties necessary may include; assisting dispatcher, assisting guest service
counter, staffing base patrol, making off-site notifications, preparing vouchers/coupons as directed by
the General Manager or Marketing Manager.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Snow Valley Dispatch Lift Failure Time Sequence Guide
0-Minutes
Lift Operator:
Dispatch:
Lift Maintenance:
Patrol/Operations:
5-Minute Mark
Dispatch:
Lift Maintenance:
Dispatch:
10-Minute Mark
Dispatch:
Lift Maintenance:
Dispatch:
Patrol:
GM or Marketing Manager:
Level II/III Employees:
Patrol Manager:
20-Minute Mark
Dispatch:
Patrol:
Mtn. Operations Manager:
Lift Maintenance:
Dispatch:
Patrol Manager:
Informs Dispatch of lift failure.
Informs Lift Maintenance of 10-7.
Begins to document times in log.
Responds to failed lift.
Acknowledges 10-7 lift traffic.
Announces, “Lift ____, 10-7, 5 minute mark”
Assesses problem. Advises whether problem is known.
Gives estimated downtime, if possible.
Records time & mechanics observation in log.
Notifies all points of Sales, per Notification Log.
Announces, “Lift ____, 10-7, 10 minute mark”
Advises Dispatch of any updates.
Requests: “Mountain Patrol, can you ski the line”
Skis the line to communicate with riders
Prepare for Lift Evacuation Standby
Assesses situation; determines compensation, (If any), on behalf
of guests on the failed lift line.
Respond to team staging area (near top of failed Lift).
Begins to assemble Evacuation Teams and tower assignments.
Sends patroller down the ailed lift line to communicate with
guests and inventory specific needs of the guests.
Announces, “Lift ____, 10-7, 20 minute mark.”
Continues to record times & brief summary of each action as it
happens
Requests: “Mtn. Patrol, can you ski the line”
Skis the line to communicate with riders
Advises General Manager of condition of failed Lift. May
Declare lift evacuation. If lift evacuation is declared, then the
Mtn. Operations Manager will assume role of Incident
Commander. Confirms that Patrol Manager has assumed the
position of Operations Chief and has assumed, or delegated, the
position of Safety Officer.
Will Lock Out/Tag Out lift drive and advise dispatch and Mtn.
Patrol Manager.
Logs all Lock Out/Tag Out activities with times.
Continues to log all any Evacuation specifics.
Announces team assignments, orders all teams to their assigned
tower spans. Assigns line-launcher duty. Assigns any Level II or
III employee to ski failed lift line to continue ongoing
communication with riders.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Lift Operations Manager:
Maintenance Manager:
Guest Services Manager:
Evacuations Begin
Dispatch:
Incident Commander:
Responds to changing needs of lift operations by staffing
alternate lifts, as needed.
Responds to staging area prepared to assist with lift evacuation
or Lift Ops transportation needs.
Responds to staging area. Assigns all available Level I
employees as needed to support Lift Evacuation Plan.
Continues to log towers, called by Team Leaders using
Emergency Chair Evacuation log to record all times and
information.
Announces when evacuation is complete.
Restarting the chair lift during an evacuation
Step #1: Management and Lift Maintenance
Lift maintenance and the ranking area manager must mutually agree that restarting the chair lift would
be more expedient than continuing with the evacuation.
Step #2: Management
Prior to restarting the lift, all evacuation teams will be notified by radio to cease the evacuation and
remove any gear from the chair lift line.
Step #3: Mountain Patrol
The Safety Officer will travel the entire line and confirm that equipment, and personnel, are cleared
prior to restarting the chair lift. The Safety Officer will report this to the Incident Commander, who will
log it and then relay the information to lift maintenance.
Step #4
All evacuation teams will remain staged in place until the chair lift line is clear.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Operational Procedures guidelines
All level II and III employees must read and understand this lift evacuation plan. When a lit is declared
10/7 (will not start), and a potential lift evacuation is announced, then available level II or III employees
should respond to the top of the failed chairlift.
The Mountain Patrol Manager, or assigns, will begin to implement the lift evacuation plan by assigning
the following duties:
1. Line-check. One person will ski or ride under the lift line to inform passengers of the
situation, check for the carrier load, and look for special needs such as unaccompanied children,
specific needs passengers, special ski equipment, et al.
2. Line-setter. This level II rescuer may shoot the line-launcher over the haul rope at each tower
and tie the lead line to a tower rung ahead of the evacuation teams.
