International Ride Operator Certification

The International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) is the world’s only third-party certification of ride operators’ safety, efficiency, and professionalism.  It is based on standards of performance developed by IRT in consultation with leading attractions industry owners and operators around the globe.

iROC is a third-party certification that a facility’s ride operators are trained to the Ten Critical Component Standards of Performance and have demonstrated compliance with those standards through observation of performance during operation.  There are, therefore, two components to iROC certification:  training and performance.

iROC Training

“Training according to the iROC Ten Critical Components begins with licensed iROC Instructors.  Instructors generally obtain their license to administer the iROC program through attendance at the annual iROC “Ride Camp” – a four-day safety school devoted exclusively to ride operations safety.  Prospective instructors learn the standards of performance for each of the Ten Critical Components of Ride Operator Safety and learn how to effectively train those standards to ride operators at their home facility.  Instructors must demonstrate proficiency in both knowledge and practical training through videotaped teach-back sessions delivered to their peers at School and by passing a written instructor test. 

Once licensed, IRT authorizes iROC instructors to administer the iROC program at their home facility, by training in-house trainers on the fundamental principles of the Ten Critical Components, the iROC training philosophy, and how the Ten Critical Components fit into the operating procedures for any specific ride.  

iROC Instructors and Trainers certify front-line ride operators on these fundamental principles using iROC classroom training materials, videos, and testing (all provided online) as well as during on-site training at specific ride locations.”

Certification Audits

Just because training is completed, however, does not mean that certification of a facility’s operators as iROC-compliant is automatic. Rather, iROC ride operators must demonstrate proficiency in performing in accordance with the iROC Ten Critical Components.  This is accomplished through unannounced Certification Audits conducted by IRT-trained auditors.  IRT audits typically include twelve ride locations chosen at random to include a mix of ride types, from kiddie rides to the largest thrill rides and waterslides.  Ride Operator performance is assessed based on more than thirty audit criteria each ride cycle.