They follow detailed manufacturer guidelines for inspection and safety, and many parks use outside specialty companies to periodically re-inspect rides. Parks are also subject to compliance with various governmental codes and requirements. Ride manufacturers also conduct industry-wide safety seminars on a regular basis. At most facilities, technicians begin inspecting rides long before those who will enjoy them are awake. The daily safety inspection of roller coasters can take longer than four hours.
Workers walk the tracks twice-once to check the left side and once to check the right side.
They look for loose bolts and track spikes, cracked wood and any other problem that may have occurred during the night. They inspect the lift chain and braking mechanisms and they inspect the cars for loose bolts, cracks or safety devices that need attention. Each day, the coaster is first sent around the track empty, then with technicians aboard. Technicians listen for changes in sounds the coaster makes-sounds which might signal a loose bolt or track spike. Monthly inspections are a more detailed look at the coaster's machinery and track.