3. Team assignments. These assignments will include the following:
a. Team leader. In the absence of a preset line, this level III rescuer will set the line
while considering the SV Climbing Aloft Policy guidelines. The team leader will also
assume the role of “seat guide” using the standing (single) end of the rescue rope.
b. Belayer. This level III rescuer will set up the system while the team leader is setting
the line. The Belayer is responsible for belaying the passenger to the ground by using
the seat harness and “figure-8” belay device.
c. Guest support. This level II rescuer will explain the process to passengers with a clear
and calm tone, while demonstrating the proper use of the evacuation seat and assist the
passenger once he/she are within reach. Turn skis/board perpendicular to the fall line.
Assist ground passengers, issue ticket, and advise them to redeem it in Guest Services.
Provide or arrange for “ground care” to any passenger, if needed. Once the passenger
reaches the ground and has been offered the ticket, he/she will be considered
“released” from care in the event no further personal aid is requested.
Note: if a third person is not available, the team leader or Belayer may share this duty.
4. Teams will assume position at the designated tower once the Mountain Patrol Manager gives
direction. Harnesses may be donned at the staging location.
5. The Mountain Patrol Manger will direct all teams when to begin the evacuation, via radio
communication. The line-setter may begin shooting the lead line over the haul rope, if needed.
Note: this device may be necessary for the steepest terrain, such as the line of chair lift #3.
6. Once each team is successful with the evacuation of tower spans as assigned, and then the
lift evacuation will be considered complete. The Patrol Manager and Safety Officer will then ski
or ride under the line to confirm that the entire lift line is in fact clear, or free of all passengers
and equipment. At this point, the dispatcher is to be advised via radio communication that the
“line is clear and the evacuation has now been completed”.
7. Guest Services will collect redeemed tickets in the Guest Services office and record all
passenger information using the Lift Evacuation Incident Log. The original log should be
attached to all evacuation documentation and filed with the operations documentation for that
season.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Evacuation Procedure Guidelines and Equipment
The following procedure describes the physical process of evacuating a chair lift after the decision to
evacuate has been made. (This procedure does not take into account problems such as thunderstorms,
skiable chair lines, and availability of trained personnel). Necessary equipment may be as follows:
Cascade Evacuation Seat- 3’-tall, square steel, curved at the bottom with a wooden seat 1’ X 6” square.
The top has a welded steel attachment ring. The chair seat also has a rope loop, with a slide ring
attached. This should be placed under the passenger’s arms and then secured around the chest.
Lowering Rope- a ½-inch nylon kern mantle static rescue rope. Lengths may vary from 150-feet to 300feet. The rope should be tied on one end with a figure-8 type knot.
Line Saver- a “C” shaped tubular steel device, threaded onto the middle of the lowering rope, and then
placed over the haulrope to protect the “lowering rope” from wearing down and from scraping or
rubbing against the haulrope.
Carabiners-Aluminum alloy carabiners are “D” shaped connectors used to quickly connect and
disconnect a rope or piece of hardware.
Figure 8-Alloy 8-plate device used for Belay known as an 8-plate.
Harness and lanyard-A rescuer wears harness, and a carabiner goes in to the harness, which is attached
using a figure-9 knot to the knot.
Equipment Storage-There should be seven packs total of chair evacuation equipment. Three packs are
located in base patrol, and three packs placed at top station and the last pack is available at the slide
peak station. Placed in several locations throughout the resort: Top Station has 3 sets, Slide Peak station
has 1 set and Base Station has 3 sets.
4:1 System-provides a mechanical advantage used for incapacitated or non-ambulatory passenger
rescue from a carrier or in an “over-the-side” rescue, (such as bear canyon or icy conditions that could
exist under Lift #11 Slide Peak area). A pulley may be used in the event of a non-ambulatory passenger.
Physical Chair Evacuation Procedure
Harnesses should be donned at top station or base patrol. Teams will report to their assigned span of
chairs between towers once the Incident Commander gives the command. Always begin at the most
uphill tower from the first chair to be evacuated. Evacuate small children, the elderly any passengers
with medical problems first. (See Special Rescue Procedure for evacuating incapacitated guest or guests
who are unable to follow procedure instructions).
One team member will explain the process, along with what to expect to each and every passenger.
Teams will be ready to climb the tower with the evacuation pack. The rescuer climbing the tower must
clip lanyards to intermittent rungs while climbing for protection if they slip and fall. At the top of the
tower, the climber must clip both lanyards to separate rungs, and then straddle the “T” section at the
top of the tower.
At this point, the pre set-up double-section of the rope is to be extracted from the bag and flaked out on
the inside of the uphill haul rope or cable. When the line saver is reached, the rescuer will grasp the line
saver in one hand, and toss the bag with the remaining rope over the outside of the uphill cable.
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One of the team members should climb down the tower using the same clip & climb method as the
ascent. The other rescuer should clip the end of the rope with the carabiner, to the attachment ring and
the chest rope, on the cascade chair. The single rope should be clipped near the base of the cascade
chair and used as the tag line. The line saver should be placed over tower cable with a quick tug of the
rope.
