PARASAILING FATALITIES SPARK NEW ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

by jeasson jea businessman

For more than 30 years people have experienced the visceral sensation of flying via parasail. Whether by harness or gondola, nearly 150 million people have been sky high, hovering above the vast, unconditional bodies of water that encompass Earth.

Parasailing is a bitter sweet activity though, although the sport has been around for decades commercial businesses have remained largely unregulated in their practices.

This mismanagement of the multitudes of startup parasailing operations has led to more than 1,676 preventable injuries and 76 fatalities. The authorities leave the quality control of equipment by the way side and the adherence to industry standards to the discretion of the business in operation. With no enforcement in place this discretion is in some cases, sadly lacking.

After a number of extreme incidents during 2013 the US Ocean Sports Association is stepping in the right direction and they have developed an annual accreditation program that not only ensures the credibility of the parasailing establishment but also provides realistic guidelines applicable to improving business to customer safety.

The USOSA parasailing certification is designed to promote the reduction of injuries and fatalities that can occur when passenger support systems fail as well as the inability to escape from the passenger support system during emergency water landings.

What’s valuable about the USOSA seal of approval is the creation of undeniable transparency between businesses, customers and USOSA. Applicable guidelines would be established from the top down, this would in turn enhance the user experience and safety. Every 6 months equipment inspections are made by USOSA and their governing body, to ensure the equipment used in the day-to-day operations of a particular business retains its structural integrity. If standards aren’t met accordingly during an inspection, USOSA has the right to revoke the accreditation at any time.

Parasailing is a massive tourist attraction all over the world. It is certainly a must do activity when enjoying a coastal vacation anywhere in the world. Whether that vacation is in Miami, on the Gold Coast or cruising around the Caribbean. The credibility of both domestic and foreign parasailing businesses is on the rise, with help from the accreditation of USOSA.

About US Ocean Sports

This is where you put a mini-biography of your business. How long you’ve been open, why you started, your place in the community, etc. Keep it short and simple.

To learn more about us please visit www.usoceansports.com

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