A Buyer’s Guide to Amusement Ride Suppliers Part 2: The Non-Negotiables of Safety & Quality

In Part 1 of our guide, we established the foundational checklist for vetting a potential amusement ride supplier: their industry experience, manufacturing capabilities, and product portfolio. These elements help you identify established and capable players in the market. Now, we must move from the “who” to the “how.” How does a manufacturer guarantee that their products are not just exciting, but fundamentally safe and built to last?

This second installment dives into the non-negotiable core of any reputable supplier: their unwavering commitment to safety, quality control, and the use of superior materials. These are not areas for compromise; they are the very bedrock upon which your park’s reputation and your visitors’ safety will rest.

1. Decoding International Safety Standards and Certifications

In a global marketplace, internationally recognized certifications are the universal language of quality and safety. They provide objective, third-party validation that a manufacturer adheres to rigorous standards. Any serious supplier must be able to provide clear documentation of their certifications.

What to look for:

• ISO 9001: This is a certification for Quality Management Systems. An ISO 9001-certified company like HOTFUN has proven processes in place for everything from design and development to production and service. It signifies a commitment to consistency, efficiency, and continuous improvement. It tells you the company is organized and serious about its procedures.
• CE Marking (Conformité Européenne): For clients in Europe or countries that follow European standards, the CE mark is essential. It signifies that a product has been assessed by the manufacturer and deemed to meet EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. For complex machinery like amusement rides, this often involves a notified body’s assessment, adding another layer of scrutiny.
• Other Regional Standards (TÜV, ASTM, etc.): A truly global supplier will have experience manufacturing rides that comply with various regional standards, such as those set by TÜV (a renowned German inspection and certification body) or ASTM International (for the North American market). Their ability to understand and build to these different codes demonstrates deep technical expertise.

Actionable Tip: Always ask for copies of these certificates. A transparent supplier will provide them without hesitation.

2. A Transparent, Multi-Stage Quality Control (QC) Process

Certifications are the result; the quality control process is the work that earns them. A supplier’s QC system should be a comprehensive, multi-stage process that is integrated into every step of production.

What a robust QC process looks like:

• Raw Material Inspection: Quality starts with the inputs. Before any manufacturing begins, all raw materials—from the grade of the steel to the density of the fiberglass and the specifications of motors and bearings—must be inspected and verified against standards.
• In-Process Inspections: Quality checks cannot wait until the end. Technicians should be performing inspections throughout the production cycle. This includes non-destructive testing (NDT) on critical welds, checking the precision of machined parts, and verifying assembly steps against the engineering blueprints.
• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT): This is one of the most critical stages. Before a ride is disassembled for shipping, it should be fully assembled at the factory. The manufacturer should then conduct a complete operational test run. This includes running the ride through its full cycle, testing all safety features (like harnesses, sensors, and emergency stops), and performing load tests. As a buyer, you should be invited to witness this FAT, either in person or via a detailed video recording.

3. The Critical Role of High-Quality Materials and Components

A ride is only as strong as its weakest link. A top-tier manufacturer invests in high-quality materials and components from reputable sources, understanding that this directly impacts the ride’s safety, longevity, and even its long-term visual appeal.

What to inquire about:

• Steel and Metalwork: Ask for the specifications of the steel used. It should be high-grade, national-standard structural steel. The quality of the welding and the anti-corrosion treatment (such as hot-dip galvanizing followed by multi-layer painting) is crucial for durability, especially in outdoor environments.
• Fiberglass and Finishes: The “skin” of the ride is what your visitors see and touch. The supplier should use high-quality fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) with a marine-grade gel coat to resist UV fading and weathering. The paint should be automotive-grade for a vibrant, long-lasting finish.
• Key Components: The heart and brain of a modern ride are its motor, gearbox, and electrical control system. Ask which brands are used for these critical components. The use of internationally recognized brands (such as Siemens, ABB, or SEW-Eurodrive) is a strong indicator of reliability and ease of maintenance.

Conclusion to Part 2

When you evaluate a supplier on their safety standards, quality control processes, and material choices, you are looking beyond the surface. You are assessing their core manufacturing philosophy. A supplier who invests heavily in these areas is a partner who is dedicated to protecting your business, delighting your guests, and delivering a product that will provide value for years to come.

In our final installment, “Part 3: The Partnership After the Purchase: Shipping, Installation, and Long-Term Support,” we will explore the crucial services that turn a one-time transaction into a lasting, successful partnership.