Once the system has been set up, one team member assumes the belay position, while the other
stabilizes the cascade chair with the guide rope, and will shout instructions to the passenger being
evacuated.
Instructions should be as follows:
Instruct evacuees to drop their poles to the side, but to keep ski/board equipment on. (Alert team
members at this time to watch out below.) Then, ask the evacuee to place one arm around the chair
while physically demonstrating the procedure on the ground.
Now, have the Belayer haul the cascade chair up to the evacuee. Advise the evacuee not to reach out
for the cascade chair. Next, instruct them to take the chair with their free hand and then place it
between their legs, as demonstrated. Have evacuee place rope loop over their head and under their
arms, and then ask them to hold on to cascade chair with both of their hands.
The Belayer will hold tension on one end of the rope, while other team member continues to instruct
the evacuee to slide off the carrier, all the while assisting with the guide rope. Belayer will slowly lower
the evacuee.
Once the evacuee is near the ground, the team member controlling the guide rope should rotate them
so that their skis or snowboard are perpendicular to the fall line of the slope. The Belayer then will
slowly lower the evacuee to the ground and provide the special ticket. (Do not promise any passenger a
refund.) The evacuee will now be considered “released” if no further assistance is requested, or seems
necessary.
The time, carrier number and tower span should be recorded. Evacuees should be directed or
transported to Guest Services for further assistance, if desired. Also, provide the evacuee with a special
ticket in order to prove they were in fact passengers of the evacuated chair lift.
Before moving on to the next carrier, the rope saver should be removed from the cable with the flip of
the rope and Cascade Chair and the rope flipped over the grip.
Repeat entire procedure until all assigned tower spans have been cleared and recorded. Now, rescuers
should report to the operations Incident Commander for the next assignment.
Note: all equipment should be inspected, and then repacked exactly as it was removed from the pack.
Special procedure for Evacuating Incapacitated Guests:
The Safety Officer along with five additional rescuers will be required. All safety and equipment
procedures will be followed in accordance with the standard Rope Rescue and this Emergency
Evacuation Plan.
An extra pulley will be added to the system at the rope saver to create a 4-to-1 mechanical advantage. A
Rescuer with special training will be clipped into the system, with a full body harness, and with the
cascade chair.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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The Safety Officer must be present for this rescue operation. Two additional rescuers will assist the
Belayer to raise the first rescuer to the evacuee in the chair. An additional rescuer will control the tag
line. The Belayer must be at the end of the working section on the rope and provide belay with figure-8
device. The rescuer should assist the evacuee in to the cascade chair and then check that the chest rope
is secure. Both the rescuer and evacuee will be lowered in accordance with this entire plan.
Down bound Passenger Lift Evacuation Procedure Guidelines
One of the functions of the line-saver is that it prevents the rescue line from sliding up and over the
carrier’s grip, and down to the next carrier on the haul rope. However, when there is a passenger in
a down bound carrier, then procedure needs to be adjusted to take this in to account. In the even t
of a down bound passenger requiring a rope evacuation on the downhill slope, the line-saver and
rescue line should be set in place behind the carrier’s grip. The Belayer will assume the normal
belay stance, behind or beneath the carrier. Once the Belayer is positioned and ready, the tag-line
tender will pull the rescue seat around to the front of the carrier, and then to the passenger. The
passenger will then don the seat and will be lowered to the ground, using normal procedure.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Action Breakdown
Team Leader
Rescuer dons full body harness,
helmet and lanyard.
Uses pre-set lead line or climbs
tower to set single section of rope
over haul rope so that rescue rope
falls to the outside of haul rope. If
climbing tower, attach single end
of rescue rope to harness while
climbing.
Pulls on the single section of
rescue rope until the line-saver is
set over the haul rope.
Assumes the role of "seat guide"
using the tag line.
Using the tag line, keeps the seat
well out of reach of the passenger
until Belayer is in the proper
position and ready for belaying.
Belayer
Dons seat harness.
Attach the double section of
rescue rope and pulley to the "O"
ring at the top of the evacuation
seat.
Assists with setting line-saver if
line-setter is not in a position to
do so.
Attaches the single end of the
rescue rope to the rear of the
evacuation seat to act as a tag
line.
Pulls on the single section of
rescue rope, lifting the seat into a
position away from but at the
same height as the carrier.
Attaches the belay device to the
single section of rescue rope and
removes all slack. Assumes the
proper belay position. When
ready, states "On Belay".
Guides the seat to the carrier
within easy reach of the
passenger(s).
Uses guide line to prevent
pendulum effect.
Resets system to evacuate
additional rider from same carrier
or moves on to next carrier.
Ascends next tower if needed.
Slowly and steadily lowers
guest(s) to a position
approximately 3-4' from ground.
