Child Sustains Moderate Injuries Following Eighteen Foot Fall from Chairlift

Location: Lower Mainland
Regulated industry sector: Passenger ropeways - Above surface ropeway

Incident Overview

An 8-year-old passenger fell over 18 feet from a chairlift, sustaining moderate injuries. The passenger fell into deep, untouched snow just after the second tower. The incident occurred after four passengers loaded the chair and put the restraining bar down; one passenger was improperly seated and sat on top of their ski poles. After attempting to adjust their position and free their poles, they slipped off the carrier seat.

The load attendant was alone at the load point, making it challenging to assist all passengers loading. Attendants should assist all child and novice passengers and continuously look uphill to ensure passenger safety.