Logbook and test report: some reflections

Logbook and test report: some reflections

26 October 2020 Off By Facto Edizioni

/ by Aldo Avancini /

Aldo Avancini this month looks at 2 documents of the utmost importance for a ride /

Ing. Aldo Avancini / Proposta Srl

In one of my previous articles, I referred to the documents required today by local councils for operating a ride at fun fairs, documents that include the logbook and a test report signed by a trained and qualified person, with proven experience in the typical issues concerning rides. 

These 2 documents are actually interrelated; that is, the test report provides a snapshot of a measured (positive) situation, with the possibility to add notes, observations, requirements, while the logbook tells the story of the events that have occurred in the life of the ride.

In a cycling race, the test report could be compared to the result of each stage, while the commentator who describes the main events of the stage would represent the logbook. So the test report is basically a static snapshot taken at a defined interval, while the logbook can be considered as showing the dynamics of the ride. 

Considering that the concept of testing is sufficiently clear, I would now like to focus on the latter. We can first of all state that the manufacturer is required to define a maintenance schedule, which is a substantial part of the manual, and a list of spare parts, detailing the manufacturer of each (or its local representative for imported parts or components). On this point I can say that to date, in my opinion, manufacturers have achieved excellent levels of documentation. 

Slightly less well known is the fact that in the logbook, testing personnel may have added extra checks or increased the frequency of checks respect to that described in the manual, believing that for specific reasons certain additional checks need to be implemented. Therefore, the testing personnel do not replace the manufacturer, but rather assist operators in ensuring guests better comfort and a more satisfying experience, while preserving and guaranteeing the level of safety envisaged in the design of the ride. The logbook must therefore include additional pages for describing any extra operations, obviously all done with a good dose of common sense! Reporting the replacement of a light bulb in an internal file does not change the ride (purists will say “as long as power is disconnected from the panel”!), while the replacement of a component needs to be recorded in the logbook, perhaps including the ride’s documentation (the office copies), a copy of the order to the supplier and delivery note, complete with details of who actually carried out the work (and their training).  

With reference to electrical components, replacements are more problematic, especially in the case of mobile rides, where quite often there are components declared as being “similar”! In this regard, I would like to ask readers to reflect on how more than a handful of aircraft have crashed due to the use of screws or components with “similar” performance to the originals.

Over the life of a ride, more or less substantial improvements may be made, for example allowing use by a wider range of guests, typically adding or modifying details that allow greater usability for disabled people or to guests outside of the initial age, height or weight requirements.

After (appropriate) verification with the manufacturer, I therefore stress the need to update not only the logbook and test report (which is normally done), but also the park’s internal procedures. Furthermore and above all, it will be necessary to inform and train employees and operators, as well as obviously maintenance personnel.

Taken from Games&Parks Industry October 2020, page 84

Ing. Aldo Avancini /  Proposta Srl / proposta_design@yahoo.it

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