Lowers guest(s) all the way to the
ground.
Resets system for same carrier or
moves on to next carrier.
Guest Support
Starts to explain process to
passenger(s).
Instructs the passenger(s) to toss
any ski poles to a safe area.
Using the evacuation seat,
demonstrates to the passenger(s)
how to place the orange loop
under armpits and how to place
the seat. Instructs them not to
reach for the seat, that it will be
guided to them.
Reminds the passenger(s) not to
reach for the evacuation seat.
Instructs the passenger(s) to
arrange orange loop over their
head and under armpits, cinching
it tight. Further instructs to place
seat between legs and under
buttocks, then to slide off the
carrier.
Turns passenger's equipment
sideways to the slope. Removes
equipment if necessary for safety.
Assists passenger(s) to a stable
position.
Assists passenger(s), issues ticket,
refers passengers to Guest
Services to document information
in Evacuation Log. Requests
transportation if passenger(s)
is/are unable to descend slope.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
14
SNOW VALLEY LIFTS DEPLOYMENT TABLE
LIFT #
TOWERS
# OF TEAMS
COMMENTS
1
22
7
2
18
7
3
16
7
4
5
6
10
13
7
5
8
5
4
9
14
7
10
11
5
7
4
4
12
5
4
13
5
4
Double fixed grip. All Packs. Evacuation time may be 2
hours or more.
Triple fixed grip. All Packs. Evacuation time may be up
to 2 hours.
Triple fixed grip. All packs, Bear Canyon Pack. Deploy
special team for possible rope rescue out of the canyon.
Steep terrain and/or rough terrain rough at some spans.
Evacuation time may be 2 hours or more.
Out of service.
Out of service 1999/2000 season.
Double fixed grip. Base Area. Small children and
beginners. Evacuation time may be up to 2 hours.
Double fixed grip. All packs. Evacuation time may be less
than 2 hours.
Double fixed grip. Slide Area–all packs. Terrain rough at
some spans. Patroller may need to pack down a foot trail
from evacuation point to groomed slope. Evacuation time
may be less than 2 hours.
Double fixed grip. Slide Area. Out of service.
Triple fixed grip. Slide Area–150’ packs. More difficult
terrain due to possible excessively icy conditions & steep
terrain. May need rope traverse safety line or cramp-ons
attached to footwear for traction. Rescuer may need to
pack down a foot trail from evacuation point to groomed
slope. Evacuation time may be up to 2 hours.
Double fixed grip. Base area. Small children. Foot traffic.
Beginners. Evacuation time may be less than to 2 hours.
Triple fixed grip. Base area. Small children, beginners.
Evacuation time may be less than 2 hours.
5
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
15
Team Assignments
Chair lift #1
Team 1-Tower 22
2- Tower 18
3- Tower 14
4- Tower 9
5- Tower 5
6 & 7 Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #2
Team 1- Tower 18
2- Tower 15
3- Tower 12
4- Tower 9
5- Tower 6
6 & 7 Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #3
Team 1- Tower 16
2- Tower 13
3- Tower 9
4- Tower 7
5- Tower 4
6- Bear Canyon Span (Towers 8 and 9 – 300’ Pack + Rope Rescue Equipment)
7- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #4 (out of service)
Chair lift #5 (out of service)
Chair lift #6
Team 1- Tower 7
2- Tower 5
3- Tower 3
4- Tower 2
5- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #8 (A snow cat may be required for evacuees on Chairs 8,9,10,11)
Team 1- Tower 5
2- Tower 4
3- Tower 3
4- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #9
Team 1- Tower 12
2- Tower 10
3- Tower 8
4- Tower 6
5- Tower 4
6 & 7 Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #10 (out of service)
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Chair lift #11
Team 1- Tower 7
2- Tower 5
3- Tower 3
4- Tower 2
5- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #12
Team 1- Tower 7
2- Tower 5
3- Tower 2
4- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #13
Team 1- Tower 5
2- Tower 4
3- Tower 3
4- Tower 2
5- Special Assignment/Rescue/First aid, if needed
Chair lift #14 (conveyor lift)
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
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Rope Rescue (RR) Bag Supplies
RR Bag #1 (located at the bottom of chair lift 13)
 300’ Static Rope
 Petzel Helmet
 Red Bag
RR Bag #2 (located at mid chair lift 1 station)
 200’ Static Rope
 Full Body Harness
 Lanyard/Shock Set
 Petzel Helmet
 RR Bag #3
 RR Bag #4
RR Bag #3 (located at top station)
 Reg. Locking Carabiner
 Self Locking Carabiner
 Large Steel Carabiner
 8 Plate W/Ears
 8 Plate
 Double Rescue Pulley
 Rescue Pulley
 Gibbs Ascenders
 Prusik Rope
 Rope Saver
 Seat Harness
 Red Backpack
RR Bag #4
 20’ Webbing (Blue)
 15’ Webbing (Black)
 15’ Webbing (Orange)
 10’ Webbing (Red)
 10’ Webbing (Orange)
 8’ Webbing (Orange)
 5’ Webbing (Orange)
RR Bag #7 (Slide Peak Pack)
 150’ Static Rope
 Class 3 Harness
 Belay Harness
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
18






2x Carabiners (Locking/Self-Locking)
1x Line Saver
1x Safety Lanyard
Red Bag
#8 Plate
Evacuation Chair
RR Bag #8 (4:1)
 200’ Static Rope
 4x Carabiners (Locking)
 1 Prusik
 2 PMP
 Orange Bag
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
19
Line-launcher Instructions
The line-launcher has the recoil of a shotgun. Beware; improper maintenance and failure of properly and
firmly position the stock may result in injury.
Warnings
Never: Insert a live load into the chamber.
Never: Use a load other than those specifically designed and recommended for use in Lucky Launcher II.
Never: Use a load heavier than a #5 Red Heavy Load. Recoil from #5 Heavy Loads (Red) may be too
excessive for some users. Use extreme caution when using these loads.
Never: Aim or fire the launcher at anyone or anything.
Never: Use a dummy not specifically designed for use with a Lucky Launcher II.
Never: Cock the bolt until you are ready to fire.
Never: Fire the Launcher if the exhaust hole in the shaft is partially or completely blocked.
Never: Operate the Launcher without proper ear and eye protection.
Never: Allow this Launcher to be accessible to children.
Never: Place a load in the chamber before placing a dummy on the shaft.
Operating instructions
1. Slide the Launcher dummy onto the launcher shaft.
2. Open the breech by depressing the breech lock thumb latch and rip the shaft assembly down to
gain access to the chamber.
3. Insert a Lucky Dog 22 cal. Blank cartridge into the chamber. Make certain the cartridge is fully
seated.
4. Close the unit and press the thumb latch in to assure that is fully closed.
5. Aim the unit in the direction you wish to fire the dummy, placing the shoulder stock firmly on
your shoulder stock firmly on your thigh, hip or shoulder.
6. Pull back the bolt to the locked position.
7. The Launcher is now ready to fire. Pull the trigger when ready.
8. To remove the spent cartridge, depress the breech lock thumb latch and tip the shaft assembly
enough to be easily removed.
9. Always remove the dummy from the barrel when not in use.
THIS IS NOT A TOY!
Maintenance
Thoroughly clean the barrel, chamber and hinge mechanism with a good gun cleaning solvent after each
use. A small amount of gun oil applied to the hinge will assure smooth operation. Clean the chamber
with a 22 cal. brush. Make certain to only insert the brush 3/4 “ past shell depth. Clean and dry the
tubes of all your dummies, then apply a very thin coating of WD-40. This will prevent rusting and O-ring
problems. Worn or damaged o-rings should be replaced when wear is evident and launching
performance is reduced. Contact your retailer for replacement.
Other Equipment needs
There are many pieces of equipment that may be necessary. Refer to Inventory Logs for the complete
list.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
20
Snow Valley Fall Protection Policy Guidelines
This fall protection policy will provide information and guidelines about tasks that require fall protection
equipment, the type of equipment provided by Snow Valley, and the correct procedure for use of this
equipment. Although this fall protection policy has been developed specifically for Snow Valley and takes into
consideration specific sites and tasks, covering all climbing scenarios is not possible. It is the employee’s duty
to seek further assistance from Snow Valley management if unsure about a scenario not covered in this
document.
Affected employees
The employees affected by this program are any whose job requires them to work at heights over 6 feet. This
includes, but may not be limited to: equipment maintenance, ski patrol, building maintenance, trail
maintenance, and snowmaking. The Maintenance Manager is responsible for resort wide training with the
exception of ski patrol for the purpose of lift evacuation training. The Mountain Patrol Department Manager
will conduct that training.
All training will include a review of policy guidelines with hands-on training in the proper use of equipment
and techniques.
Fall Protection Equipment
Fall protection equipment must meet Cal/OSHA’s title 8 section 1670 requirement of a full body harness with
the attachment point being on the chest, center of the back, or above the user’s head. Each employee shall be
attached to a separate lifeline and anchorage point. There are two different types of lanyards at Snow Valley,
they are work positioning, and fall protection devices. Fall protection lanyards are equipped with a shock
absorber that reduces the stress of a fall. Work positioning devices are not equipped with shock-absorbing
devices and are meant for leaning on while working. Fall protection devices must be used even if workpositioning devices are also used. Employees shall use only harness, lanyards, and fall protection devices
issued by Snow Valley. All equipment must be inspected prior to each use and at intervals specified by the
manufacturer.
Harness inspection
Before each use, the user must inspect their harness and lanyards for damage such as cuts, tears, burns,
chemical damage, or excessive fraying. Moving parts must operate freely and correctly. Steel parts may not
show signs of distortion, burns or welding, or wear showing a visible loss of material. If in doubt, take the
harness to the Maintenance Manager for further inspection. The Maintenance Manager or Mountain Patrol
Manager must inspect each harness annually.
Anchorage points
Acceptable tie-off points must be used at all times. These include the tower ladder while the climber is still on
the ladder, the stirrups on the tower tops or the built in lifting frame, (available on some towers). The comline, haul rope, and com-line anchors are not acceptable anchor points. Anchorage points may not be shared
between climbers. In some cases a nylon sling may be needed to provide a suitable anchorage point. In this
case, the user must inspect the sling to confirm it is in serviceable condition prior to using it. In all instances, an
anchorage point must be strong enough to hold 5,000 pounds. Be sure that any slings or devices used meet
this requirement.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
21
Clip-and-climb
Clip-and-climb consists of the climber clipping to the ladder, prior to beginning to climb and maintaining 100%
tie off for the duration of time spent climbing and working aloft. In order for a ladder to allow climbing
without fall protection, it must meet the following requirements:
The ladder must be less than 20 feet tall. The ladder rungs must be 7 inches deep or more, and the ladder
rungs must be 16 inches wide or greater. Most fixed ladders at the resort do not meet these requirements.
Currently the motor room ladders of lifts 3, 6, 9, and 12, do meet these requirements. The remaining does not
meet one or more of the above requirements.
Working from work-chairs, work-basket, or carriers
Fall protection is not required if only using a carrier for transportation. However, fall protection must be used
if work of any kind is to be performed that requires moving about or riding in the carrier in any manner, (other
than sitting still and facing forward). Fall protection must always be used while in a work-chair or loader
workbasket. When using the basket, make sure that it is bolted to the forks of the loader prior to loading or
moving it. See work-chair policy guidelines for additional work-chair information.
Weather considerations
Beware of wet or icy towers. Clear ladder rungs of ice as you climb, and beware of falling ice. If heavy ice is
present, wear a hardhat or helmet while climbing, or within the immediate area, of de-icing operations. If
lightning is present, then descend from tower or work chair immediately.
Carrying tools/parts
Never carry tools or supplies in your hands, and always keep both hands free while climbing. A tool bag is
recommended, provided it does not interfere with climbing or the function of your fall protection equipment.
It should be a manageable weight, and designed to prevent falling tools. Use haul line assistance if heavy items
must be brought from the ground.
Communications/second person
Do not climb a tower without notifying another person, or having someone within eyesight. If possible, have a
second person present throughout the operation. The climber, or the second person, must have a radio for
communication at all times. If the second person is in the immediate area of the tower, then he/she must
wear a hardhat or helmet. The second person must also have fall protection equipment available in the case of
an emergency. If there is no second person available, then the climber must carry a radio in a chest pack.
Notify the department supervisor via radio when climbing and moving to a new location. Notify the
department supervisor via radio communication when all work aloft is complete.
Counterweight tubes
Counterweight tubes are considered confined spaces and lack of a means of personnel extraction; therefore
employees are not permitted to enter counterweight tubes.
Qualified climber program
An employee classified under the qualified climber program may be allowed to climb freely, without clip and
climb equipment, only in an emergency situation. An “emergency situation” is considered an imminent danger
to the health or life of another person. No type of equipment malfunction may be considered an emergency
situation unless it also meets the above guideline of constituting an immediate danger to the health or life of
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
22
another person. This program is primarily in place to allow for the timely rescue of a falling person in a
circumstance in which the time saved by free climbing would be of substantial benefit to the party in distress
or imminent danger.
General Safety
 Wear sturdy boots with non-skid soles
 Avoid loose clothing and equipment; pay special attention to lanyards and work positioning devices on
towers.
 Use tool bags for loose parts and tools. When possible use lanyards on tools.
 Beware of persons working above you or below you.
 Never ascend or descend a ladder until the person in front of you has exited the ladder.
 Always double-check your fall protection and work positioning devices prior to weighting them or
trusting them.
 Always use locking carabineers and be sure to lock them.
 Maintain three points of contact when climbing.
 Use the safety line provided at carriages.
 Transfer fall protection to a more secure anchorage upon reaching the top of the ladder.
 Attempt to keep fall protection as high as possible to reduce the distance of any fall.
Failure to abide by this policy will result in disciplinary action up to, and possibly including, termination of
employment.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
23
Snow Valley Climbing and Working Aloft Policy Guidelines
Snow Valley has developed a fall protection program to enhance employee health and welfare. As a
company, we intend to provide information about the tasks that require fall protection equipment, the
type of equipment provided by Snow Valley, and the correct procedures for use of this equipment. This
fall protection plan has been developed specifically for Snow Valley’s work sites and considers each task
and location.
Affected employees
The employees affected by this program are any that may be given assignments that require working at
heights over 6-feet. This includes, but is not limited to; Lift Maintenance, Ski Patrol, Building
Maintenance, Trail Maintenance, and Snow Making. The Lift Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance
Manager will be responsible for resort wide training, with the exception of Mountain Patrol for lift
evacuation training. The Mountain Patrol Manager will conduct that training.
All training will include review of this policy with hands-on training and shadow mentoring in the proper
use of equipment and climbing techniques.
Fall Protection Equipment
Fall protection equipment must meet CAL/OSHA’S Title 8, Section 1670 requirement of a full-body
harness. The attachment point will be on the chest, center of the back or above the user’s head. Each
employee will be attached to a separate lifeline and anchorage point. There are two different types of
lanyards at Snow Valley, which are called “work positioning” and “fall protection” devices. Fall
protection lanyards are equipped with a shock absorber that absorbs the shock of a fall. On the other
hand, work-positioning devices are not equipped with any shock-absorbing devices. Fall protection must
always be used, even when using work-positioning devices. Snow Valley’s employees may use only
harnesses, lanyards, and carabineers issued by Snow Valley. All equipment will be inspected as per
manufacturers requirements. User should inspect equipment prior to each use and also inspect every 6months by a designated person.
Anchorage Points
Acceptable tie-off points must be used at all times. Tie-off points can include the tower ladder while the
climber is still on the ladder, the stirrups on the tower tops or the built in lifting frame, (available on
some towers). Handrails, the com-line or the com-line anchor devices are not acceptable anchor points.
Clip-and-Climb
Clip-and-Climb is required on any fixed ladder not meeting certain requirements; ladders must be less
than 20-feet tall, ladder rungs must be 7 inches deep or more, and the ladder rung width must be 16
inches or greater. The only fixed ladder at Snow Valley that meets all three of these requirements is the
motor room ladder of chair lift 6. All other fixed ladders at Snow Valley require the employee to clipand-climb. The climber must clip to the ladder rung before beginning to climb, and 100% tie-off must be
maintained at all times. The only exception is after the climb up to the motor room, where you may
unclip once the motor room porch is reached. A double lanyard fall-protection device is provided for this
purpose.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
24
Working from carriers or work chairs
Fall protection is not required if only using a carrier for transportation. However, fall protection must be
used if work of any kind is to be performed that requires moving about or riding in the carrier in any
manner other than sitting still, and facing straight forward. Fall protection must always be used while in
the work chair. You must be tied-off prior to beginning any work. If you are working from the work chair
or a carrier, you must be tied off directly to it. If you move to the tower, you must then tie off to the
tower.
Weather Considerations
Beware of wet or icy towers. Clear all ladder rungs of ice as you climb and beware of falling ice. If heavy
ice is present, wear a hardhat while climbing or being in the immediate area of de-icing operations. If
thunder or lighting is present, you must descend from the tower immediately.
Carrying Tools
Never carry tools or supplies in your hands so that both hands remain free while climbing. A tool bag on
your back or waist is acceptable provided it will not interfere with climbing, or the function of the fall
protection equipment. The tool bag will be of a manageable weight and not too heavy. If heavy items
must be taken up the tower, then use a haul line along with assistance from the ground.
Safety Watch Person on the ground
A tower should never be climbed without notifying someone, or having someone within eyesight. If
possible, use a safety watch person. The safety watch person must have a radio, with a harness and fall
protection readily available in case of emergency. If the safety watch person is in the immediate area of
the tower, then they must wear a hard hat. If there is no safety watch person immediately present,
then a climber must have a radio for communication. Once you begin to climb, you must notify someone
where you will be and update them anytime you move to another tower or when work aloft is
complete.
General Safety
 Wear sturdy boots with non-slip soles.
 Do not wear ski boots while climbing chain ladders
 Avoid loose clothing and equipment.
 Use a tool bag for loose tools and parts. When possible, use keeper lines on tools in use.
 Beware of persons below or above you.
 Never ascend or descend a ladder until the person in front of you has exited the ladder.
 Always double-check fall protection and work any positioning devices prior to trusting them!
 Always lock your locking carabineers
 Do not enter any counterweight tube.
Failure to abide by this policy may result in disciplinary actions up to, and including, termination of
employment.
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
25
Snow Valley Lockout/Tagout Policy and Procedure Guidelines
Lockout/Tagout means that an energy source that may cause an unexpected release of energy must be
disengaged, de-energized, or blocked and locked in the “OFF” position. That energy source could be
electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, compressed air or otherwise.
This lockout/tag-out procedure establishes the minimum requirements for the lockout and/or tag-out of
energy isolating devices. This procedure must be used to ensure the machine or equipment is isolated
from all potentially hazardous energy, in as much possible. Equipment or machinery should be locked
out or tagged out before any person performs any service or maintenance activities where there is
potential for any unexpected charge, start up, or release of stored energy. This can cause injury, or
equipment damage. Every employee is required to comply with this policy, and follow guidelines set
forth herewith.
It is important for all department managers to promote awareness of the lockout policy and procedure
guidelines. This will include procedures for applicable equipment lockout, and identification of lockout
equipment. Attempted operation of equipment locked out/tagged out, or the unauthorized removal of
lockout devices/tags, may result in termination of employment. Extreme cases could result in criminal
charges.
Methods of locking out equipment
There are many different methods of locking out a piece of equipment. Some equipment has lockout
feature methods. Ask your supervisor for a suitable adapter for this type of equipment. There are many
options available to lockout virtually all equipment including valves, breakers, switches, cords, and
others. If more one or more employees are working on the same piece of equipment, but on separate
tasks, then an adapter that allows multiple locks must be used. This will enable each employee to install
their own lock, and ensures that an energy release or charge will not occur until all employees are
prepared. If fuses are removed to de-energize a circuit, then the fuse box must be locked. Compressed
air, hydraulic, or stem circuit must be bled to release any existing pressure, in addition to being locked
out.
Locks, blocks, and tags
Locks: all equipment maintenance employees will have their own lock with one key for that specific lock.
The Mountain Operations Manager will hold a spare key for all lockout locks. This lock must be
substantial and durable with the name of the employee on it, or it may be identified as a “lockout lock”.
Tags: Tags are meant to convey information or warnings, but do not positively secure equipment from
being energized. Tags should state the date, time, and the reason for lockout along with the name of
the employee placing the lockout in to effect. Additionally, it should state the estimated time period
expected for lockout. It may also contain warnings or other pertinent information.
Blocks: Blocks are devices that physically hold or block equipment or energy from sliding, falling, rolling,
or blocking a path for steam, water, or other material.
Preparation for lockout
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
26
Employees authorized to perform a lockout must be certain which switch, valve, or energy isolating
devices apply to the equipment being locked out. More than one energy-source or one-energy type may
be involved. Employees should check with their department manager for any questions about lockout
procedures.
Sequence of lockout preparation
1. Notify all effected employees with the reason and estimated duration of required lockout.
2. If the equipment is operating, then shut it down using standard procedures.
3. Position switches, valves and other devices, so that all energy sources are disconnected or
isolated for the equipment. Stored energy, (such as that in capacitors, springs, elevated machine
members, rotating flywheels, hydraulic systems, and air, gas, steam or water pressure), must
also be dissipated or restrained by methods such as grounding, repositioning, blocking, or
bleeding down.
4. Lockout the energy isolating devices with individual locks for each device.
5. Test the circuit or equipment to confirm that lockout is complete and equipment is secure or deenergized. Use a method that does not subject any person to undue risk. Use the proper test
equipment. Be sure all personnel are clear of the equipment.
6. Equipment can now be considered secure and maintenance can begin.
CAUTION! Be aware that certain conditions can still allow for hazardous situations, even with
equipment locked out.
Testing equipment during lockout
In many maintenance and repair operations, machinery may need to be tested. And, for that purpose
energized before additional maintenance work can be performed. The following will apply:
1. Be sure all personnel, tools, and materials are clear of the equipment.
2. Remove lockout devices and re energize the systems, while following standard operating
procedures.
3. Proceed with testing and troubleshooting.
4. When necessary, neutralize all energy sources, purge all systems, lockout, and verify prior to
continuing work.
Restoring equipment to service
1. Be sure all personnel, tools, and materials are clear of all equipment.
2. Confirm that all equipment components are operationally intact, including guards and safety
devices, before removing lockout devices and tags.
3. Remove each lockout device using the sequence required for the applicable equipment.
4. Confirm with all other personnel involved for final clearance before restoring power and
returning equipment to service.
Procedures involving more than one person
In the preceding steps, if more than one person will perform the same maintenance on the same piece
of equipment, then designate one person to remove the lockout when work is completed. If one piece
of equipment is to have different maintenance tasks preformed at the same time, but by different
crews, then separate lockout locks must be applied for each different maintenance crew. All crews must
communicate with the others if equipment needs any testing and when maintenance is done.
Communication is key!
Snow Valley Emergency Lift Evacuation Plan – updated 1/2012 –B. Keay and D. Morgan
27